Recently, Johnny's Arashi became obsessed with the Takehara bamboo whirligig, which is attracting attention as an eco-friendly material because bamboo grows quickly. It is light and easy to process, and has been used for baskets and toys since ancient times. While there are concerns about the environmental and health impacts of petroleum-based plastics, please feel the potential of bamboo while interacting with a local bamboo craftsman legend.

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Takehara is known as "Aki's Little Kyoto" because of its history of prospering as a manor of Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto during the Heian period. The symbol of this is the Townscape Preservation District, which has been selected as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings by the government. The old townscape is made of local wood and soil to match nature and its climate. We all know that wooden construction emits less CO2 during manufacturing, but continuing to recycle the house is truly sustainable. The warmth of nature and the beauty of its history can be found here.

Saryo Ichie is a Japanese style café that was built over 100 years ago and was inherited from our ancestors.

Once you pass through the historic samurai residence-style gate, you will be greeted by Japanese sweets made mainly from plant-based ingredients that will soothe your mind and body. The special snack set is a special menu that you can enjoy only with the bamboo tour set with a drink. Only at Bantu can you enjoy it in the VIP room on the second floor, which is usually not open to the public. Takehara coffee, salt candy, and karinto produced by Saryo Ichie are perfect for souvenirs.