A Modern Heritage Building Telling the Story of Osaka Port
The Chikko Red Brick Warehouse was built by Sumitomo Warehouse in October 1923. Constructed alongside Pier No. 1 of Osaka Port, the complex originally consisted of two warehouse buildings.
Warehouse Structures
Former Warehouse No. 200: A two-story building standing 13 meters high, with a total floor area of approximately 4,500 square meters.
Former Warehouse No. 300: A 13-meter-high building with a total floor area of approximately 2,800 square meters. It is now a single-story structure, although it originally had two floors.
The buildings were designed by Yutaka Hidaka, an architect associated with the Sumitomo zaibatsu, one of Japan’s major prewar business conglomerates.
A freight railway line known as the Osaka Rinko Line once ran between the two buildings. Cargo was transported into and out of the warehouses using this railway.
History of the Chikko Red Brick Warehouse
The construction of the Chikko Red Brick Warehouse was part of Osaka Port’s First Port Construction Project.
Osaka City had been developing the port since 1897, but progress was delayed by financial difficulties and economic downturns. After World War I, however, growing demand for cargo transportation made further port development increasingly urgent. The Sumitomo group took responsibility for improving the port’s seawalls as part of these efforts.
Preservation and Adaptive Reuse
The Chikko Red Brick Warehouse ended its use as a warehouse in 1999, after which its management was transferred from Sumitomo Warehouse to Osaka City.
Because of concerns about the building’s earthquake resistance, demolition was considered. However, efforts were made to preserve the historic structure and find a new use for it. Eventually, the GLION Group undertook its redevelopment and reuse.
Reborn as the GLION MUSEUM
Since 2015, the GLION Group has operated the former warehouse as the GLION MUSEUM.
The museum focuses on the preservation of classic cars in running condition, allowing visitors and automobile enthusiasts to appreciate historic vehicles in a setting surrounded by the warehouse’s distinctive red-brick architecture.
Chikko Red Brick Square and Candle Night
Beside the warehouse is Chikko Red Brick Square, which has hosted the Chikko Candle Night event around the summer solstice every June since 2008.
Numerous candles illuminate the square, creating a magical atmosphere against the historic red-brick buildings. The event has become a popular occasion for enjoying the waterfront in a completely different mood from its daytime appearance.
Tourist Attractions Around Chikko Red Brick Warehouse
The area around the Chikko Red Brick Warehouse offers a variety of attractions, making it easy to combine a visit with other Osaka Bay Area destinations.
Kaigandori Gallery CASO
A contemporary art gallery located in the Chikko waterfront district.
Minato Sumiyoshi Shrine
A local shrine that has long served as a place of worship for the surrounding community.
Mount Tempozan
Known as one of Japan’s lowest mountains, Mount Tempozan offers an easy and unusual “mountain climbing” experience in the heart of the waterfront district.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
One of the world’s largest aquariums, famous for its whale sharks and impressive marine exhibits.
Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel
A landmark attraction offering spectacular views of Osaka Bay and the surrounding city, particularly beautiful after sunset.
Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan
A cultural facility where a variety of exhibitions and events are held.
Tempozan Marketplace
A commercial complex where visitors can enjoy shopping, souvenirs, and a wide selection of food.
Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho
A food-themed area where visitors can sample famous Osaka specialties and experience the city’s distinctive food culture.
Hotel Seagull Tempozan Osaka
A waterfront accommodation facility in the Tempozan area.
Mermaid Square
An open plaza used for various events and community activities.
Access
The Chikko Red Brick Warehouse is conveniently accessible by train.
By train: From Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line, it is approximately a 10-minute walk. From Exit 4, walk south for about 500 meters.
A Red-Brick Landmark Where Osaka’s Port History Lives On
Chikko Red Brick Warehouse is more than a surviving historic structure. Through its modern reuse as a museum and its surrounding events and attractions, the building continues to play a role in Osaka’s waterfront culture.
With Osaka Port’s history, classic automobiles, red-brick architecture, and nearby Tempozan attractions all within easy reach, the area offers visitors an opportunity to discover a different side of Osaka beyond its busy city center.