FUKUOKA -- The stately main building at the former Kyushu Imperial University's Faculty of Engineering here boasts a cutting-edge design from the time of construction in 1930.

Approaching the building, one is first struck by its imposing presence. Upon closer inspection, the eaves molding covered with scratch-pattern tiles add a distinct variation to its exterior. The rounded corners, combined with art deco-style semi-cylindrical towers, lend a soft impression.

The Faculty of Engineering's main building in Fukuoka's Higashi Ward was constructed in 1930. Its structural design was overseen by Ken Kurata (1881-1940), the university's architecture division head, while the aesthetic design was crafted by engineer Setsuzo Obara (1897-1953).

The building was among the first to adopt reinforced concrete technology, which became mainstream after the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. It boasts high seismic strength for its time and further enhanced fire resistance with scratch-pattern tiles. It has become an architectural symbol not only within present-day Kyushu University but also for Fukuoka.

The eaves of the entrance porch feature circular stained glass, allowing red and green light to filter through. The transom at the entrance is adorned with stained glass depicting plant motifs.

A wall of the fourth-floor conference room is adorned with a large oil painting, and the stylish furniture and carpet remain as they were at the time of construction. In 2023, it was designated as a registered tangible cultural property of Japan.

(Japanese original by Minoru Kanazawa, Kyushu Photo and Video Department)

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The Japanese version of this article was originally published on May 18, 2025.

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This series explores Japan's architectural wonders and secrets of yesteryear. Read more Retro Japan articles here.