Sophia University Building 1 Designated as a Tokyo Historical Landmark

A campus landmark built with donations from around the world through the Red Brick Fund-Raising Campaign

On June 14, 2024, Building 1 of Sophia University’s Yotsuya Campus was selected as a Tokyo Historical Landmark. These landmarks are historically significant buildings essential to the city’s landscape and are designated by the Governor of Tokyo under the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Ordinance on Landscape. The selection criteria include:

The building is generally over 50 years old.
It serves as a local landmark.
It is preserved in its original condition whenever possible.
Its exterior is easily accessible for viewing.

Hallway of Building 1

Building 1 was completed in 1932 and survived the Tokyo air raids during World War II.

Designed by Swiss architect Max Hinder, known for his German-style school architecture, it is a valuable example of his work and was recognized for its historical significance. At the time of its completion, the building featured modern amenities, including an elevator, and has since become a cherished landmark of the Yotsuya Campus.

The Story Behind Building 1’s Construction

Fundraising Record for Building 1

The cornerstone ceremony for Building 1 was held in 1930, leading to an overseas fundraising campaign to secure construction funds. This effort was spearheaded by German Father Bruno Bitter, S.J., who sent requests for donations to Catholic churches and schools in Germany, the Netherlands, France, and the United States.

Known as the Red Brick Fund-Raising Campaign, this initiative featured donors’ signatures on each brick, with some contributing large amounts by signing multiple bricks. Records of this fundraising effort are still preserved in the Sophia Archives.