The cherry blossom season has passed, and we are experiencing days that feel like early summer.
Various events are being held almost every week in Kurashiki, and the other day I stopped by the "Konikoni no Mori" event held at Kurashiki Mirai Park while shopping.
This event, which is held once every six months, features handmade goods and gourmet food, and many people look forward to it each time it is held.
I experienced popular shops and workshops that children can enjoy, so I will report on it.
What is "Konikoni no Mori"
"Konikoni no Mori" is a market event held once every six months, themed "Clothing, Food, and Decoration from Dedicated Artisans and Unique Shop Owners," featuring handmade products.
It used to be held at South Village (Minami Ward, Okayama City), but for the past few years, it has been held at the outdoor event space of Ario Kurashiki and Kurashiki Mirai Park.
The 17th edition was held on April 21, 2024 (Sunday).
I attended the event
I arrived at the venue around 10:30 AM.
It was unfortunate that it was drizzling, but despite the bad weather, the venue was already bustling with many customers.
There were handmade products for sale, such as pottery and crafts made by artisans.
Many of the products had a natural focus, and it was enjoyable to discover various things just by looking around.
Additionally, many workshops were being held.
"Kitchen Horiguchi" (Okayama City)
"Kitchen Horiguchi" is a popular Western-style restaurant known for its lunch, located west of Okayama Prefectural Office.
It is one of my favorite places, and I appreciate the convenience of being able to enjoy the restaurant's flavors through their bento sales.
From near the tent, the enticing aroma of curry wafted through the air.
The bento, side dishes, and dry curry all looked delicious, but this time I took home the "Proud Fried Chicken and 6 Types of Side Dishes" (with fried chicken so large that the pack wouldn't close) and the fragrant "Dry Curry."
Both were substantial and delicious, just like what is served in the restaurant.
"Planetary Muffin" (Anan City, Tokushima Prefecture)
"Planetary Muffin" is a muffin shop that does not have a physical store and has previously been purchased by me, so I decided to line up because it was delicious.
They are based in Anan City, Tokushima Prefecture and participate in markets both inside and outside Tokushima Prefecture, and they seem to be regulars at "Konikoni no Mori."
The log cabin-style trailer house stands out quite a bit at the venue.
There were many varieties, and I was indecisive, but after some thought, I purchased the following four types.
- Right: Caramel Banana
- Left: Rich Matcha & Tender Tanba Black Beans
- Back: Aoki's Strawberries & Cream Cheese
- Front: Cherry Chunk Chocolate
With a moist texture, this is a product that is easy to recommend even to those who dislike the dryness of muffins and scones.
"CAFE CANTERA" (Okayama City, Minami Ward)
"CAFE CANTERA" is a coffee specialty store from Okayama City.
They were selling coffee beans with different origins and roasting methods.
All the beans had a rich aroma, but as it is getting warmer, I purchased the "Ice Blend."
I am looking forward to brewing iced coffee with these beans.
Many workshops available
While I tend to focus on gourmet shops, this event features many handmade shops, so there were numerous workshops available.
Among them, my daughter, who was accompanying me, was interested in participating in "Let's Draw Bubbles with Pastel Art."
This workshop is easy for preschoolers to elementary school children to enjoy, where they rub powdered pastels with their fingers to create bubble patterns on paper.
Under the guidance of the shop staff, it was completed in about 30 minutes.
It was framed upon completion. The soft color gradient is lovely.
Conclusion
Through this event, I was able to feel the "wonder of products that show the faces of their creators."
The next event is scheduled to be held in autumn, so why not go and find your favorite?
Thank you for hosting such a wonderful event.
Data for Konikoni no Mori vol.17
| Name | Konikoni no Mori vol.17 |
|---|---|
| Date | April 21, 2024 (Sunday) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Location | Ario Kurashiki Outdoor Event Square & Kurashiki Mirai Park |
| Participation Fee (including tax) | Free |
| Homepage | Konikoni no Mori Homepage |
