Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre
Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre, located in Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima Ward, Tokyo, is a large-scale comprehensive arts and cultural facility.
The idea originated in the early 1960s, when opera singer Yoshie Fujiwara proposed to then Tokyo governor Ryokichi Minobe that “Tokyo needs an opera house.” The land, once the site of the Ikebukuro Station West Exit black market and the former Tokyo Gakugei University Elementary School, was acquired by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government for development. Although the role of a full-scale opera house was later assumed by the New National Theatre, Tokyo still decided to build a cultural complex in Ikebukuro, centered on a concert hall and theatre spaces. Designed by Ashihara Architects, construction began in 1987, and the theatre officially opened in October 1990. At the same time, Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park was also redeveloped, serving as the theatre’s forecourt.
A distinctive feature of the theatre is its stacked design, in which multiple halls are vertically layered. Since the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line runs beneath the site, it was essential to completely eliminate noise and vibration. This structural solution not only addressed soundproofing but also created a spacious glass atrium, balancing functionality with openness on the limited plot.
Between 2011 and 2012, the theatre underwent its first major renovation since opening, designed by Matsuda Hirata Design and Kazuyoshi Kajiyama Architects. While the exterior was largely preserved, the atrium was extensively remodeled. The long, suspended escalator that once reached directly to the fifth floor was removed due to its “fear-inducing” design and replaced with a two-stage U-shaped escalator for greater safety and comfort. Interior finishes were updated with warm materials such as wood, earth, and iron to create a friendlier atmosphere, while stage and building facilities were fully modernized.
Following the renovation, a Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre Post Office was also established on the first floor.
