The former Teodora Ozaki Residence, built in the Meiji era in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, overcame the threat of demolition and was opened to the press ahead of its opening to the public in March, and manga artists who helped preserve the building gathered together. I did.
The former Teodora Ozaki residence, located in Gotokuji, Setagaya Ward, and built in 1899, is associated with the politician Yukio Ozaki, who was also known as the god of constitutional government, and has long been loved by local residents.
When plans were made to demolish the building four and a half years ago due to its age, manga artist Kazumi Yamashita and others took the lead in trying to preserve the building by raising funds through crowdfunding and other efforts to preserve the historic building. We realized this.
On the 8th, the renovated building was unveiled to the press, and manga artists involved in preservation activities gathered together.
Of these, Norifusa Mita, the creator of ``Dragon Zakura,'' said, ``When I saw it for the first time, I felt like I could do something with it if I preserved it.'' "I approached the manga artist," he said.
In addition, Tetsuya Chiba, the creator of ``Ashita no Joe,'' said, ``When I heard that this wonderful Western-style building was going to be demolished, I thought it was a waste.It would be great if we could spread the culture of Japanese manga from here.'' I did.
The first floor of the building has been converted into a cafe, and the second floor has been converted into a gallery displaying original drawings by manga artists to entertain fans, and will open to the public on March 1st.
Kazumi Yamashita, who led the preservation efforts, said, ``I was drawn to this building because it is integrated with nature and has a mysterious power.I want it to become a symbol of Gotokuji.''