Is that a beer glass or a golden turd? That question often pops up when people see the Asahi Beer Hall for the first time. It stands proudly on the east bank of the Sumida River. The Asahi Beer Hall is part of the Asahi Breweries headquarters in Sumida, Tokyo.
Designed by Philippe Starck, it was completed in 1989. It is now one of Tokyo’s most recognizable modern structures. The building is shaped like a beer glass. This complements the beer mug-shaped building next door. That building houses the Asahi Breweries offices.
The Asahi Flame sits atop the hall. It is a giant golden structure. It represents the burning heart of Asahi beer. It also looks like a frothy head. Shipbuilders made the 360-tonne flame using submarine techniques. The flame is hollow inside.
Locals sometimes call the Asahi Flame the “golden turd”. They also call the Asahi Beer Hall itself the “poo building”. Despite these nicknames, the Asahi Beer Hall is a must-see.
The building’s shiny black exterior catches the eye. It is covered in polished black granite. Small porthole windows are almost invisible from afar. The walls curve gently outward. This creates a pedestal for the golden flame.
The flame looms over the Sumida River. It gleams in the day and night. The designer often uses this shape in his work. It appears in sconces or door handles. This is the first time Starck used it on such a large scale.
Glass blocks make up an illuminated staircase at the building’s base. It has a glamorous look. It invites people to enter. A curving gold panel marks the main entrance.
Inside, you will find a fantasy space. Gray velvet covers the curving walls. Velvet ropes are inlaid. Twisting columns resemble human forms. An angular staircase adds to the otherworldly atmosphere.
The second floor has private dining rooms. These rooms have velvet-covered chairs. Blue glass sconces decorate the walls. Fabric creates a silent atmosphere.
The fourth floor once hosted a discount clothing store. It seemed out of place amid the splendor. The beer hall stands in Tokyo’s Shitamachi area. This area has seen better days.
The Asahi Beer Hall serves beer straight from the factory. It is a three-minute walk from Asakusa Station. It sits on the opposite side of the Sumida River. So come explore this unusual building. Its flashy style contrasts with Tokyo’s gray buildings. It has truly become a landmark.