Interview with the chairman of Kurashiki Dream Workshop, which operates Ichigo Biyori
I spoke with Mr. Hideyo Mimura, the chairman of Kurashiki Dream Workshop, which operates Ichigo Biyori, about the motivation for starting the café, the values he cherishes, and his future outlook.
A café born from strawberry initiatives
What motivated you to start Ichigo Biyori?
Mimura
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted me to reconsider the future direction of our business. In reviewing our previous methods, I arrived at a new possibility: initiatives centered on agricultural and welfare collaboration involving strawberries.
In December 2023, we opened a tourist farm to provide a place where people can enjoy strawberries more closely and deliciously, and in September 2024, we started the café "Ichigo Biyori."
Creating a store where deliciousness and individual strengths shine
What do you value in creating your store?
Mimura
What we value is not just because it is welfare, but to deliver delicious food as a proper store.
I want it to be a place where people think, "I want to come back because it's delicious." That feeling has never changed. I also want it to be a place where each user of our facility can utilize their strengths and individuality without feeling pressured.
Regarding the creation of sweets, my wife (patissier Naomi) has been a great support, and I am truly grateful. Thanks to her, the uniqueness of this store has taken shape.
A place to enjoy throughout the year, and a place that connects to hope
What are your dreams and goals for the future?
Mimura
I want to create a place where people can enjoy not only during the strawberry season but throughout the year. One of the things I want to realize in the future is a menu using seasonal fruits and a night café that utilizes the scenery of rice fields.
Although it is not far from JR Kurashiki Station, the tranquil rural landscape remains intact.
That is also the charm of this place, so while cherishing that scenery, I want to make it a place where there is something new to enjoy every time you visit.
And I want it to continue to be a place where the efforts of people with disabilities are conveyed in the form of deliciousness and joy. I want to continue to communicate in a way that makes people feel that such wonderful things and places can be born even from welfare settings.
I would be happy if the initiatives at this place could be a source of hope and encouragement for those working hard in other welfare settings.
A gentle time that makes you want to visit again
A time to slowly savor sweet strawberry sweets in a peaceful landscape.
Before I knew it, I found myself forgetting the busy everyday life a little and feeling healed.
It is a café that makes you want to visit again, not only during the strawberry season but also to enjoy Naomi's sweets.
In the delicious moments, you can naturally feel the kindness of people at "Ichigo Biyori."
Please go out and look for your favorite sweets.
- For café business information and seasonal menus, check the Instagram of "Ichigo Biyori."
- For details on direct sales of strawberries and strawberry picking, check the Instagram of "Kurashiki Dream Strawberry."
Data on Ichigo Biyori
| Name | Ichigo Biyori |
|---|---|
| Address | 3281-7 Nitta, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 080-3871-1515 (only during business hours) |
| Parking | Available |
| Business Hours | Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Last order at 4:30 PM) |
| Regular Holidays | Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday |
| Payment Methods |
|
| Reservation | Not accepted |
| Seating | 27 seats Counter: 14 Tables: 5 |
| Smoking | Completely non-smoking |
| Toilet | Western-style toilet |
| Childcare | 2 high chairs, strollers allowed |
| Barrier-free | Wheelchair rental available |
| Website | Ichigo Biyori |
