Matsuya Ginza's History

History

Matsuya Ginza began its journey in 1869, starting as a kimono shop in Yokohama shortly after the opening of the port to the West.

Initially known as "Tsuruya", the company later acquired the Matsuya kimono store in Tokyo's Kanda Ward in 1889, adopting the name "Matsuya" to honor its rich heritage.

In 1907, Matsuya garnered attention as the first building in Tokyo to feature a department store-style exterior. This marked a significant milestone in its evolution. The iconic Shokaku emblem, depicting a flying crane, became the symbol for Matsuya, still appearing on the building exterior to this day.

Matsuya relocated to Ginza in 1925 with a vision to offer not just products but an unparalleled shopping experience in a district where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly.

Throughout its history, Matsuya Ginza has remained committed to its core values, guided by the belief that "design is care." This ethos is reflected in every aspect of the store, from its meticulously curated displays to its exemplary customer service. Today, Matsuya Ginza continues to strive to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

The façade of Matsuya Ginza, spanning a block along Ginza-dori, is beautifully illuminated from dusk until 10 p.m. (as of June 2024), attracting tourists as an important Tokyo landmark.

The 120m-long exterior wall of Matsuya Ginza is said to be one of the largest glass surfaces in Japan.

Space of Ginza (SOG), an emblem of Matsuya Ginza, is an atrium spanning seven stories to the ceiling in the central hall. Known as the "Sky Ribbon," the escalator running alongside it gained popularity as the largest aerial escalator in the East upon its completion. The SOG hosts pop-ups and events throughout the year, while the atrium is used for seasonal decorations.

Matsuya Ginza's famous "Hyakusankai" event, which dates back 100 years, is held every year during the rainy season.