The cherry blossom season has passed, greenery is sprouting, and the weather is warming up. It’s the kind of time when you want to go somewhere, eat something delicious, and make lasting memories with your children.
As I was thinking about this, I came across an event called “Curry and Books” being held at Ario Kurashiki.
It seemed like the perfect event for my children, who love to eat, and me, who loves books, so I decided to check it out.
The information provided was current when this article was published in May 2025. Please note that it may differ from current information.
From curry and books to sweets and drinks! 53 vendors from inside and outside the prefecture gather
“Curry and Books” is organized by Saj, which plans events, and this was its fourth edition.
The venues were the outdoor event plaza at Ario Kurashiki and Kurashiki Mirai Park.
Alongside curry and book vendors, there were also stalls selling sweets, drinks, and miscellaneous goods.
A total of 53 vendors from Okayama and beyond, including Hiroshima, Hyogo, Kagawa, and Ehime, gathered for the event.
The venue was bustling with families, people who had come alone, groups of friends, and many others.
A lineup of distinctive curries and books! In search of a fateful encounter
As soon as I arrived, the aroma of curry was wafting through the air from somewhere. The smell immediately whetted my appetite.
I arrived just after the event began, a little after 10 a.m. There were already lines at popular vendors, and the lively atmosphere got me excited.
The food area featured a diverse range of vendors, with curries ranging from authentic Indian flavors to vegetable-packed varieties and curry made with goat meat.
The book area offered a wide selection of books in many genres, including carefully selected used books and picture books chosen by the shop owners.
Under the blue sky, visitors sought out their favorite curries or browsed the books at their leisure. Everyone enjoyed finding something they liked.
Two fragrant, spice-filled curries from SATISFACTION CURRY&CAFE
First, I decided to have some curry to satisfy my hunger. The appeal of being able to enjoy two kinds of curry on one plate led me to choose SATISFACTION CURRY&CAFE.
The spices were fragrant and pronounced, yet the curry was also mellow. It wasn’t very spicy, so children and people who don’t like spicy food could savor it at their leisure.
Colorful donuts from 2626 DONUTS that delight the eyes and the palate
2626 DONUTS donuts are brightly colored. Just looking at them lifts your spirits.
I bought donuts served in a cup. The bite-sized donuts were easy to eat and perfect for snacking as I walked around.
The sweetness of the dessert stood out after the spicy curry, making it especially delicious.
Enjoy a relaxing moment surrounded by books
Even with people gathered around, the book area had a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere.
There were picture books, and the children’s eyes lit up. One shop had a selection of books about curry and rice. You could feel the shop owner’s love for books and for the “Curry and Books” event.
Books were lined up in abundance, and visitors picked up the ones that caught their eye. I wonder if anyone found the one book that was meant for them.
From the Writer
There were so many vendors at the venue that it was hard to decide where to go.
There were also stalls selling bread, coffee, and craft beer. This was an event that anyone could easily join, not just people who came for curry and books.
Being able to enjoy a meal in a picnic-like atmosphere under clear skies is one of the special pleasures of an outdoor event.
The casual conversations with the vendors were pleasant, and I enjoyed the sense of connection. I ate plenty, browsed books, and spent a day that left me feeling satisfied in both body and mind.
Curry and Books event details
| Name | Curry and Books |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, April 27, 2025 10 a.m.–4 p.m. |
| Location | 12-2 Kotobukicho, Kurashiki City |
| Admission (tax included) | Free |
| Website | Saji Instagram |
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