Sengakuji TokyoA proposal for an 8-storey apartment building next to the entrance to the historic Sengaku-ji Temple in Minato-ku has drawn criticism and opposition from residents due to the potential impact it will have on the landscape and character of the area.

The site in question is located next to the temple’s Chu-mon gate. A 3-storey house is being demolished to make way for a 23m tall 8-storey apartment building which will contain mostly studio apartments. The land had been purchased by a Minato-ku based developer and construction is scheduled to start in mid-September.

After being notified of the building plans, residents formed a group with the aim of protecting the surroundings of the cultural and historical landmark. They have started a petition and have already collected signatures from locals as well as foreign visitors from over 36 countries.

The temple is surrounded mostly by 3-storey buildings and homes. According to the construction department in the Minato City Office, the development proposal complies with local regulations.

Sengaku-ji is a buddhist temple that was originally established in 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Daimyo Asano Naganori (1667 – 1701) and his retainers – the forty-seven Ronin – are interred in the temple grounds.

Source: The Tokyo Shimbun, September 8, 2014.

 

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