Spring is approaching, and the Bikan Historical Area in Kurashiki is starting to see more tourists.
Since it is a tourist destination centered around walking, even if you want to take a break, the shops in the center may have long lines.
In such cases, I would like to introduce a shop that is open only on March 17 (Sunday), "Oishii-dokoro HITOYASUMI".
What is "Oishii-dokoro HITOYASUMI"?
In the eastern part of the Bikan Historical Area, there is a place called "Nagura Residence".
Until 2022, it was used as the office of the "Kurashiki Machiya Trust," which is engaged in the investigation, regeneration, and utilization of townhouses in the center of Kurashiki City, and from autumn 2023, it has been opened as a shared space.
It can be used for various purposes such as workshops and restaurants, and during the interview (March 3, 2023), it was also used as a one-day-only café.
The shop that will be open only on March 17, 2023, at Nagura Residence is "Oishii-dokoro HITOYASUMI (a short break)."
The menu is only "Sakura Nyumen"
The menu offered is as follows.
- Sakura Nyumen: 500 yen (tax included)
- Onigiri and garlic miso set: 650 yen (tax included)
- Drink: 200 yen (tax included)
Basically, it is only "Sakura Nyumen (warm somen noodles)."
It is said that they use "Kamo River's Ichiban Nobashi Somen" from Kamo River Hand-Stretched Somen Co., Ltd. located in Asakuchi City, Okayama Prefecture.
The onigiri is made with the homemade rice "Kinunusume."
The one-day-only shop "Oishii-dokoro HITOYASUMI" is operated by Namie Fujisawa, who lives in Asakuchi City, Okayama Prefecture.
I asked her why it is only open for one day and why she chose somen.
Interview with the operator
I spoke with Namie Fujisawa, who operates the shop, and Yuka Saisho, who is scheduled to help on the day.
Why did you decide to open a one-day-only shop?
Fujisawa (no honorifics)
I am currently a visual arts teacher at a private junior and senior high school.
While working as a teacher, I have been holding art workshops at the Community Center for many years, but I have always dreamed of running a restaurant.
At that time, I was approached by Mr. Imada (the owner of Nagura Residence), who had previously helped me as a teacher, and he asked me, "Why don't you try something?"
Since my desire to do something and his encouragement aligned, I decided to take on the challenge.
Why did you choose "somen"?
Fujisawa
If I am going to run a restaurant, I want to offer something that I truly think is delicious. That's why I decided on "Kamo River Hand-Stretched Somen".
Kamo River Hand-Stretched Somen is from a company in Asakuchi, and since I also live in Asakuchi, I used to go to the shop as a customer, but I had no connection with the company.
However, through acquaintances, I was introduced to them and expressed my desire to use Kamo River Hand-Stretched Somen to open a shop, and they agreed.
So, on that day, they prepared a special order of "pink dyed somen", and I thought I would make it spring-like.
What is the origin of the name "HITOYASUMI"?
Fujisawa
When I thought about what I want to do in the future, I wanted a name that could be used for various purposes, such as this restaurant and workshops.
I want to provide a place where people can feel relaxed and at ease when they come here.
Yuka, why did you get involved?
Saisho (no honorifics)
We work at the same place, and I was invited to fun activities like meals.
So when I heard about the plan to open a shop, I decided to help out.
Please give a message to the readers.
Fujisawa
I have gathered things that I think are delicious to eat.
I plan to operate in a way that fits the atmosphere of Kurashiki, so even though it is only for one day, I would be happy if you could come.
Conclusion
The Bikan Historical Area in Kurashiki has many shops that attract a lot of tourists.
However, I believe that it is because there are not only tourists but also residents and regular visitors that challenges can be made in the Bikan Historical Area.
I wanted to support new initiatives that start from the Bikan Historical Area.
If you plan to visit the Bikan Historical Area on March 17 (Sunday), please make sure to stop by.
Data of Oishii-dokoro HITOYASUMI
| Name | Oishii-dokoro HITOYASUMI |
|---|---|
| Date | March 17, 2024 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Location | 1-21 Higashimachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Participation Fee (tax included) | Sakura Nyumen: 500 yen (tax included) Onigiri and garlic miso set: 650 yen (tax included) Drink: 200 yen (tax included) |
