A Concept Shop Connecting the 'Beauty of the Silk Road' and 'Japanese Sensibility' Opens April 22 at the Foot of Todaiji Temple, Nara

The lifestyle brand 'BAN INOUE' from Nara, operated by Inoue Kikaku Hata Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Nara City, Nara Prefecture, CEO: Chika Hayashida), will grand open its newly renovated store located in Yumekaze Hiroba in front of the Todaiji Temple gate on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. This store will be reborn as a new hub to convey the true depth of Nara, the terminus of the Silk Road, drawing a clear line from superficial Nara sightseeing. In addition to a shop proposing clothing and daily necessities made from natural materials such as hemp and mosquito net fabric, it will feature an in-house cafe, 'Kissako Kara.' The facility provides a space where visitors can experience the cultural and aesthetic beauty of Nara's lifestyle, nurtured throughout history, with all five senses. The pre-opening is scheduled for [April 19 and 20], with the grand opening on [April 22]. Concept: 'The Terminus of the Silk Road' From the 2nd century BC to the mid-15th century, the Silk Road was established as a grand trade route connecting the East and West of the Northern Hemisphere. As the terminus of this Silk Road, Nara is where diverse cultures intersected. For 40 years since our founding, we at BAN INOUE have faced the materials nurtured in Nara and committed ourselves to careful handcraftsmanship. As we approach the 19th anniversary of this special location near the Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple, we re-examined 'how to connect Nara's tradition and sensibility to everyday life.' In Nara, bustling with tourists, we want visitors to taste the profound charm of Nara rather than engage in superficial consumptive tourism. At this special location in front of Todaiji's Nandaimon Gate, we offer an essential experience conveying Nara's charm from a new angle, based on the historical background of cultural exchange on the Silk Road. A Special Dining Experience to Taste the Glamour of the Silk Road 'Kissako Kara' The cafe's name 'Kissako' is derived from a Zen phrase meaning 'please have some tea at your ease.' Named after the image of Nara, where East Asian culture blossomed, and the glamour of the Tang Dynasty (Kara), the cafe offers an original menu that combines Nara's local ingredients with the essence of food culture and spices that spread via the Silk Road. To embody the brand's philosophy, everything from planning and spatial design to the menu is produced and operated in-house. A special afternoon tea course pursuing uncompromising quality. Please enjoy 10 original sweets from Kissako Kara, which incorporate the essence of spices transmitted via the Silk Road, available only here. 1. Kara Spice Cake 2. Matcha Ukishima 3. Yogurt Mousse 4. Chocolate Sablé 5. Cheese Cookie and Pink Pepper Cracker 6. Seasonal Cream Puff 7. Spice Quiche 8. Seasonal Fruit 9. Ginger Syrup Granita 10. Millet Zenzai with 2 Types of Red Bean Paste (Served with Salted Kelp and Tea) Manufacturing That Utilizes Nara's Tradition and Sensibility BAN INOUE's New Flagship Store Inoue Kikaku Hata, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, plans, manufactures, and sells clothing, bags, and daily miscellaneous goods under the brand name 'BAN INOUE,' utilizing the charm and functionality of materials handed down from ancient times in Nara. We are particular about careful handcrafting and natural materials that grow richer in texture the more they are used. At this store, you will find highly breathable mosquito net clothing that becomes softly fluffier with every wash, and crisp hemp items. We have also prepared unisex items that can be worn comfortably regardless of age or gender, and relaxed sizes that overseas customers can also enjoy. Additionally, items exclusive to the Todaiji store will be available. Many of the vessels used in Kissako Kara were originally commissioned from artists, and some of them can be purchased at the shop. You can take your time to choose a favorite piece that will closely accompany your daily life for a long time, actually feeling the texture of BAN INOUE products in your hands. Away From the Hustle and Bustle of the Tourist Spot Savor a Carefully Designed Space Passing through the sliding doors designed to look like shoji screens made of mosquito net fabric, a local industry of Nara, a sophisticated space abundantly utilizing indigo-dyed cloth and wood unfolds. You can fully enjoy an open space filled with greenery and light, making use of the lush borrowed scenery around Todaiji Temple spreading beyond the terrace. Store Overview