Deep in the mountains, past a lone signpost, a gallery shop emerges—built within the remains of a former somen noodle factory. The owner, Akira Uesugi, selects products by a single guiding question: does the story of the creator’s life move him? One encounter with a tea shop owner who wanted to recreate the scent of a place in a cup of tea led to a blend inspired by the wind that drifts through this place. Through careful conversations with the creators behind each piece, their stories are brought to life.
usuqefare
131-1 Nakayama, Shodoshima-cho, Shozu-gun, Kagawa 761-4303
Access: 12-minute drive from Tonosho Port or Ikeda Port
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Places with Connections
Guide: Michiyo Uesugi, usuqefare
For Spring Water Up in the Mountains
Up the mountain path in front of my shop is Gokokuji Temple. There is a natural spring deep within the temple grounds, and our family often goes to collect water for cooking. It is said to be a sacred spring that never runs dry, no matter the weather, and has long nourished the terraced rice fields nearby and the daily lives of people in this area. We also brew the coffee we serve at the shop with this water. Every day, we live here grateful for the richness this place holds.
Kobo Falls Gokokuji Temple
2599 Nakayama, Shodoshima-cho, Shozu-gun, Kagawa 761-4303
Access: 25-minute drive from Tonosho Port or Ikeda Port
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