Since its construction in 1918, the red brick Osaka City Central Public Hall with its bronze dome, has become a symbol of the city itself. Built in the neo-Renaissance style, the public hall was designed for all the citizens of the city as a place for artistic, cultural, and social events. The ¥1 million construction cost was covered entirely by Einosuke Iwamoto, a wealthy stockbroker.
The two original designers, Shinichiro Okada and Kingo Tatsuno, were leading figures in the architectural world of the Meiji period. A third architect, Yasushi Kataoka was brought on to complete the final design. The three collectively completed the project and are now widely are considered to be among the most famous and respected of the Meiji period which lasted from 1868 to 1912.
In 2002, a complete restoration was undertaken and the original appearance was restored. As well as much needed updates to the building, a thorough cleaning of every inch was undertaken. During the restoration, the stained glass windows and the ceiling painting were completely cleaned refurbished where needed for the first time their more than 80 years.
Osaka City Central Public Hall Facts
- Market hours are 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
- The Hall was built in 1918 at a cost of ¥1 million.
- The hall has been visited by notable figures including social activist Helen Keller and Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin.
- The hall is used regularly for special events, lectures, and live music.
- The address is 530-0005 1-1-27 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka
- The hall is closed on the fourth Tuesday every month (Wednesday if Tuesday is a holiday).
- The hall is also closed from Dec 28 to Jan 4.
- It was designated an “Important Cultural Property of Japan” in 2002.
- While the Osaka City Central Public Hall is free to enter, guided tours are not.
