Fukuoka City is considering closing Sunpalace to make way for a new convention center as part of its waterfront redevelopment plan. The 2,300-seat event space opened in 1981 and has hosted many a famous musician, running the gamut from Steely Dan, The Sex Pistols to AKB48. A City official said they are looking forward to receiving redevelopment proposals for the entire waterfront area and will begin accepting applications from developers in March. At present, the City owns the Sunpalace land and buildings where a private company runs the event hall and hotel. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun 2/22
