The main building of the International Christian University (ICU) in Mitaka, Tokyo, has recently been registered as a tangible cultural property by the Japanese government. This building has been serving as the university's main academic facility, but it has a complex history, as it was originally constructed for the former military aircraft manufacturer, Nakajima Aircraft Company. The recognition of this site not only highlights its architectural significance but also acknowledges the transition from a military facility to an institution focused on 'peace and reconciliation.'

The building stands as a reminder of its past, with remnants such as a concrete base believed to have once held a heavy machine gun during World War II. This historical context adds depth to the university’s mission, which emphasizes the importance of peace, demonstrating how places with militaristic histories can evolve into centers for learning and understanding. Teachers and historians at ICU are studying this transformation, particularly focusing on how the site's history aligns with contemporary values of peace and education.

ICU's location also carries significance, as it was originally the research facility for Nakajima Aircraft, a leader in military aviation during the war, and now sits adjacent to a modern facility operated by Subaru, a successor of the old company. The university’s commitment to fostering a harmonious future reflects a broader societal reckoning with Japan's wartime past and the ongoing responsibility for historical memory in education.