The building was built in 1917 in the German architectural style as a branch of the shipping company Osaka Shosen.
It was once called “the beauty of the harbor” because of its beautiful exterior with orange tiles and white stone strips in harmony.
One of its features is the elaborate design down to the smallest detail, such as the octagonal tower with a three-dimensional geometric pattern.
The building was partially restored by the city of Kitakyushu, which became the new owner in 1994.
There is a gallery, a general store, and a café on the first floor.
