The Origins of retro48 Nagasaki
Reviving Japan’s Oldest Public Housing as a Guesthouse
In the heart of Nagasaki City lies a quiet cluster of buildings known as the former Uonomachi Housing Complex. Designed in 1948, just three years after the end of World War II, this public housing site is one of only a handful of its kind remaining in Japan—a living testament to the nation’s postwar recovery.
This housing complex, built to solve the dire housing shortage of the time, holds significant historical value. However, as decades passed, many of these buildings became vacant, some falling into disrepair. In 2022, the city of Nagasaki launched a call for proposals to reimagine the space known as "Uon-no-machi+"—a local revitalization project that sought not only to preserve the buildings but to make them meaningful again.
Among those who responded was a team led by cocototo LLC, whose proposal was selected. Through this initiative, we were given the opportunity to bring new life to two adjoining units in the complex and begin the retro48 Nagasaki project.
From Postwar Architecture to Time Travel Accommodation
Rather than preserving these spaces as static heritage exhibits, we wanted to do something more interactive—a place where people could “stay” in history. That vision became the foundation of retro48 Nagasaki: a guesthouse that invites you to experience the lifestyle of the late 1940s to 1960s through immersive design and storytelling.
Every detail—from the original fixtures and tiles to the retro furnishings and appliances—was carefully restored or sourced to recreate the ambiance of the Showa era. And yet, we didn’t forget modern needs: guests will find air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities, and more to ensure a comfortable stay.
A Space to Reflect, Create, and Remember
Our mission is not just to provide accommodation, but to create a space where travelers, creators, and writers can feel inspired. Whether you’re here to relax, explore Nagasaki’s rich history, or work on a personal project, retro48 offers a unique and nostalgic atmosphere to support your journey.
With two themed rooms—the Karasumi Room, inspired by the nostalgia of middle-class postwar life, and the Kasutera Room, designed around the spirit of young couples during Japan’s period of rapid economic growth—you’ll find more than a place to sleep. You’ll discover a portal to the past.
What’s Next?
In the coming articles, we’ll introduce the story behind each room’s design, explore local attractions, and share the voices of guests who have walked through the halls of retro48 Nagasaki.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
We invite you to travel not just through space—but through time.
Book Your Stay at retro48 Nagasaki
Karasumi Room: Experience a Showa-era Western-style room with a writing desk.
Kasutera Room: Enjoy a retro Japanese-style room with a traditional chabudai table.
Which Showa experience will you choose?
The Karasumi Room features a Western-style room with a writing desk and a Japanese-style room, while the Kasutera Room offers a retro Japanese-style room with a chabudai table. Both rooms can accommodate up to 5 guests.
