In the early Showa period, Osaka was hailed as the "Manchester of the East." Japan surpassed Britain in the spinning industry to become the world's leading exporter of cotton products. As a monumental symbol of this achievement, construction of a members-only club hall was begun with a donation of 1 million yen from the late Toyobo Managing Director Tsuneo Oka (to promote the advancement and development of Japan's cotton industry) in his will, along with 500,000 yen from the industry. Designed by Osaka's leading architect, Setsu Watanabe, it was completed in 1931 (Showa 6). The reconstruction of Osaka Castle, which took place around the same time, cost 480,000 yen. This lavish architectural design is indicative of the extravagance of this Cotton Industry Hall. Before and after the war, it was visited by many notable figures, including the Lytton Commission, First Lady Roosevelt, Helen Keller, and other prime ministers. The hall, incorporating styles from around the world, and its elegant and stately design in each room, remain a nationally designated Important Cultural Property, exuding a beautiful presence here to this day. Hats off to the strong presence that has endured the turbulent Showa era, the ravages of war, the great earthquake, and everything else, and continues to uphold the many profound wishes of the deceased. As it is a members-only facility, tours are only available once a month (usually the fourth Saturday, paid tour).