Interview with owner Kenta Taniguchi
We asked what inspired him to open a restaurant in a traditional house, what he thinks about DAY BY DAY COFFE, and what his goals are for the future.
Moving in search of a peaceful life and deciding to open a restaurant
What inspired you to open a cafe in a traditional house in Soja?
Taniguchi (surname only)
In my previous job, I worked for a restaurant company in Aichi Prefecture.
However, I became tired of workplace relationships and decided to take the plunge and move to Okayama Prefecture.
I initially thought I would leave the food-service industry, but reconsidered, thinking, “If I owned my own place, maybe I could give it another try,” and decided to open a cafe.
After searching for 10 months for the ideal location, I found the traditional house I use today.
Why did you choose Okayama Prefecture as your new home?
Taniguchi
The main reason was that I was drawn to the sound of “Seto Inland Sea.”
There are other places along the Seto Inland Sea, but I chose Okayama Prefecture because I prioritized a comfortable lifestyle, including its mild climate, abundant nature, and low risk of natural disasters.
I often experience the warmth of the people here, and the area is rich in nature, so I’m glad I chose this place.
Thoughts behind DAY BY DAY COFFEE
As you continue running the cafe, what values and concepts are important to you?
Taniguchi
Connections with people are important to me.
I want this to be a warm place where I can talk with customers and where they feel that “there’s always someone here when I come.”
I’d be happy if it became the kind of place where friends naturally gather.
What did you focus on when creating the cafe?
Taniguchi
I carefully planned the interior and seating layout to make the most of the scenery.
Also, since it’s a traditional house, I’ve focused on insulation and repairs in preparation for winter.
I installed underfloor heating using a wood-burning stove and made sure to add plenty of insulation.
Renovating a traditional house must not be easy. Why did you decide to do the work yourself?
Taniguchi
I’ve always enjoyed making things, so if I was going to own a place, I wanted to renovate it with my own hands. That was another reason I decided to move.
It was my first time renovating a traditional house, and there were many challenges, but friends and people who came together through social media helped me, and I was able to bring it all together successfully.
Aiming to create a place to relax and connect with others
How do visitors respond?
Taniguchi
Some people relax while taking in the scenery, while others enjoy chatting with friends or people they’ve met at the cafe.
Some customers see Instagram and say, “I’ve been following your DIY progress!” which makes me very happy.
Everyone is truly so warm, and I’m grateful.
Is there anything you keep in mind while running DAY BY DAY COFFEE?
Taniguchi
I try to talk with the customers who visit.
I want this to be a comfortable place where people can connect with one another, so I value communication.
The future of DAY BY DAY COFFEE and a message
What are your plans and goals for the future?
Taniguchi
We’re also planning to add a sauna, a small dog run, and a motorcycle workshop. And beyond building the cafe, I hope to expand my connections with people even further.
In the future, I’d like to hold events such as markets and local festivals, collaborate with other cafes, and take on initiatives that involve the local community.
It would be great to make this a place where customers feel, “It’s fun to come here.”
Finally, please share a message for our readers.
Taniguchi
This is a place where you can relax while looking out over the countryside. When you find yourself overthinking things or just need a little time to unwind, please feel free to come by and simply let your mind wander.
While you’re here, I’d be happy if you could unwind and enjoy a delicious Eggs Benedict, sweets, and drinks.
From the Writer
From the moment I stepped inside, the cafe had a comforting feel, as if I were enveloped in a gentle atmosphere. Outside the windows, the expansive countryside stretches out, and time passes peacefully, making you want to take a deep breath.
Taniguchi is gentle and easy to talk to, and as I listened to him, I could feel his passionate desire to cherish human connections through this place.
Whether you spend time chatting with someone or gazing at the scenery alone, you’re sure to feel completely relaxed at this cafe.
I’m excited to see how DAY BY DAY COFFEE takes root in the community in the years ahead.
DAY BY DAY COFFEE Information
| Name | DAY BY DAY COFFEE |
|---|---|
| Address | 2026 Yamada, Soja City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | None |
| Parking | Available 5 spaces |
| Hours | 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. |
| Closed | Tuesday, Wednesday |
| Payment methods |
|
| Reservations | Not accepted |
| Seating | 15 seats Sofa: 4 Tables: 1 Terrace: 1 |
| Smoking | Entirely non-smoking |
| Restroom | Western-style toilet |
| Website | DAY BY DAY COFFEE Instagram |
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