News Nakamise Asakusa shopping arcade gets first reroofing in 80 years

The Nakamise shopping arcade in Tokyo's Asakusa, a well-known tourist destination, is close to finishing its first roof replacement since the post-World War II era. According to Caname Co., the company overseeing the project, the renovations began last June following leaks caused by the deterioration of 1945 installed tiles. Over 7,000 aged, greenish copper tiles are being replaced with new reddish-brown ones, which are expected to develop a similar patina in 30 to 40 years. The arcade's row of small shops stretches along the open-air path from the iconic Kaminarimon gate to the main hall of Senso-ji temple.

"The bright shine of the new roofing is beautiful, and it will also be a pleasure to see its colour gradually change," Yujun Moriyama, a temple official, told reporters. Masako Takashima, 81, who runs an accessories shop in the arcade, expressed happiness with the new look. "I hope it helps us to welcome customers with a renewed spirit," she added with a smile.

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