There is a quiet shop nestled in a residential area about an 8-minute walk from JR Kurashiki Station.
Inside the shop, a wall is lined with picture books, creating a space that feels warm with wood.
As soon as you step inside, it feels as if you have entered the world of a picture book.
The picture book specialty store “Tsuzuki no Ehonya” celebrated its 10th anniversary in April 2026 since opening in April 2016.
The owner, Tsuzuki Teruyo, has carefully selected each picture book and has continued to engage with each customer.
We spoke with her about the journey of Tsuzuki no Ehonya as it approaches its 10th anniversary and the thoughts she has cherished.
A Place Connecting Picture Books and People
Tsuzuki no Ehonya welcomes a variety of visitors.
Of course, there are those who come to search for picture books, but also people who want to spend a relaxing time or choose gifts for loved ones, representing a wide range of generations.
What is Tsuzuki no Ehonya?
Tsuzuki no Ehonya is a picture book specialty store located in Kawai, Kurashiki City.
The owner, Tsuzuki Teruyo, worked for many years as a public librarian and school librarian before opening Tsuzuki no Ehonya in April 2016.
Currently, while running the shop, she also conducts storytelling courses and serves as a lecturer for picture book specialists, engaging in various activities related to picture books.
The picture books displayed in the shop are all books that Tsuzuki has read and wants to share. She directly deals with small publishers and has a wide selection of picture books that are hard to find in large bookstores.
Additionally, Tsuzuki is a tea instructor, and in the shop, customers can enjoy the tea she has selected along with homemade baked goods. There are even those who say, “This is my oasis,” as they spend time reading picture books and savoring tea.
Origin of the Shop Name
The name “Tsuzuki” does not derive from Tsuzuki's surname.
When customers come to seek picture books, Tsuzuki selects and introduces several books. It is up to the customers to decide which book to choose from among them.
Because they choose for themselves, they can feel, “This book was perfect for me,” or “I want to read more.”
The desire to deliver encounters with books that make one want to read more is embedded in the name “Tsuzuki no Ehonya.”
Ten Years Built Year by Year
At the beginning of the business, all picture book covers were displayed in a way that made them visible, known as “men-dashi.” However, now the shelves are filled with picture books, and there are more vertical placements as well.
Exhibitions of original illustrations by picture book authors and talk events are unique attractions of Tsuzuki no Ehonya.
The adult reading event “Ehonnoyakai,” held once a month, will reach its 90th session in September 2026 since its start in 2018.
“Picture books are meant to be read to you,” Tsuzuki says.
When reading by oneself, the focus is on following the text, but adults can savor the illustrations more deeply when someone reads to them.
Her desire to deliver the charm of picture books not only to children but also to adults is reflected in her selection of each book, events, and interactions with customers.
Reflecting on the past ten years, we spoke about the thoughts she has cherished and her vision for the next ten years.
Data on Tsuzuki no Ehonya
| Name | Tsuzuki no Ehonya |
|---|---|
| Address | 694-7 Kawai, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 086-476-0415 |
| Parking | Available |
| Business Hours | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
| Regular Holidays | Wednesday, Thursday 21st of every month |
| Website | Tsuzuki no Ehonya |
