Cool Starbucks store - Dazaifutenmangu Omotesando

Dazaifutenmangu Omotesando

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The Starbucks store at Dazaifutenmangu Omotesando is known that Japanese modern architect, Kengo Kuma, has designed. It stands on the main approach to the Dazaifu Tenmangu, one of the most major shrines in Japan. The tourists who visits this shrine often takes pictures in front of the entrance.

Dazaifu-Tenmangu

Dazaifu is the name of local administrative agency in old Japan. It served the entire island of Kyushu from 7th century to 12th century. The reason which it was built in this area is that Dazaifu was pivotal for Japan's diplomatic relations and organizing the country's defenses. It is slightly inland from Hakata, whose port was one of the main points of interaction between Japan and mainland Asia. 

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Tenmangu is one of the most important shrines that are devoted to the Shinto deity of scholarship, Sugawara Michizane. Michizane is promoted to a succession of important posts by the emperor due to his grate talent. But his rivals, in an attempt to undermine his influence at court, falsely accused him of plotting to kill the emperor. As a result, Michizane was exiled to Dazaifu where he eventually died. After his death, a number of misfortunes at court were ascribed to his angry spirit. To placate the ghost, his descendants were reinstated and became hereditary court scholars. Nowadays, he is a popular focus for prayers among students facing examinations.

The design of Kengo Kuma

Kengo Kuma, a Japanese architect, sees in architecture a frame of nature that bridges people with the environment. His buildings are related to the Asian tradition and to nature, using light and natural materials to produce a new kind of transparency.

The building is made of 2,000 wooden stick parts. Along the main path to the shrine, there are traditional Japanese buildings, this building is harmonizes with such townscape, using a unique system of weaving thin woods diagonally.

Honestly saying, this store is very clouded and it seems to be difficult to give you space to relax in the weekend. But I think you may feel the good atmosphere with Japanese cool design. 

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Cool Starbucks store - Kyoto Karasuma Rokkaku

Kyoto Karasuma Rokkaku

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Kyoto was political and cultural center of Japan for over 1,000 years and a lot of temples and shrines were built. However, starting from the middle of the 15th century, there was about 100 years long war period. Kyoto and its suburbs were burnt down and it looked far from the beautiful capital city it used to be. In addition, Japanese historic buildings are often rebuilt after it was destroyed by the disaster, fire, earthquakes, heavy rains, etc.

Rokkaku-do

Rokkaku-do is the temple believed to have been established in 6th century but the building in existence was rebuilt in 1877. "Rokkakudo" means "Hexagonal temple" and the formal name of the temple is "Chouhouji". Literally, the shape of main temple is hexagonal.

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This temple has an interesting origin, it was founded in 587 by Prince Shotoku who established a political system for the first time in Japan, or there is a stone called "Heso-ishi", It means "bellybutton stone" of Kyoto. That's probably why Rokkaku-do was popular for the people in Edo period. But honesty speaking, historical value is not so big.

Ikebana

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Rokkaku-do is not known for the building but the site of the birth and development of ikebana, Japanese flower arrangement. The beauty of a flower arrangement lies in its asymmetrical balance, respect for the individual flower and harmony with nature as a whole. 

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The oldest school of ikebana dates its beginnings from a priest of the Rokkakudo Temple, Ikenobo Senkei in the 15th century, who was expert in flower arrangement and he became attached to the priests there who specialized in these altar arrangements. Ikebana was one of the arts in which women were traditionally schooled in preparation for marriage. Today, it is practiced on many occasions like ceremonies and parties, and modern people are still choosing to study the art.

Headquarters of Ikenobo 

This Starbucks is under the Ikenobo Headquarter located next to the Rokkakudo Temple. If you are interested in the Ikebana, I strongly recommend to visit the headquarter. It has the guide service for visitors through the Museum and grounds, ikebana supply store, and brief visits to classrooms if classes are in session. Besides, it sponsors the seasonal exhibitions and you may watch the exhibits by the masters.

Cool Starbucks store - Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi

Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi

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Kyoto was established as Japan's capital under the name "Heiankyo" in the year 794 and served as Japan's capital and the emperor's residence until 1868. Kyoto is not the kind of city that is simply content to remain as it is. Instead, it continues to strive toward change and development, adjusting itself to meet the needs of each new generation. it is and always will be, a living historical city.

Last stage of the Highway

Sanjo Ohashi (Great Sanjo Bridge) is the bridge over the River Kamo in Kyoto that formed the last stage of the Tokaido, the Eastern Highway between Kyoto and Edo(Tokyo). During the Edo period, the Tokaido was an important key artery for the ruling shogun dynasty to keep control over the country. To facilitate traveling on the Tokaido, 53 post-towns were established along the road. The Tokaido soon developed into the most important commercial route in old Japan.

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River Side

Starbucks Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi is the side of Kamo river and Sanjyo Ohashi. Around this area is used to be the downtown, not only concentrated many hotels and restaurants, but an entertainment area for people of Kyoto. People were enjoying the cool breezes of the evening flourished, especially in summer, and many performances were held in the riverbed.

