“(THISIS)SHIZEN” is a different space found in the business district of Kyoto. The atmosphere of the store, surrounded by nature, and the courtyard are in perfect harmony, making you forget you’re in the city. Perhaps because of the many plants placed there, the air is purified and refreshing.
We would like to introduce you to “(THISIS)SHIZEN,” a shop located in a corner of “Shinoukan” which was renovated and reopened in June 2020 under the supervision of architect Kengo Kuma.
Shinpuhkan courtyard
On the right is “(THISIS) SHIZEN”
”(THISIS)SHIZEN”
(THISIS) SHIZEN is a shop that offers the appreciation of Japan’s nature. Based on the concept of “Nature, Craft, Art,” we offer “plants, tea, and alcoholic beverages” made using natural farming methods, as well as Art. has been done.
The store was directed by Taichi Saito, a horticulturist and landscape gardener who also designs and plans landscape escapes. The huge object in the center of the store is the work of sculptor Kohei Nawa. Both of them are very well-known in the industry.
Giant object
Living plants (inside the store)
The giant object placed in the middle of the store and the object resembling stacked disks in the courtyard are the works of Kohei Nawa, and while they are innovative, they blend in well with the natural surroundings.
All the plants in the store are alive, and the large trees even have their roots attached. The branches are lined with “air plants” that grow from moisture in the air, giving the place a mysterious, natural look.
According to the staff, they try to change the arrangement of the plants regularly to maintain a fresh feel. Additionally, the plants on display are also for sale.
“Plants, tea, liquor” that is particular about natural farming
There are no tables inside the store, only a counter and no chairs. This is a new style of drinking and eating while standing or enjoying your meal while walking in nature.
Discerning menu
All of the “liquor, sweets, and snacks” made from raw materials made by natural farming can only be enjoyed here.
Discerning sake
“(THISIS) SHIZEN” in collaboration with “Sawaya Matsumoto” (Matsumoto Sake Brewery), who has a sake brewery in Fushimi, Kyoto, is a particular sake (junmai sake) with the same name as the shop name.
Speaking of Matsumoto Sake Brewery, the sake brewery along the Takase River in Fushimi, Kyoto is a quaint building that has been certified as a modern industrial heritage by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. And the signboard product “Sawaya Matsumoto Junmai Sake Shuhari” is famous.
Recommended by the staff.
We tasted the special pure rice sake “(THISIS) SHIZEN”.
“This is delicious.”
The details are unknown, but it gives you the feeling of Junmai Daiginjo with a 50% rice polishing ratio. It had a rich wine-like aroma and a deep, relaxing taste.
It’s limited to 200 bottles, and once they’re all sold out, that’s it. They don’t sell it online, so you have to come here to get it.
“Already ~. This will be the one to buy!”
When the best collaborate, this is what happens!
“(THISIS) SHIZEN” is a first-class designer, a first-class sculptor, a first-class sake brewer, and so on. I was impressed by the first-class collaboration here.
There seem to be other unique shops in Shinpukan, so it seems like it would be fun to stroll around.
If you come to Kyoto, “Ace Hotel Kyoto”
“Ace Hotel Kyoto” is a collaboration between architect “Kengo Kuma” and LA design team “commune” The sophisticated interior is attractive.
Even if you live in Kyoto, this is a hotel you’ll want to stay at least once.
More details are provided in this article➡Shinpukan “Ace Hotel Kyoto” | Collaboration between architect “Kengo Kuma” and LA design team “commune”