For Blocking Mt. Fuji View, Japan Building Will Be Torn Down

(SPOT.ph) A major Japanese developer has decided to demolish its newly built apartment building in Kunitachi City in the western part of the Tokyo prefecture following complaints that it was blocking the view of Mt. Fuji, one of Japan’s most sought-after vistas.

Sekisui House Ltd. has issued an apology for constructing the 10-story Grande Maison Kunitachi Fujimi Dori condominium project, citing how it has "decided to prioritize preserving the landscape" in the area following its "renewed awareness of the impact the building would have on the view of Mount Fuji," according to Japanese media reports.

Opposed to blocking Mt. Fuji view from

The building, which has 10 floors and a total 18 units, was just nearing completion and was supposed to be turned over to buyers in July.

It had faced opposition in the early stages, with locals concerned that it would obstruct the prized view of Mt. Fuji. The city council intervened, and builders adjusted the building’s height from 11 to 10 stories, according to an NHK World report. Developers ignored clamor to make the building smaller.

But just as it was about to finish, the developers relented, deciding instead to totally tear it down.

The obstruction is quite obvious in photos captured by a local resident, who shared photos before and after construction of the apartment building in question on X.

Buyers to be compensated

Sekisui House said buyers will be compensated financially as the units will no longer be turned over to them. The developer’s decision, meanwhile, drew concerns from local authorities, with City Mayor Nagami Kazuo saying "I found Sekisui House’s approach deeply regrettable."

The next problem that the city faces is the demolition work, with the mayor saying "there will inevitably be consequences from this."

The Philippines had faced a similar problem years ago, when a developer built a high-rise condominium that ruined the clear horizon behind the Rizal Monument in Manila, among the most visited and most photographed tourist sites in the country. The 49-story building, which has been dubbed a "photobomber," remains standing until today.