Wow. Look at the Japan Center. It’s a sprawling complex isn’t it? Imagine this was once just empty land. Before the Japan Center stood here thousands of people lived here. The San Francisco Redevelopment Agency took their homes. This was part of a large project called the Western Addition Project. The Japan Center was built in 1968. It was initially called the Japanese Cultural and Trade Center. The project was spearheaded by M Justin Herman. He wanted to preserve San Francisco’s unique cultural values. Mayor Joseph Alioto dedicated the mall at its opening.
Early tenants included major Japanese companies like Hitachi Nissan and Mitsubishi. They showcased their cars and electronics. Kikkoman International was also there. The 15-story Miyako Hotel was a prominent feature. Books Kinokuniya a bookstore that remains a landmark today opened then as well. The name changed to Japan Center by 1970. By the mid-1970s retailers replaced many manufacturers. Consumers were already familiar with Japanese products.
The Japan Center occupies five acres of land. It cost fifteen million dollars to build. Architect Minoru Yamasaki’s design is often described as Brutalist. Van Bourg/Nakamura were involved in the design. They incorporated modern elements with traditional Japanese features. The interior was designed by Takenaka & Associates of Osaka. It aims to evoke the feeling of narrow Japanese streets. Decorative tile roofs and pillars create this atmosphere. Large public areas with natural light are also features. The construction of the Bridge of Shops used steel from U.S. Steel. The Peace Pagoda sits within the Japan Center. It was originally designed by Yoshiro Taniguchi. Kenji Murakami later updated the plaza. Mayor Willie Brown rededicated the Peace Plaza in 2003.
The Japan Center has faced challenges in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic hit businesses hard. Some reported significant financial losses. The ownership of the buildings is divided among several entities. Fuki-ya restaurant claims to have been the first Robatayaki restaurant in the United States. The Miyako Hotel originally occupied the 15-story tower. A four-story building nearby housing the Consulate General of Japan was later incorporated into the hotel property.
So there you have it a brief history of the Japan Center. A place built on ambition faced with hardship but still standing strong in the heart of San Francisco’s Japantown. Isn’t it impressive?