Closer to Heaven ( part 1 )

Architecture in harmony with the natural landscape in Tokamachi, Niigata, Japan.

Tokamachi City is located in the southern part of Niigata Prefecture in northern Japan, just two and a half hours by train from Tokyo. It is part of an area nicknamed “Snow Country” –

a reference to the massive amounts of snow that blanket the region in winter.

Setting foot in this magical land right in the heart of winter was an absolutely incredible experience.

An over-400-year-old house near Matsudai Station, this wonderful place wasn’t even part of our travel itinerary. When we stepped inside, the warmth from the traditional wood-burning stove, the scent of timber, papered walls, and Tatami mats deeply warmed our hearts.

Along the railway tracks, countless picturesque scenes unfolded before my eyes, each one evoking a sense of poetic beauty. The tiny homes nestled quietly against the majestic backdrop of mountains and towering pine forests. I never imagined that these landscapes would etch themselves so deeply into my memory forever.

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The place where we work every day is also an iconic structure.

Kimono Brain is considered a source of pride for Tokamachi City, the city's meaningful contributions to the local community.

This architectural landmark carries multiple missions within itself. In terms of design, it boasts a floor area of over 3,000 square meters, constructed with a modern steel frame structure. It's a large-scale building, easily visible from afar—and up close, its magnitude strikes in a distinct and impressive way.

The facility resembles a museum more than a factory, and with good reason. Each working day here, we welcome numerous visiting groups. The hallways are designed with glass partitions and one-way walkways, allowing visitors to observe the drawing and fabric processing stages of Kimono production.

Guided by the motto: " Always striving each day to become a company the local community can be proud of " , we work with purpose and pride.

This iconic building features a sloped roof that complements the climate, allowing it to harmonize beautifully with the surrounding landscape.

New Kimono Brain Factory in 2016 designed by Kishida Architectural Design Office Co., Ltd.

https://karc.jp/