Ichigaya Letterpress Factory [Tokyo]

【Overview of Ichigaya Letterpress Factory】

Ichigaya Letterpress Factory is an interactive cultural facility operated by Dai Nippon Printing (DNP) where visitors can experience and feel the technology and culture of letterpress printing. Opened in November 2020 in Ichigaya, Tokyo, it is housed in a restored former office building from the Taisho era. Inside, visitors can learn about the entire process—from type casting to printing and bookbinding—and even participate in workshops. Admission is free.

【Ichigaya Letterpress Factory: Exterior】

This building was completed in 1926. After several expansions and renovations, it was used as an office until 2016. As part of a larger factory redevelopment project, it was restored to its original architectural state from the time of its completion and reborn as a museum.

【Ichigaya Letterpress Factory: Type Racks】

There are traditional type racks known as “Uma,” where a massive number of movable lead types are meticulously and neatly arranged.

【Ichigaya Letterpress Factory: Type Casting Machine】

Machines used to melt metal to create individual types are on display, and you can actually see them in action.

【Ichigaya Letterpress Factory: Printing Presses】

Historical platen presses and cylinder presses are lined up. You can truly feel the authentic atmosphere of a printing factory, complete with the lingering scent of ink.

【Tourist Spots Near Ichigaya Letterpress Factory (Within a 30-minute walk)】

Ichigaya Kamegaoka Hachimangu, Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine, Akagi Shrine, Tokyo Daijingu, Yasukuni Shrine.

市谷亀岡八幡宮【東京都】

Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine [Tokyo]

Akagi Shrine [Tokyo]

Tokyo Daijingu Shrine [Tokyo]

Yasukuni-jinja Shrine [Tokyo]

I’ve put together a walking route below, so I hope you find it helpful for your visit.

【新宿〜市ヶ谷】眼病平癒の神社を結ぶ歴史散歩。諏訪神社から茶ノ木稲荷神社を巡る開運ルート

【Ichigaya Letterpress Factory: Access】

Admin’s Impressions

Since 1886, this area has been home to the factory of Shueisha, the predecessor of Dai Nippon Printing (DNP). Even today, various DNP buildings line the streets, giving it the curious and unique atmosphere of a “DNP Corporate Village” right in the middle of the city. Not only is admission free, but there is also a café and shop near the entrance, and it was quite bustling with visitors. If you are taking a stroll around the Ichigaya area or visiting Ichigaya Kamegaoka Hachimangu, why not drop by?

Scale / Facility Size

 (3)

Richness of Nature

 (1)

Accessibility

 (3.5)

Crowd Level

 (4)

Ichigaya Letterpress Factory Address

1-1-1 Ichigaya Kagacho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 162-8001

*Note: No parking lot available.

About a 10-minute walk from Exit 6 of Ichigaya Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku and Yurakucho Lines).

About a 10-minute walk from Exit A1 of Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station (Toei Oedo Line).

参考

市谷の杜 本と活字館

関連投稿(Related Posts):

Ichigaya Kameoka Hachiman Shrine [Tokyo] Yoshiwara Shrine [Tokyo] Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine [Tokyo] Shibamata Taishakuten Temple [Tokyo]