On November 1, 1726 (Kyōhō 11), Daimaru Shinsaibashi opened as a kimono store at its current location, and since then has operated continuously, marking its 300th anniversary this November 1.
In 1933, the original Vories architecture, which shaped the building's current form, was completed. In 2019, a major reconstruction took place, preserving the elegant interior and historically valuable exterior.
Inside this building rich with 300 years of history, lies many hidden charms!
Now, let's embark on an adventure to uncover the "mysteries" of Daimaru Shinsaibashi through quizzes!
If you solve all the mysteries, a treasure awaits you!
Sometimes you "understand" only after you go?
Mystery 1
There is one staircase in the main building. How many steps does it have? And how many stars shine on the handrail in total?
The marble staircase was set to be demolished when the old main building was taken down, but was revived during the construction of the new main building as the stairs leading to the food hall! As many original materials as possible were reused.
Mystery 2
An animal is decorated above the "Midosuji Central Entrance" of the main building. What animal is it?
The transom relief depicts an Aesop’s fable teaching the importance of steady effort despite slow progress.
Mystery 3
An animal is hidden in the beams of the main building's first-floor ceiling. What is it?
This decoration has existed since the old main building and has always watched over customers from above. It is also said to be a hawk
Mystery 4
The main building is decorated with many animals.
Where can you find the pelican?
Here you can find not only pelicans but also eagles and peacocks, gathering the birds of Daimaru Shinsaibashi.
Mystery 5
Various artworks are displayed near the restrooms in the main building. What is the title of the artwork displayed in front of the 4th floor restroom?
Each restroom in the main building features art that matches the floor’s atmosphere and concept, providing a refreshing break.
Mystery 6
At a certain place in the main building, a "blueprint" showcasing the origin of Vories architecture is displayed. Where is it?
Copies of old main building blueprints and sketches are exhibited, conveying the architects’ passion. From the windows, you can see preserved exterior walls and the Crystal Tower.
Mystery 7
On the rooftop of the South Building, there is a large Daimaru sign. The "Dai" character contains auspicious numbers. What are they?
Focus on the brush stroke ends in the "Dai" character! This signboard is over 8 meters in diameter and is too large to be newly installed under current laws.
Mystery 8
What is the diameter (size of the circle) of the "Dai" signboard?
The Daimaru Shinsaibashi South Building, built in 1970, was Japan's first "Children's Building" at that time, and this large Daimaru sign was installed then.
Mystery 9
The new main building completed in 2019 has thousands of "pins" embedded in every tile and stone on the Midosuji preserved exterior wall for safety. How many pins are there?
At the outdoor terrace on the 7th floor of the main building, you can closely see the part of the exterior wall called the "Crystal Tower" and confirm the pins.
Mystery 10
Last question!
On the wall of the 9th floor rest space of the main building, a "greeting message" is hidden. What is it?
This expresses a warm welcome not only to customers from Japan but also from around the world.
How to receive your treasure:
Location: Special counter at the underground 1st floor main building, in front of the subway ticket gates entrance.Conditions：Please show the following to the staff at the special counter.
1) Present your quiz rally booklet.
2) Present a receipt for purchases totaling at least 3,000 yen (tax included) at Daimaru Shinsaibashi during the quiz period. Receipts can be combined.
Available dates and times:
July: 18-20, 25-26 [11:00 AM - 6:00 PM]
August: 1-2, 8-9, 11, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30 [11:00 AM - 6:00 PM]
Treasure:
300th Anniversary Original Medal (Bronze color) One medal per person per visit.
*No minimum correct answers required.*Not edible.
*Some discoloration may occur.
