Tokyo Station: Five Interesting Facts!

Tokyo Station is a beautiful blend of Western and Japanese architecture from the Meiji Period. Today, discover its fascinating history, secret tunnels, and cultural treasures!

What does it look like?

Tokyo Station was designed during the Meiji Period to support Japan’s industrialization. Initially designed by German engineers, the station’s final design was created by Japanese architect Tatsuno Kingo. Tatsuno also introduced a unique blend of Western and Japanese styles, now known as the “Tatsuno Renaissance” style. The station, featuring a red brick facade and domes, opened in 1914, quickly becoming vital to Tokyo’s infrastructure.

Despite its magnificence, Tokyo Station faced several challenges. It withstood the Great Kantō earthquake, which caused minimal damage, allowing it to serve as a temporary shelter. However, the station suffered damage from air raids, destroying much of the roof and interior. Reconstruction efforts saw the station rebuilt after the war, though only two of the original three floors were restored for safety reasons.

What inspired the station’s design?

There are rumors that Amsterdam Central Station inspired Tokyo Station’s design in the Netherlands. The station’s red-brick appearance and certain architectural elements resemble the Dutch structure. The nearby Yaesu district, named after Dutch translator Jan Joosten, who resided there, may have influenced Tatsuno’s design. Tokyo even has sister-station agreements with its Dutch lookalike and Grand Central Terminal in New York.

Another fascinating aspect of Tokyo Station is its network of secret tunnels. The oldest tunnels, restored in the 2012 makeover, link the station with the Central Post Office. Passengers can access six neighboring stations through these walkways. Initially thought to be bomb shelters, these tunnels offer protection against natural disasters, making Tokyo Station one of the safest places during earthquakes.

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Does the Imperial Family use Tokyo Station?

Tokyo Station’s historical significance extends to its role as the entrance for the imperial family’s travels. In years gone by, people made elaborate preparations. Security measures, such as discreet vehicle numbers and bulletproof glass on imperial trains, were arranged for the safety of the royal passengers. These arrangements showed the importance of the imperial family and the station’s status as a ceremonial gateway to Japan’s capital.

Within the station were once exclusive spaces reserved for royalty and distinguished guests. A central octagonal hall welcomed visitors with waiting rooms and artwork depicting Japan’s industrial skills. Separate quarters were opened for Imperial Princes, Princesses, and His Majesty the Emperor. These regal accommodations serve as a reminder of the station’s role as a symbol of hospitality and tradition.

Tokyo Station Gallery and Tokyo Station Hotel

In 1988, the Tokyo Station Gallery transformed Tokyo Station from a transit point to a cultural hub. The gallery reopened in 2012, restored to its original early 20th-century appearance. The gallery focuses on modern art and hosts exhibitions ranging from contemporary art to architecture, design, and railways. The brick-walled exhibition rooms provide a historical atmosphere, making the gallery a significant cultural attraction.

The Tokyo Station Hotel opened in 1915 and is a historical landmark with luxurious accommodations and unparalleled hospitality. After extensive restoration work, the hotel reopened in 2012 in a classic European style. It features unique accommodations, ensuring an unforgettable business or leisure guests stay. The hotel is famous for its exceptional service and has received numerous prestigious awards.

The First Shinkansen and Tokyo Station

The first shinkansen debuted on October 1, 1964, just in time for the Tokyo Olympic Games. This groundbreaking high-speed rail line connected Tokyo and Osaka, drastically reducing travel time from six-and-a-half hours to three hours and 10 minutes. Known as the “super-express of dreams” or “yume no chotokkyu,” it symbolized Japan’s rapid technological advancement and post-war recovery.

The Japan National Railways (JNR) spearheaded the shinkansen’s development with Shinji Sogo, whose team was affectionately called “the crazy gang” due to their ambitious vision. The Series 0 shinkansen trains were launched just nine days before the Tokyo Olympics, marking the beginning of a new era in rail travel. Overall, the shinkansen symbolized Japan’s technological skill and revolutionized travel.

Tokyo Station is the result of Japan’s rich history and architectural skills. Its blend of Western and Japanese styles makes it a must-visit destination for travelers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether gazing at its iconic red-brick exterior, exploring its tunnels, or enjoying time at the gallery and hotel, Tokyo Station is an experience that captures the essence of Japan’s past and present as the trains continue to come and go as they have done for so long. Have you ever been to this station before? Did you know about these facts? Let us know in the comments below!