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During the summer time in Kyoto, this Starbucks also build "Kawadoko" which is the wooden terrace along Kamo river. If you are seated at outside terrace area, you get to see the beautiful view as well as people enjoying Kawadoko dinner next to Starbucks. Moreover, if you happen to stop by on weekends after 7PM, you might see people playing music just right outside of the Starbucks.

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Get-together with tourists

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This Starbucks is also famous for non-Japanese and there are many tourists who are checking the guide and maps. They are often exchanging their information and I think it is a productive and enjoyable time for you.

You can watch the nice view from this shop even though it is not summer season. Kyoto's winter is very cold and summer is very hot. So, Japanese people of former days were making many new ideas for enjoying their livings. I believe It is the reason that Japan's rich and diverse culture is created.

Cool Starbucks store - Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa has an opposite personality of Daikanyama, even though the both towns are near Shibuya. Shimokita, Japanese often shortened colloquially, is inelegant; you can see many shorter buildings on the small streets, glaring neon signs and game arcades in front of the station. There are many university and colleges near by and this town is the resort of students.

Indie but laid back

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Shimokita is famous as the small theaters and numerous live music venues. Currently, it is also known as the trendsetting town. There are many fashion boutiques, second hand clothes shops and sundry stores in tiny area. It is getting more attractive for the people who want somewhat more indie, arty and alternative lifestyle.

On the other hand, the around of Shimokita is the quiet residential area. The neighborhood of the bright-lights district, there are some well-designed shops and restaurants, has a laid-back feel to it though. This mixture and mismatch is the charm of Shimokita.

Inspired by Starbucks

This Starbucks store is located in such a place. "Inspired by Starbucks" is one of the newly redesigned stores that are springing up throughout Tokyo. The concept is “your neighborhood cafe”. Actually, the neighbors get together to talk with them in the morning. The staffs are also having a friendly talk with the repeat customers. 

The interior is bright with modern wood furniture and low counter giving the space a relaxing ambiance. It offers special dripped coffee and handcrafted latte art to give a special and more personal touch to your daily coffee. They have special menu items, “shakerato” which is a mix of espresso, ice and sugar. The bakery selection is also really tasty, with freshly baked scones, apple pie wedges and rich brownies.

Beer and Wine

During the afternoon, youth people are coming to visit it. They are happy to be reading the books and listening music with beer and wine, I think it has a particular value. Besides, you can also enjoy the collaborative works by young artists, photo and paintings of Shimokita's street culture.

Cool Starbucks store - Kobe Kitano Ijinkan

Kobe

Kobe has a long history as a port town where various cultures have come together to create a rich international flavor. In addition, Kobe was heavily damaged by the Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake that occurred on January 17, 1995. However, thanks to the prompt restoration construction, it was completely restored as it were.

Ijinkan

Kobe port was opened to foreign country in 1868, the end of Edo period. After that, the foreign consulates and settlements were constructed in Kobe. Especially, there are many  luxurious houses of consuls and rich traders in Kitano, it is located the foot of Rokko Mt in Kobe. "Ijinkan" means the luxurious house of foreigner.

This Starbucks store was "Ijinkan" of American trader and restored after damaged by the earthquake. It has seven rooms; the dining room, guest room and lounge, and we can enjoy the various interior of each room.

Location

Kobe is located almost in the center in Japan. It blessed with nature beauty such as Mt. Rokko and Seto Inland Sea is known as the gourmet; Kobe beef and Nada Japanese sake.
Unfortunately, Kobe beef is very expensive even for Japanese but there are many good restaurants. When you have a chance to go to Kyoto or Osaka, you should visit to Kobe too.

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http://www.feel-kobe.jp

Cool Starbucks store - Omotesando B-SIDE Bldg.

Omotesando

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Omotesando is one of the attractive town in Japan for the tourists nowadays. Not only there are many boutiques and shops but also there are a lot of people who dressed a unique wear and "Kawaii" character. But it was originally the religious place. "Omote" means front or formal and "Sandou" means the approach to Japanese shrine or temple. Omotesando is the approach to Meiji Shrine which is enshrined Meiji Tennou. 

Backstreet of Omotesando

Each side of Omotesando, it is the home of Tokyo’s vibrant street fashion culture and it is still the main conduit for funkily dressed teens on shopping sprees in Tokyo. Furthermore,  it is redeveloped and regrowing the adult sophistication currently. As a result, it become a attractive and interested area due to the mixture culture of teens and adult.

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Calm and Warm

This Starbucks store is in such a place. It is not a large space but comfortable and good place for relaxing after the shopping. It has the calm and warm designed interior; orange lights, wooden table and leather sofa. The BGM is mainly classics which is different from other Starbucks stores.

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I think all staffs of Starbucks in Japan have a good hospitality and this store's staffs are especially excellent. I believe you will be satisfied with the well-organized service, behavior in a moderate way and nice smile.

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Designer of this store 

This Starbucks store is designed by Hiroshi Fujiwara, Japanese musician and designer, who became a standout in the Harajuku street fashion scene and is known as a godfather of Harajuku fashion. His "Fragment design" (http://www.fragment.jp) is cool and famous for the collaboration with many company; Apple, Nike and