#Japan #Tokyo #Komatsu Wall #Seiko House #Yusuke Matsumoto

Discovering 150 Years of Ginza's Architectural Evolution

In July, the renowned architectural historian Yusuke Matsumoto will hold a seminar focusing on the architectural journey of Ginza, one of Tokyo's most iconic districts. This seminar, organized by Komatsu Wall Co., will take place on July 27, 2026, offering participants a unique opportunity to explore the historical transformation of Ginza over the last 150 years. Following the seminar, a special guided tour of the legendary SEIKO HOUSE (formerly known as the Wako Main Building) will be available.

The theme for this second session of the “Architecture Seminar 2026” is inspired by the intersections of modern architecture and Japan’s modernization. The seminar intends to shed light on Ginza 4-chome, a vibrant area that continues to evolve and thrive. With the backdrop of substantial historical events such as the Great Ginza Fire in 1872, participants will gain insights into how the area transitioned from a brick town to a pulsating commercial hub that remains appealing today.

The Historical Evolution of Ginza 4-Chome

The 4-chome intersection in Ginza, with its famous SEIKO HOUSE clock tower, symbolizes Tokyo’s commercial spirit. This seminar will visually depict the history of the buildings that have stood in this area from the time of the Great Ginza Fire to our present day. Attendees will be exposed to rare archival photos, documents, and other materials that highlight the architectural changes and businesses that have thrived here over the years.

By exploring the historical precedents leading to the current landscape, we will engage in discussions about the future of Ginza’s architecture and what legacies should be preserved or challenged.

Following the seminar, participants will have the chance to delve deeper into the architectural narrative with an exclusive tour of SEIKO HOUSE on July 29, 2026. Participants will step inside this renowned structure to experience its historical essence firsthand, allowing them to appreciate its architecture that cannot be captured in literature alone. This immersive experience serves as a reminder of the weighty history and rich narrative embedded within its walls.

About Yusuke Matsumoto

Yusuke Matsumoto is a distinguished architectural historian currently studying architecture on a doctoral level at the University of Tokyo. With over 10 years dedicated to researching Japanese architectural history, Matsumoto has worked with prominent architecture firms before establishing his own practice focusing on residential and healthcare design.
Additionally, he is an instructor for architectural history courses in various municipalities and leads public walking tours of historical buildings, drawing on over 20 years of experience.

Event Details

Seminar

• - Date: July 27, 2026
• - Time: 18:30 – 20:30 (Registration opens at 18:00)
• - Location: Komatsu Wall Co. 101 TOKYO SHOWROOM / Online broadcast
• - Capacity: 50 participants in-person / Unlimited online participants
• - Cost: Free

Guided Tour

• - Date: July 29, 2026
• - Time: 14:00 – 16:00 (Registration opens at 13:45)
• - Location: SEIKO HOUSE (formerly known as Wako Main Building), 4-5-11 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo
• - Capacity: 16 participants (exclusive to seminar attendees; selection will be via lottery in case of oversubscription)
• - Application Deadline for Tour: July 15, 2026
• - Application Form: here

Please note that media presence for interviews or filming at the event will be restricted due to facility management and confidentiality concerns. We appreciate your understanding regarding the lack of official materials related to this event.

About Komatsu Wall Co.

Founded in 1968, Komatsu Wall specializes in creating comfortable and secure spaces through the design, manufacturing, and installation of movable partitions and restroom stalls. Their mission is to create value in society through spatial solutions, constantly adapting to the needs of the times.