Tourist attraction • 1-chōme-13-2 Kabukichō, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan
Located in the heart of Tokyo, in a corner of Shinjuku ward, is Kabukicho. Behind the neon lights and bustling streets, there used to be a mysterious space with a different face. That's the "Oshiro Building".
Completed in 1964, the Oshiro Building has long served as cabarets and restaurants. However, after closing in 2020, its interior underwent a drastic change. The walls and ceilings were stripped, turning it into a "desolate building". But this exposed look actually exudes a unique sense of nostalgia and novelty.
Today, the Oshiro Building shines as a venue for artists and creators to showcase their works. Various events such as NIKE's new sneaker launch and music live shows are held here. The decadent atmosphere emanating from the exposed structure provides a kind of artistic experience akin to raw art brut.
The statue of Benten-sama unearthed during the renovation process is evidence that a river called Kanigawa once flowed in this area. It is also said that before the development, there were many snakes here. Even in the midst of the city, it evokes the fragrance of the area's history and culture.
The Oshiro Building is a space filled with the charm of Tokyo, where the ancient past and cutting-edge modernity intersect. What new encounters await next? Travelers, why not experience this extraordinary space at least once?