A location home to many corporations listed on the first section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, Marunouchi attracts the finest goods from around the world. Let us show you the best of Marunouchi.
Strolling through the Marunouchi and Shin-Marunouchi Buildings, you'll pass all kinds of people in the chairs and sofas strategically placed in public areas. Outside, irresistible benches await in cozy spots along Marunouchi Naka-dori Avenue. The lush green Ichigokan Square in Marunouchi Brick Square is always alive with happily chattering ladies, giving in to a tempting respite on their way home from a museum visit. Marunouchi is clearly overflowing with soothing spaces.
We asked Marunouchi businesspersons as well as frequent visitors to reveal their favorite spots for rejuvenation.
Recommended by: René Martin (Artistic Director, La Folle Journée)
Bright light flows into the spacious Marucube, making this airy multi-purpose space on the first floor of Marunouchi Building René Martin's all-time favorite.
''My first chance to explore the town of Marunouchi was during a trip to Japan to preview the Tokyo International Forum, venue of Tokyo's first La Folle Journée, held in 2005. I appreciated how perfect this town was for a music festival. Classical music makes a wonderful impact on a city. I say this because the soul of a town is deeply connected to culture. When I think of Marunouchi, its array of marvelous architecture is the first thing that comes to mind. Another characteristic differentiating Marunouchi from other Tokyo communities is the value placed on peace and quiet. The abundance of greenery, the cleanliness…there are just so many charming aspects of this town. I simply love this town! Just sitting here encourages one's imagination to take flight.''
Recommended by: Junjiro Sato (An office worker in Marunouchi)
With its European flair, Ichigokan Square is truly an oasis in the mélange of Marunouchi business buildings.
''My first venture into Ichigokan Square was to buy financier cakes at Échiré, per my wife's request. Sitting on a bench, luxuriating in the classic brick architecture and abundant greenery, the pleasant breeze billowing through the cozy square both exhilarated and calmed me.Of course, there are plenty of posh cafes and eateries where one can pay to relax in luxury, but what can surpass a brief respite on one of the many benches here at no cost? When all of the benches are occupied, I usually sit on the stone rim of the plaza fountain.''
Recommended by: Takei E. Sakae (Illustrator)
Marunouchi House, on the seventh floor of the Shin-Marunouchi Building, is a rather avant-garde space, a town unto itself. You can enjoy a sweeping view of Marunouchi from the open-air terrace.
''I visit Marunouchi nearly every month on assignment. I now know the ins and outs of the area and have favorite spots, but this open terrace trumps them all. You can lose yourself here, forgetting you're in the midst of a metropolis. I just love it.
When Marunouchi House hosts club events, it turns into the hippest spot for adults in the city. It's fun to watch all that action from the terrace!''
Recommended by: Seiko Fukuda (President and CEO, To-on Kikaku Co., Ltd.)
The 35th floor of the Marunouchi Building features an atrium that rises clear to the 36th floor. A popular venue for classical concerts and other events, it is a wonderful spot not only for patrons of in-house restaurants, but also for Marunouchi Building sightseers.
''As To-on Kikaku manages the atrium's regular classical concerts, I was often on site. Enjoying live performances while taking in the amazing view in this liberating space was the ultimate luxury!
Even now, before dining at my favorite restaurants on the 35th floor, I take time to lounge on the sofa, gaze at the stellar view, and let the mood refresh my senses.''
Recommended by: Hiroyuki Hasegawa
(Director, PCP Marunouchi Dental Clinic)
Marunouchi Naka-dori Avenue's sculptures and hanging baskets create a dramatic backdrop for the Marunouchi neighborhood. Joining them are the benches, which are magically located just where one feels the need for a breather!
''My life is so hectic that I can hardly find a moment to stroll around Marunouchi. Yet while I am running errands, the particular spot that really pulls me in is Ichigokan Square. It is especially nice to walk down Marunouchi Naka-dori Avenue when the beautiful greenery is in top seasonal form. No other neighborhood fuses with nature like this-the atmosphere creates the perfect promenade. With benches placed in just the right spots, a brief rest rejuvenates you for the remainder of the day.''
PHOTO: Eiji Ogata, Yasuyuki Noji
| CATEGORY : City | TAG : CITY,Welcome to Marunouchi |  |
A location home to many corporations listed on the first section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, Marunouchi attracts the finest goods from around the world. Let us show you the best of Marunouchi.
We asked Marunouchi entrepreneurs how their ventures materialized.
The Marunouchi area has more than 300 restaurants. This month we report on Bistro Double, which just opened in March 2012.
The best information on how to enjoy Marunouchi nights to their fullest.
