Interview with Tsuzuki Teruyo
We spoke with Tsuzuki Teruyo, the owner of Tsuzuki no Ehonnya, about the journey over the past 10 years and her unchanging feelings.
Celebrating the 10th Anniversary
Please tell us how you feel now that you have reached your 10th anniversary.
Tsuzuki
It feels like it has gone by in the blink of an eye.
Authors and publishers tell me, "That's amazing," and "You've done well," but for me, it feels like 10 years have passed by stacking up one year at a time.
Since the beginning, my desire to create a place where people can spend peaceful time has not changed. I hope it remains a place where parents and children can enjoy reading together, and where people can take a moment to relax with a picture book and a cup of tea amidst their busy lives.
Joy as a Picture Book Store
What has been particularly rewarding about continuing the store?
Tsuzuki
Customers coming back later to share their thoughts on the picture books or experiences is a joy.
There are picture books where you blow on various things.
One customer who bought that book sent me a video saying, "While walking under the falling cherry blossoms, my child collected the petals and blew on them."
When I showed that video to the author, they were delighted and said, "This is exactly the kind of experience I wanted people to have."
The events in the picture books become real-life experiences for children.
Being able to know those moments is the ultimate joy of being a picture book store owner.
About the Picture Book Night
The "Picture Book Night" will celebrate its 90th event in September 2026.
Tsuzuki
I have one rule regarding the Picture Book Night: If it becomes a gathering only for regulars, I will stop it. Since there are always new participants each time, it brings a fresh breeze in a good way.
The way of introducing picture books is also free.
There was someone who initially said, "I'm worried about being able to speak," but ended up talking the longest. Anyone can talk about their favorite books.
The Next 10 Years
Please tell us about the challenges you want to take on in the next 10 years.
Tsuzuki
I have two things in mind.
One is to try publishing picture books. The other is to hold courses for those who want to start a picture book store.
Recently, I have been receiving more inquiries from people who want to try running a picture book specialty store during business hours. I hope to create a space where I can properly convey this information.
Reasons for Continuing in Kurashiki City
You opened your store in Kurashiki City, where you had no acquaintances, but what do you think is the reason you have continued for 10 years?
Tsuzuki
Kurashiki City is truly a warm town.
I am from Aichi Prefecture and had no acquaintances or relatives in Kurashiki City. However, friends who help with events naturally gathered around me.
I believe it is because of the connections and warmth of the people that I have been able to continue for 10 years.
Conclusion
What left an impression on me after the interview was Tsuzuki's commitment to valuing not only picture books but also human connections.
She hands a picture book to each person, supporting them. I felt that this accumulation is the reason why she has been loved for 10 years.
Tsuzuki no Ehonnya is a place that reminds us of the charm of picture books. It is also a place that connects people with picture books and people with each other.
Why not spend a relaxing time with picture books and tea at Tsuzuki no Ehonnya at least once?
Data of Tsuzuki no Ehonnya
| Name | Tsuzuki no Ehonnya |
|---|---|
| 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 Ehonnya |
