Apple’s First Store in Japan Gets the Axe in September
In a move that feels like a plot twist from a late‑night comedy show, Apple’s pioneering Ginza location will be demolished this September.
Back in 2003, Apple opened its first Ginza store in the Sayegusa Building, and years later the place earned a special place on the top of Tim Cook’s “must‑visit” list when he visited Japan in 2019. Now, Japan Property Central confirms that the beloved building will be torn down and replaced with a brand‑new structure.
Why This is Warmer Than a Hot Apple Pie
- Relocation: Apple intends to keep the sweet spot for tech lovers in Japan, but with a far more modern vibe.
- Construction buzz: The old office space will make room for a sleek, future‑proof design that’s sure to attract the next wave of Apple fans.
- Tim Cook’s favorite spot: Even the CEO’s early visits won’t keep the floor plan from getting a makeover.
What Happens to the Old Building?
The Sayegusa structure, a landmark in its own right, will be erased from the skyline and replaced with a cutting‑edge facility. Think of it as a character in a sitcom getting a whole new backstory.
Stay Tuned for the Grand Reopening!
Keep your eyes peeled for the next phase of Apple’s expansion in Japan—well, you’ll see it when the new building clocks in. Meanwhile, you can still marvel at the old site’s legacy from a distance (or inside a sleek, brand‑new Apple shop).

Apple Ginza: New Sharpshoot & Still Open Until May 12
Hey tech lovers! If the buzz about the brand‑new Apple building in Ginza has got you drooling, just a quick heads‑up: the current phone shop is still rocking its daily routine. Apple customers can drop by the store during opening hours until May 12—but no word yet on when the Cupertino‑originated company will move into the shiny new space.
Why Gi::Zah???!
Apple’s first brick‑and‑mortar venture outside the U.S. has always felt like a “must‑visit” spot for anyone who wants to taste the magic firsthand. Just ask the gadgets‑aficionados:
- “Thanks for a wonderful visit!” – Tim Cook, twittin’ the world on Dec. 10, 2019.
- In Japanese, that’s “ありがとう、とても楽しい訪問でした!” (Enjoyed it a lot!) – showing how a quick visit can turn into a glory moment.
Still on Sale? Check Out Other Stores
Have you checked out the other Apple Haven in Japan? Good news: there are 9 other retail locations buzzing with inventory and customer service. Tokyo alone hosts:
- Chuo City
- Chiyoda City
- Shibuya
- Shinjuku
All operating hours are largely unchanged—which means you’re free to swing by whenever the morning light hits the city limits.
What’s Next for Apple Ginza?
Who knows if Apple will open a brand‑new headquarters right near your local coffeeshop soon? For now, stick with the Ginza store until it closes, and keep an eye on the official Apple website for future updates.
Heads up! We’re all proliferating now, and Apple will keep sprucing their doors in all corner pockets of Japan.
