NEWS
University Hall has been Designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property
Update: November 28, 2025
On November 21, 2025, ICU's University Hall was recommended to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property (Structure).
The University Hall was constructed in 1944 as the main research building of Mitaka Research Institute of the former Nakajima Aircraft Company (now SUBARU), which developed and manufactured military aircraft. It is historically significant that it was born again as the building that would nurture education and peace. Since 1953, it has been cherished by all students, faculty, staff, and alumni from the first graduating class to the present day as a symbolic place of learning of the university.
The building was originally constructed during the war as a large-scale reinforced concrete structure (3 stories, 1 basement) despite building restrictions and materials control. A renovation by the Vories Architectural Office in 1953 added a fourth story, resulting in a refined exterior that further emphasized the symmetry of the central hall and the east and west wings. Details that convey a sense of solidity and softness were incorporated into both the interior and exterior finishes. A major renovation carried out from 2024 to 2025 included: 1) Updating interiors and fixtures to preserve the value of modern architecture for posterity; 2) Seismic reinforcement to fully meet the required standards for school facilities, ensuring student safety; and 3) Upgrading facilities to create a more comfortable environment for student life.
Based on the above, the building has been evaluated as possessing the value of a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property (国登録有形文化財). This is the third kind for ICU, following Taizansō (1999) and the Diffendorfer Memorial Hall (East Wing) (2022).
Today, the University Hall continues to be used for classes and serves as a place for dialogue between students and faculty.
Facility Overview
| Date/Phase | 1944 (79 years since construction) | 1953 (Renovation and Extension) | 2025 (Renovation) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Designer | Okura Doboku Design Department | Vories Architectural Office | Taisei Corporation |
| Contractor | Okura Doboku | Taisei Corporation | Taisei Corporation |
| Scale | 1 basement, 4 stories |
|---|---|
| Building Area | 2,828.91㎡ |
| Maximum Height | 7.5m |
| Structure | Reinforced Concrete (RC) |
History
1941 Construction started as the main research building of Mitaka Research Institute of Nakajima Aircraft Company (now SUBARU).
1950 All property transferred to ICU. Decision made to renovate the Research Building into the University Hall.
1953 Renovation by Vories Architectural Office.
1981 Seismic diagnosis and seismic reinforcement work.
2003-2005 Exterior wall renovation work (Taisei Corporation).
2013 Seismic retrofitting work (Taisei Corporation, etc.).
2025 University Hall Renovation Project (Taisei Corporation, etc.).
1944 Main research building of Mitaka Research Institute of Nakajima Aircraft Company
1953 At the time of the university's founding
A Lounge on each floor.
Tatami stage for diverse learning and exchange
Note: In principle, general public entry onto the campus is prohibited. Those wishing to conduct interviews or coverage should contact the Public Relations Office in advance.
