Tiger Building

Tiger Building: A Showa-Era Treasure in the Heart of Kuramae

Standing proudly on Kokusai-dori (International Avenue) in the Kuramae district of Taito Ward, Tokyo, Tiger Building (タイガービルヂング) is a remarkable five-story reinforced concrete structure dating back to 1934. As the oldest surviving building in Taito Ward, it has witnessed nearly a century of Tokyo's dramatic transformation — from the devastation of war to the vibrant urban renewal that defines the city today. Designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan, Tiger Building is a living testament to early Showa-era architecture and the resilience of Tokyo's built heritage.

Historical Background

Tiger Building was constructed in 1934 (Showa 9) during a period of intense reconstruction following the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. The earthquake and its aftermath devastated much of Tokyo, prompting a massive rebuilding effort that emphasized fire-resistant reinforced concrete construction. Tiger Building is one of the finest surviving examples of this post-earthquake reconstruction era, known in Japanese as shinsai fukko kenchiku (震災復興建築).

Originally designed as a luxury rental apartment building — notably equipped with an elevator, a considerable luxury at the time — Tiger Building catered to affluent residents seeking modern, Western-influenced urban living. The building survived the devastating Tokyo air raids of 1945 (東京大空襲), emerging from the firestorms that engulfed much of the surrounding area. This remarkable survival makes it not only the oldest building in Taito Ward but also a poignant reminder of the neighborhood's wartime history.

In 1955, the building underwent renovation, after which it transitioned from residential use to a commercial tenant building, a role it continues to fulfill today. The building is owned and maintained by Tiger Building Co., Ltd. (タイガービルヂング株式会社).

Why It Was Designated a Cultural Property

Tiger Building was registered as a Tangible Cultural Property (Registered Cultural Property — Building) on March 7, 2008. The registration was granted under the criterion of being "a model of design and construction" (zokei no kihan to natte iru mono), recognizing its significance as an exemplary work of early Showa-era reinforced concrete architecture.

The building employs a rahmen (rigid frame) structural system, which was an advanced engineering technique for Japan in the early 1930s. This construction method provides valuable insight into the development of reinforced concrete technology during a pivotal period in Japanese architectural history. The building's survival through natural disasters and wartime bombing further enhances its historical and cultural value.

Architectural Highlights

Tiger Building's exterior presents a striking combination of functional modernism and decorative elegance characteristic of early Showa architecture. The facade is clad in scratch tiles (sukuracchi tairu), a textured tile finish that was widely popular in Japanese buildings of the 1920s and 1930s. The warm, earthy tones and tactile surface of the scratch tiles lend the building a distinguished and timeless appearance.

Two circular porthole-style windows (marumado) are set into the corners of the front facade, adding a nautical-inspired decorative touch that was fashionable in Art Deco-influenced Japanese architecture of the era. At the top of the exterior walls, ornamental relief carvings provide a refined finishing detail, demonstrating the care and craftsmanship that went into even commercial buildings of the period.

The building stands five stories above ground with one basement level and features two rooftop tower structures (toya). With a building footprint of 301 square meters, it remains an imposing presence on the Kokusai-dori streetscape, facing east toward the avenue.

Visiting Tiger Building

Tiger Building is located in the Kuramae district, one of Tokyo's most charming and increasingly fashionable neighborhoods. While the building currently operates as a commercial tenant building with offices and studios, its exterior can be freely admired from the street. The scratch tile facade, circular windows, and rooftop relief decorations are all visible from Kokusai-dori.

The Kuramae neighborhood itself — often called "Tokyo's Brooklyn" — is well worth exploring. The area is renowned for its artisanal craft shops, specialty cafes, and creative studios housed in renovated historic buildings. A visit to Tiger Building pairs naturally with a stroll through the surrounding streets, where old-world charm meets contemporary creativity.

Nearby Attractions

The Kuramae area offers a wealth of experiences within easy walking distance of Tiger Building:

• Kuramae Shrine (藏前神社) — A historic Shinto shrine with roots stretching back to the Edo period, located just a short walk from the building.
• Dandelion Chocolate Factory & Cafe — The San Francisco-based bean-to-bar chocolate maker's first overseas location, offering factory tours and artisan chocolate drinks.
• Kakimori — A beloved stationery shop where visitors can create custom-made notebooks and experience the art of Japanese papercraft.
• Senso-ji Temple — Tokyo's oldest and most famous Buddhist temple is just a 15-minute walk away in neighboring Asakusa.
• Sumida River Promenade — A scenic riverside walk offering views of Tokyo Skytree and the historic bridges that span the Sumida River.