SAPPORO -- Couples will soon have the chance to hold their weddings at the Red Brick Office, a national important cultural property in this northern Japan city that is undergoing renovation work.

The grand reopening of what was formerly the main building of the former Hokkaido Government Office in Sapporo's Chuo Ward is slated for July 25. In conjunction with the renewal, two rooms within the facility will become available for rental: "Red brick hall B" on the second floor and "Domin base A" on the first basement level. Prior to the renovations, the former served as a conference room, while the latter was used for storing documents. Neither space had been open to the general public.

Hall B retains its historical charm, featuring wooden window frames and doors as well as a chandelier made during the Meiji era (1868-1912). In the renovations, the lighting was changed to LED fixtures, and the flooring and curtains were newly installed. The refined atmosphere of the space is expected to be used for various events including wedding ceremonies and photography, academic conferences and concerts.

Domin base A, located partially underground, is a calm and subdued room with white walls and simple wood-grain flooring. The space features four central pillars, apparently allowing for flexible layout adjustments according to its intended use. The space is expected to host activities such as training and briefing sessions, informational meetings, workshops, as well as cultural and artistic exhibitions.

Yumie Saito, a manager at the designated management body Hokkaido Akarenga Mirai Kiko (Hokkaido red brick future organization), stated, "The hall is suitable for celebratory occasions, while the Domin base is ideal as a recreational area for participants to become more familiar with each other. We aim to make this a welcoming and accessible venue for all Hokkaido residents."

Each room measures about 220 square meters. Depending on the type of event, the rooms can accommodate between 50 and 130 people. The base rental fee is 25,800 yen (around $180) for either morning or afternoon use, and 34,400 yen (roughly $240) for evening use. Reservations are being accepted through a dedicated website (in Japanese).

(Japanese original by Karen Goto, Hokkaido News Department)