The Symphony Hall opened in 1982 as Japan’s first hall dedicated specifically to classical music. One key feature is the many design choices made to achieve a roughly two-second reverberation time, considered ideal for classical performances. The hall’s floor uses cork tiles, and the walls and ceiling are constructed to allow audiences to experience rich resonance. Another characteristic is that, from the audience’s perspective, the venue resembles an arena-theater format, helping ensure beautiful sound can be enjoyed from any seat. This thoroughly crafted acoustics drew the remark “the best sound in the world” from Herbert von Karajan. In 2014, The Symphony Café (offering carefully selected wines and more) and The Symphony Shop (with original goods) also opened, allowing visitors to enjoy the time before performances. The nearest station is JR Fukushima Station; from there it’s about a 7-minute walk heading north.