The Trump Tower in Kamata, Ota Ward, Tokyo — a popular apartment building that stays fully occupied. (Photo courtesy of ©Akihiko Kobayashi)
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Tokyo's Kamata neighborhood is known for its small factories. However, one apartment building draws attention in every United States election season. Named Trump Tower, it is a hidden gem and a popular photo spot for visitors.
Despite the name, this Trump Tower has no connection to President-elect Donald Trump, who is poised to return to the White House for a second term. The building is actually named after the popular card game. However, the building's owner is a true Trump supporter. "In times as chaotic as these, I want to see him show strong leadership," he says.
A Card Game-Inspired Venture
Trump, one of America's most famous real estate moguls, owns the iconic Trump Tower, which towers over New York's Fifth Avenue. Completed in the 1980s, the building stands 58 stories tall (or 68, according to its official website). It is known for its luxury residences, high-end restaurants, and views of Central Park and downtown Manhattan.
Tokyo's Trump Tower, located in Kamata, Ota Ward, is a 13-story apartment building. Finished in February 2014, it opened three years before Trump's previous presidential inauguration. Since then, all 66 units have remained fully occupied, making it a highly sought-after residence.
The building's 13 floors reminded its 76-year-old owner, Akihiko Kobayashi, of a deck of cards, with each suit containing 13 cards from Ace to King.
Kobayashi runs a machine tool manufacturing company. He explains, "I wanted real estate income as a kind of final hand, like in a card game, if the factory ever hit tough times." Laughing, he adds, "I didn't intend to mimic the original tower in New York."
The Trump Connection
Since the building's completion, Trump has run in three US presidential elections, drawing attention to the apartment every four years. Foreign tourists staying at the business hotel next door often notice the orange Trump Tower sign at the entrance. Amused, they frequently stop to take photos.
As a business owner himself, Kobayashi feels a connection to Trump, who has fought on the frontlines of business. "Compared to other politicians, I think he has negotiation skills, decisiveness, and drive. I feel a certain connection with him," he says.
Some in Japan are concerned about Trump's America First policies. Not Kobayashi, however. "When dealing with countries like North Korea, which avoids addressing the abductions issue, or Russia, diplomacy backed by strength is essential," he emphasizes. "Trump can achieve that," he explains. Kobayashi likens Trump to Theodore Roosevelt, who, as the youngest US president, practiced big stick diplomacy. He holds similar hopes for Trump, who will assume office as the oldest US president in history.
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Author: Hitoshi Igarashi
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