A Modern Architectural Gem Supervised by Architect Kingo Tatsuno
The Former Karatsu Bank, now the Kingo Tatsuno Memorial Hall, is a historic building constructed in 1912 (Meiji 45). It is a precious example of modern architecture and an important cultural heritage that conveys Karatsu’s history and culture.
The construction was supervised by Kingo Tatsuno, who also designed Tokyo Station. His apprentice, Tanaka Jitsu from Shimizu Corporation, was responsible for the design, with decorations handled by Kyoto Takashimaya. The building employs a style known as "Tatsuno Style," which adapts the Queen Anne style popular during Tatsuno’s studies in England to Japanese sensibilities. Red bricks mixed with white granite and small towers and domes on the roof accentuate the design, resembling a crown. The interior features stucco walls and elaborately decorated ceilings, showcasing the high level of craftsmanship of the era.
The Former Karatsu Bank served the local economy for many years until 1997 when it was donated to Karatsu City.
It is now open to the public as the Kingo Tatsuno Memorial Hall, with free admission. The hall includes exhibits recreating the bank’s original appearance and displays related to Kingo Tatsuno.
Panels explaining the building’s history and architectural style are also available.
