Interview with the owner, Taniguchi Kenta
We asked about the reasons for starting a restaurant in a traditional house, his thoughts on DAY BY DAY COFFEE, and his future goals.
Moving to seek a peaceful life and starting a restaurant
What made you decide to open a café in a traditional house in Soja?
Taniguchi
In my previous job, I worked as an employee at a restaurant company in Aichi Prefecture.
However, I became exhausted from human relationships and decided to move to Okayama Prefecture.
I initially thought of stepping away from the food industry, but I reconsidered and thought, "If I have my own shop, it might be okay to continue," and made the decision to open a café.
After searching for my ideal store for 10 months, I found the current traditional house.
What was the reason for choosing Okayama Prefecture as your new home?
Taniguchi
I was attracted by the sound of Seto Inland Sea, which is the main reason.
There are other places facing the Seto Inland Sea, but I chose Okayama Prefecture for its warm climate, rich nature, and low risk of disasters, prioritizing livability.
I often feel the warmth of the people here, and I am glad I chose this place with its abundant nature.
Thoughts on DAY BY DAY COFFEE
What are the important thoughts and concepts you cherish while running your shop?
Taniguchi
I value connections with people.
I want it to be a warm place where customers can have conversations and feel that "there's someone here when they come."
I would be happy if it became a shop where friends gather without realizing it.
What aspects did you focus on when creating the shop?
Taniguchi
I designed the interior and seating arrangement to maximize the view.
Additionally, since it is a traditional house, I have also focused on insulation and repairs in preparation for winter.
I installed underfloor heating using a wood stove and ensured proper insulation.
I think renovating a traditional house is not easy. Why did you decide to create the shop through DIY?
Taniguchi
I have always liked making things, so I wanted to renovate it with my own hands if I had my own shop. This was also one of the reasons I decided to move.
It was my first time renovating a traditional house, and there were many challenges, but with the help of friends and companions who gathered through social media, I was able to successfully bring it to shape.
Aiming to be a place where people can relax and connect
What has been the reaction of the customers who visited?
Taniguchi
Some customers relax while enjoying the view, while others enjoy conversations with friends or people they meet at the shop.
There are also customers who come up to me and say, "I always watched the DIY process on Instagram!" which makes me very happy.
Everyone is really warm, and I feel grateful.
Are there any principles you keep in mind while operating DAY BY DAY COFFEE?
Taniguchi
I try to engage in conversation with the customers who visit.
I want it to be a comfortable place where people can connect, so I value communication.
The future and message of DAY BY DAY COFFEE
What are your future plans and goals?
Taniguchi
I am planning to add facilities such as a sauna, a mini dog run, and a motorcycle maintenance area. Additionally, I hope to broaden connections with people beyond just creating the shop.
In the future, I would like to hold events such as markets and local festivals, and collaborate with other cafés, challenging myself to engage the community.
I hope to create a place where customers feel "it's fun to come here."
Finally, please give a message to the readers.
Taniguchi
It has become a shop where you can relax while looking at the rural landscape. When you are overthinking or want to take a little break, please feel free to come and just zone out.
I would be happy if you could enjoy delicious eggs benedict, sweets, and drinks while relaxing your mind.
Conclusion
From the moment I stepped into the shop, there was a pleasant comfort that wrapped around me like a gentle air. Outside the window, a sprawling rural landscape unfolds, and there flows a calm time that makes you want to take a deep breath.
Taniguchi is a calm and easy-to-talk-to person, but as I listened to him, his passionate desire to cherish connections with people through this place came through.
Whether spending time chatting with someone or gazing at the scenery alone, you can surely relax from the heart in this shop.
I am very excited to see how DAY BY DAY COFFEE will take root in the community in the future.
Information about DAY BY DAY COFFEE
| Name | DAY BY DAY COFFEE |
|---|---|
| Address | 2026 Yamada, Soja City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | None |
| Parking | Available 5 cars |
| Business Hours | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Closed | Tuesday, Wednesday |
| Payment Methods |
|
| Reservations | Not accepted |
| Seating | 15 seats, Sofa: 4, Tables: 1 Terrace: 1 |
| Smoking | Completely non-smoking |
| Toilet | Western-style toilet |
| Website | DAY BY DAY COFFEE Instagram |
