Why did you decide on Gotenyama?

We found the Gotenyama area while looking for a property in Kichijoji. Having spent my youth in the stores of Kichijoji's great seniors, I wanted to give something back to Kichijoji and had been thinking about establishing a base in Kichijoji someday. We thought Gotenyama would be perfect for us because it is close to Inokashira Park in Kichijoji, which has a gentleness that is different from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The best thing about Gotenyama.

Patagonia is located in the Gotenyama area, and I think it is very nice that Patagonia's stores create an organic impression, which directly reinforces the impression of the Gotenyama area. This is because Kichijoji is a residential area, which gives the impression of caring for people's bodies. Patagonia's organic impression fits well with this town, and I think it fosters the atmosphere of Kichijoji.

The most difficult thing

It is to meet the demands and expectations of our customers. I have the impression that many of the customers who gather in Kichijoji are very demanding about the attractiveness of the store. Therefore, I felt that meeting their expectations is itself an accumulation of ideas, experience, and effort. It may seem obvious, but I am confronting the starting point of my work every day.

How we overcame difficulties

We have come a long way, but we have not yet overcome the obstacles. I am still in the process of devotion.

What we want from Koueikai

I would like to see stronger cooperation with the Ghibli Museum and Inokashira Cultural Park. If we can create a relationship with them while implementing measures to attract visitors, I feel that we can create a unique and distinctive place in the Gotenyama area that stands out from the rest of Kichijoji.

What is the great thing about having a store that you would like to share with those who are going to open a store?

To be present in a city is to melt into it, to become part of its infrastructure as it seeps into its landscape. If we can become an irreplaceable infrastructure for the city, we will feel fulfilled with a sense of contribution.