Interview with the staff about Nyochikudo
Can you tell us the origin of the name "Nyochikudo"?
Staff
In the past, bamboo was planted in the garden of Nyochikudo.
The term "do" represents a unit indicating the size of the store building.
It carries the meaning of a store where bamboo is planted, aiming to grow straight like bamboo.
Do you have a dedicated designer?
Staff
We don't have a dedicated designer, but the Kurashiki Machiya Tape Production Committee is a gathering of volunteer designers.
We handle original Kurashiki design masking tapes that can only be purchased here.
Free experience of masking tape decoration
The free experience of masking tape decoration is very popular among customers. Can both adults and children participate?
Staff
It is very well received.
Both adults and children can enjoy a fun experience decorating with masking tape together.
Once you start, you might find it hard to stop, but since other customers are waiting, the experience time is limited to 10 minutes.
Do you also offer experiences for making badges?
Staff
We also have a badge-making experience.
The size is about 8 cm, and you can stick masking tape on a base and make it using the badge press machine.
The flow of people coming to Nyochikudo for masking tape
Since Kurashiki is the birthplace of masking tape, I think there are many customers from outside the prefecture.
Staff
As the COVID-19 pandemic has calmed down, the number of customers from outside the prefecture is increasing.
Foreign customers are also gradually returning, with many from Asia, such as China and Taiwan.
Tourists come to Nyochikudo seeking masking tape.
Staff
Despite being located at the very end of the Bikan Historical Area, customers are making the effort to come all the way here.
I am truly happy that there are people who come specifically for us.
The flow of people has changed significantly compared to before.
Recommended masking tapes and paper goods by the staff?
Do you have any recommended masking tapes?
Staff
There are tapes that are exclusive to this store, but when you think of Okayama, Momotaro tape comes to mind, and there are also machiya tapes featuring designs of buildings and various shops in the Bikan Historical Area, which I recommend.
Also, foiled tape.
This is a masking tape with special processing, featuring gold and silver leaf.
Specially processed tapes like foiled tape are expensive, with even small ones priced at 280 to 300 yen (excluding tax).
Masking tapes have evolved from plain designs to patterned ones, and now to those with special processing.
When it comes to masking tape, Nyochikudo is the place, but how many types of tape do you carry?
Staff
The number varies, but we have about over 850 types.
New products from KAMOI KAKOSHI CO., LTD. will be coming in, so I think it will get busier.
Do you have any recommended miscellaneous goods other than masking tape?
Staff
Actually, we also have limited edition letter paper.
For example, there is letter paper featuring designs from masking tapes like Momotaro, as well as designs of machiya, chicks, and folktales.
This is letter paper featuring designs used in masking tapes.
When it becomes letter paper, it looks different from masking tape.
Each has its own personality and is interesting.
The future of Nyochikudo
Do you have any plans for the future?
Staff
We don't have any big plans, but we are finally seeing customers return.
We want to create new products and improve the store.
We want to discuss together and liven up the store.
Conclusion
On the day of the interview, it was unfortunately raining. Moisture is the enemy of paper.
As I head to the store, I think about how it’s a day for interviewing a paper goods store.
As I walk while enjoying the atmosphere of the rainy Bikan Historical Area, I saw Nyochikudo.
Inside the store, warm-colored lights are lit, creating a very atmospheric setting in the rain.
Inside the store, I was overwhelmed by the number of masking tapes and my eyes were drawn to the beautifully arranged tapes.
I understand why many customers come to Nyochikudo seeking masking tape.
“Seeing customers happily looking at masking tapes and paper goods makes me feel happy,” said the staff.
By the time the interview was over, the store was full of customers.
A child who came to buy masking tape told their father, “This place is so much fun!”
I truly feel the same way.
Adults also enjoy it. I want to make time to visit again.
Next time, I want to take my time and find my favorite masking tape.
Data about Nyochikudo
| Name | Nyochikudo |
|---|---|
| Address | 14-5 Honmachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 086-422-2666 |
| Parking | None |
| Business Hours | 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM |
| Regular Holidays | None |
| Payment Methods |
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| Website | Kurashiki Machiya Nyochikudo |
