A special space where history and the future intersect
Since the opening of its port, Yokohama has woven its history by engaging with and fusing diverse cultures. Today, the city still boasts a beautiful, classical cityscape filled with exotic charm. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind stay at this legacy hotel, which preserves and repurposes the former Yokohama City Hall Administrative Building—the first post-war structure to be designated a "Yokohama City Certified Historic Building."
Preservation and Repurposing of the Former Yokohama City Hall
Completed as part of the 100th-anniversary project for the opening of the Port of Yokohama, this building was beloved by locals (Hamakkos) for over 60 years. It was designed by Togo Murano, a master architect who supported Japan’s modern architecture movement. By preserving the former Administrative Building in its original location, we aim to inherit the memories and landscapes that symbolize Yokohama's developmental history, creating a hotel that generates new tourism and vibrancy.
Togo Murano (1891–1984)
A leading master architect o
1959: Designed the "Yokohama City Hall."
2025: The "Former Yokohama City Hall Administrative Building" became the first post-war structure to be designated a "Yokohama City Certified Historic Building."
His unique style incorporated techniques from various architectural modes—from Classical and Modernism to traditional Japanese—resulting in over 300 distinctive designs.
Photo courtesy of Togo Murano Archives.
Inheriting the Design
As a legacy hotel, we preserve and pass on valuable architectural designs whenever possible. Regarding sections dismantled during renovation, we have not merely copied them but reinterpreted and elevated them into new designs befitting a premium hotel.
Exterior Blending into the Cit
Togo Murano’s architectural philosophy placed great importance on exteriors that harmonize with the city. His technique of filling lattice-like frames with dark brown brick tiles still conveys the original atmosphere today.
Entrance Lobby
The 1st-floor ceiling features circular lighting that reinterprets the fixtures from the former City Council Chamber. The light leakage and materials have been newly designed to create an uplifting atmosphere worthy of a grand entrance.
OMO Bakery
"Sea, Waves, and Ship," a work by sculptor Shindo Tsuji, remains in its original position on the wall of the OMO Bakery. The Taizan tile art, with its overlapping tiles and three-dimensional feel, is both beautiful and powerful.
Grand Staircase
The grand staircase originally used in the Public Hall of the former City Hall has been relocated and recreated in the hotel’s atrium. The dignified landings are also repurposed to decorate the hotel space.
Guest Rooms
The color palette of the guest rooms is designed using "Legacy Colors," drawing inspiration from the tiles, furniture, and carpets used inside the former City Hall to create a sophisticated hotel atmosphere.
Collecting Fragments of Legacy
Introducing the designs of the former Yokohama City Hall—some preserved exactly as they were, others layered into the hotel's new identity. As you explore the premises, you will encounter ingenious design details scattered throughout.
Taizan Tile Art
A work composed of repurposed Taizan tiles from the former Public Hall. New tiles are placed in the center, with historical tiles from the original era arranged toward the edges, creating a harmony of old and new.
Chairs
These beautifully curved, delicate chairs used in the former Council Chamber have been updated with new legs and upholstery for use in the OMO Base, continuing to weave their history.
Blue Porcelain Tiles
The glossy blue porcelain tiles used within the former City Hall are utilized in their original form. Each tile has a different hue, offering a sense of depth.
Handrails
Murano was praised as a "Master of Handrails." By recreating the landings and repurposing part of the grand staircase handrails, his smooth and elegant curves remain true works of art.
Tower
A symbolic tower on the rooftop installed for the citizens who love Yokohama. Its design was inspired by fishing nets, reflecting the fact that a fish market once stood on this site.
Glass Bricks
Artworks inspired by the glass bricks incorporated by Togo Murano are on display. You can enjoy various expressions depending on the light and angle. We also offer two guest rooms that preserve and utilize original glass bricks from that era.
Numeric Design
Inheriting Murano’s numeric designs, the numbers "0" and "9"—which did not exist at the time—were newly commissioned from a designer who worked with Murano. They symbolize the fusion of old and new across time.
Door Handles
The handles, which Murano designed with great care, have also been reused. These soft, curved handles create movement within spaces defined by horizontal and vertical lines.
"Hyoshigi" (Clapper-shaped) Ti
Looking at your feet, you will find a mix of original clapper-shaped tiles inherited from the former City Hall and those faithfully recreated. You can enjoy the different textures and expressions of the old and new.
Clocks
The large clock at the 1st-floor front desk is the original clock from the former City Hall's Public Hall. Other clocks designed by Murano are also reused or on display.
Hama-ism Collection
An exhibition where you can learn about the culture and historical background born in Yokohama through the history of the former City Hall’s conception and inheritance. It also introduces the charms of the former City Hall and Togo Murano’s designs in detail.
[Exclusively for Staying Guests] Yokohama Legacy Walk
A tour to unravel the beauty of Togo Murano's architecture and the history of this "Yokohama City Certified Historic Building." OMO Rangers will share the history of this architectural masterpiece and local favorite spots. Experience the fusion of old and new in both the building and the city, making your stay at this legacy hotel even more special.
Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:10 AM
Fee: Complimentary (Advance booking required via the official hotel website)
Click here for details.
OMO7 Yokohama
OMO7 Yokohama is set to open in Kannai, a neighborhood filled with exotic charm located at the heart of Yokohama's port. In the evening, let yourself be carried away by the music with the sea breeze at your back.; in the morning, delight in a buffet featuring carefully selected ingredients. Feel the essence of Yokohama, or "Yokohama-ism," and get your heart racing as you discover the city's unexplored depths.