teamMerlin are visiting Japan and we have been exploring via the railway network. As we wind up this particular tour we are holding a SideTracked event at Marunouchi Station Plaza which is located on the west side of Tokyo Station.
Location: outside Tokyo Station Marunouchi Honya (Main Building) in the Marunouchi Station Plaza
Date: Saturday 8th November 2025
Time: 16:30-17:00
JR東京駅 (JR Tokyo Station) By ノボホショコロトソ - Own work, CC BY 4.0, Link
Tokyo Station: A Timeless Landmark of Japan’s Capital
Tokyo Station, Japan’s largest and busiest railway terminal, has long served as the grand gateway to the nation’s capital. Beyond its role as a major transport hub—with 22 JR East train lines and the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line converging here—it stands as one of Tokyo’s most treasured architectural and historical landmarks.
The station first opened in 1914 (Taisho 3), marking a turning point in Japan’s modern transportation network. It was built in response to the plan to link Shimbashi and Ueno by an elevated railway. The design was entrusted to Tatsuno Kingo, one of Japan’s most celebrated architects, best known for the Bank of Japan’s head office.
The Marunouchi side of the station, crafted in striking red brick, is officially known as the Tokyo Station Marunouchi Honya (Main Building). Its grand, Renaissance-style façade evokes early 20th-century European design and reflects Japan’s ambition during the Taisho era to present itself as a modern nation. Recognizing its cultural and architectural importance, the building was designated a National Important Cultural Property in 2003.
Among its most distinctive features are the octagonal North and South domes, each adorned with eight majestic eagle sculptures (each 2.1 meters in diameter). Within the domes, decorative reliefs depict the zodiac animals corresponding to the traditional cardinal directions—symbols of protection and harmony.
Today, the Marunouchi Building remains one of Tokyo’s most beloved icons. By night, the red-brick façade glows under warm orange lights, creating a romantic and nostalgic atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the station’s daytime bustle. The surrounding area offers numerous restaurants with views of the illuminated station—an ideal setting to admire this enduring masterpiece over dinner.
About SideTracked Caches
This cache belongs to the SideTracked series. It is not designed to take you to a magical place with a breath taking view. It's a distraction for the weary traveller, but anyone else can go and find it too. More Information can be found at the SideTracked Website