Exhibition Hall 1,
Port Messe Nagoya

One of Japan’s largest column-free indoor spaces: 20,000 square meters of multipurpose capacity

In October 2022, the newly constructed Exhibition Hall 1 at Port Messe Nagoya opened. Replacing the original Hall 1—which had been in use since the exhibition center first opened in 1973—the new building is part of a broader redevelopment of the Kinjo Pier area.
The hall features one of Japan’s largest column-free indoor spaces, measuring 20,000 square meters. It can function as a single expansive venue or be divided into four smaller halls using movable partitions, making it ideal for large-scale exhibitions, concerts, and indoor sporting events. To support such a wide variety of uses, Retractable Seating Systems were installed to allow for seamless transitions between flat-floor and tiered seating layouts.

Retractable Seating Systems enable flexible, multi-zone use

Twelve Retractable Seating Systems were installed across three zones—Halls A, B, and C—to maximize layout flexibility. When fully deployed, the systems provide a total of 5,848 tiered seats, and when not in use, they retract neatly into designated wall recesses.
Halls B and C each have one set of facing seats, while Hall A is equipped with one facing set and six additional units along the northern wall. These fully automatic systems are operated with remote control, enabling quick and efficient transitions with minimal labor. Each seating block includes side handrails for safety and rear curtains to prevent access to the area behind the seating when retracted.

Ergonomically designed seating that balances function, style, and comfort

The seating model used in the retractable systems is the LIMS chairs, developed to meet the design and performance needs of multipurpose event spaces.
With a sleek and slim silhouette, LIMS combines a clean aesthetic with ergonomically contoured backrests and seats that provide excellent support. The surfaces are crafted from soft-touch synthetic resin, offering comfort for a wide range of users.

Each seat features a smooth, quiet tip-up mechanism that allows it to fold gently when vacated. The balancing tipping system ensures a slight gap remains between the seat and backrest when folded, making it easier for users to sit. If necessary, the seat can be pushed further back to create more aisle space, enhancing circulation within the venue.
The design is completed with a coordinated color palette: black seats, silver seat number plates on the underside, and row number plates mounted on aisle-end posts—all chosen to harmonize with the hall’s interior.

Facility overview

Port Messe Nagoya, officially known as the Nagoya International Exhibition Hall, consists of six buildings: Exhibition Halls 1, 2, and 3; the Exchange Center; the Event Hall; and the Convention Center.
In October 2022, the new Exhibition Hall 1 and the Convention Center opened as part of a major redevelopment project aimed at modernizing deteriorating infrastructure and revitalizing the Kinjo Pier area.
The design of the new buildings draws inspiration from the form of a ship, reflecting their waterfront location. Exhibition Hall 1 connects directly to Kinjo-futo Station via the Nigiwai Deck, offering sheltered access in all weather conditions. The Convention Center serves as a hub, linking all three exhibition halls through a covered pedestrian walkway.

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