Nakano Sunplaza redevelopment back to square one as ward considers temporary use cases

Tokyo’s Nakano Ward is reconsidering the future of Nakano Sunplaza after a major redevelopment plan was abandoned due to soaring construction costs. Officials announced on August 27 that parts of the landmark complex may be reopened for temporary use while new redevelopment plans are drawn up.

Nakano Sunplaza circa 2016.  Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

The ward is studying the feasibility of reopening sections of the first-floor entrance hall and is considering advertising opportunities on the exterior walls, particularly for anime-related businesses. The south plaza may also be opened as a performance space for dancers and musicians. Officials emphasized that these measures would remain provisional until a long-term redevelopment plan is finalized.

Twin-Tower Redesign Rejected

The decision follows the collapse of an ambitious project called “NAKANO Sunplaza City,” which had envisioned a 61-story, 250-meter tower combining residences, offices, a hotel, and a large hall. In September 2024, developers led by Nomura Real Estate informed the ward that construction costs had surged by more than ¥90 billion, delaying the schedule far beyond the initial 2029 target.

Related content: What could have been - Nakano Sun Plaza redevelopment site obtains urban planning approval (Patience Realty, November 2023)

As a cost-cutting alternative, the developers later proposed a twin-tower design with increased residential units. However, the ward rejected the plan in March, citing concerns that it significantly reduced public space, including facilities for civic use. The development agreement was formally dissolved in June, effectively resetting the project.

Resident Feedback and Next Steps

While large-scale redevelopment is back at the drawing board, Nakano Ward has begun exploring how citizens would like to see the site used. At a July 23 public forum attended by about 20 residents, some participants called for green, walkable public spaces and cultural facilities, while others suggested preserving the existing Sunplaza building.

To chart a new path forward, the ward will begin consultations this fall with developers and industry stakeholders to assess market demand and construction conditions. Public input will also be collected through an online survey between September and December. A new redevelopment framework is expected to be drafted from March 2026 onward.

In the meantime, the temporary reopening of parts of the Sunplaza offers a stopgap solution to keep the iconic site active until its long-term future is decided.

Sources:

Nikkei Shimbun (Japanese only; paywalled)

Asahi Shimbun (Japanese only)