TOKYO - The former residence of a late Casio Computer Co. cofounder in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward has elaborate designs underscoring the inventor's attention to detail.
The home belongs to Toshio Kashio, the second eldest of the four Kashio brothers who founded the electronics company in 1925 -- 2012. It is now serving as the Toshio Kashio Memorial Museum of InventionKashio Memorial Museum of Invention in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward. Its hexagonal roof with curves is believed to resemble a flying bird when viewed from above. The inventor who influenced people's daily lives also put thought into the structure's design. Visitors can see a number of inventions inside to complement the architectural beauty.
The structure is situated near a cliff, taking advantage of the landform. The main building was built on the clifftop in 1972, and the annex was added to lower land in 1986. The beautiful colors of solid wood are seen in the main building's double-height entrance hall, and a chandelier with 61 light bulbs hangs from the ceiling. There used to be a grand piano in the entrance hall, and attention was paid to soundproofing with a 60 centimeter thick double-concrete wall facing the street in front.
Stained glass windows with designs of different birds represent the Kashio family members, and the bald eagle above the main building's entrance is a nod to Toshio. The museum has artifacts including the world's first compact all-electric calculator, as well as watches and musical instruments in which Casio's inventions are used. This series explores Japan's architectural wonders and secrets of the past.