San Francisco Japantown Task Force

DATA SHEET

Place: Japantown Peace Plaza

Address: Post St. (adjacent to Buchanan St.)

Description:

The Japantown Peace Plaza is a public park situated near the center of the Japan Center Mall, between the Miyako and Kintetsu buildings. The Peace Plaza serves as the main entryway into the Japan Center Mall alongside Post St. and lies adjacent to the Buchanan Mall, with a concrete walkway connecting the two shopping districts. The flooring is comprised of 16’x16’ slate tiles and features two separate levels, which are connected by a small walkway at the center of the plaza. The Peace Pagoda (see data sheet) resides at the corner of the plaza, with a half-moon stage surrounding it that is frequently used for local festivals and events. To enhance the plaza’s natural feel, the area is bordered by cherry trees on one side and plum trees on the other, as well as a few large boulders that stand near the entrance of the Kintetsu Building. A large slate basin also extends out from both sides of the Peace Pagoda, with water constantly flowing through it at all times (see left picture). The Peace Plaza is currently owned and operated by the City of San Francisco and is frequently used for local celebrations such as the Obon Festival, Aki Matsuri, and Cherry Blossom Festival.

History:

The Peace Plaza began construction during redevelopment in the mid-1960’s and was created as a complement to the Japan Center Mall. The original design for the plaza was composed by world-renowned architect Mihori Yamasaki, while the design for the renovation (mentioned later on) was created by Kenji Murokami. Initially, the plaza featured a 17-century old “eternal flame” that was donated from the Sumida Shrine in Osaka and lighted by Takeso Shimoda, then Japan’s ambassador to the U.S. The original Peace Plaza also featured a granite reflecting pool that surrounded the Peace Pagoda and shaped in the form of a keyhole (see right picture). At the center of the plaza stood a large drum-tower, which was frequently used during community celebrations before it was accidentally destroyed by a motorist. The plaza was first owned by the National Braemar, a private real estate company, before being sold to private developer Sinclair Louie, who wanted to build on the lot. However, the community protested the elimination of the plaza and convinced the city of San Francisco to purchase the structure. In 2000, due to frequent leakages and sewage problems, the plaza was renovated and select features were removed.

Significance:

Cultural, Social

Recognition of Significance:

Dedicated by Mayor Joseph Alioto in 1968. Rededicated by Mayor Willie L. Brown, Jr. after renovation in 2003

Sources:

George Yamasaki, Former Director, National Braemar

Other Comments:

Prepared By: Young Kim Date Prepared: 9/20/04