Old Ministry of Justice Building, Baroque revival government building in Kasumigaseki, Japan
The Old Ministry of Justice Building is a three-story red brick structure in Kasumigaseki with symmetrical facades and ornate stone decorations. A triangular pediment crowns the central entrance, and reinforced brick walls form the foundation of the entire structure.
German architects Hermann Ende and Wilhelm Böckmann designed this building in 1895 during Japan's Meiji modernization period. It survived the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake with minimal damage but later sustained fire damage during the Second World War.
The building shows how Japan looked to Europe for design ideas while keeping its own administrative traditions. You can see this blend in the ornate stonework and the way the interior spaces are organized.
The building is located near Sakuradamon Station and is within easy walking distance from the train stop. Visitor access may be limited to certain hours, so it is best to check conditions before planning your visit.
The building survived the 1923 earthquake thanks to its reinforced brick construction, an early example of seismic engineering in Japan. This resilience made it a notable example of how structures could be designed to withstand such natural forces.
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