Meidi-ya Building, Osaka

This modern structure in Osaka was initially built for housing the Meidiya Store. It was one of the first disaster proof modern buildings in Osaka.

The Meidi-ya Building was constructed for the Meidi-ya food retail company and was completed in 1924. It has a neo- renaissance style and was designed by the architecture firm Sone Chujo. It was the first structure in Osaka where lighting, ventilation and disaster prevention were taken into consideration when drawing up the plans. The Great Kanto Earthquake struck and damaged many buildings in the city one month after construction began. The far seeing contractor replaced the existing metal construction components with heavy duty disaster proof components manufactured by the US Company called Bethlehem Steel. When it opened its doors, it was one of the tallest buildings in Osaka with 7 floors.

When the building was inaugurated, the Meidi-ya Store occupied the first floor. It was Japan’s first retailer of imported food and liquor. Space in the 4th and 5th floors were leased to major offices and the 6th and 7th floors were occupied by Chuo Tei, a high end restaurant serving local delicacies and European cuisine. Today a convenience store called Lawson occupies the space where the Meidi-ya store was located. Lawson has served customers since the year 2006.