Keibunsha Ichijoji Bookshop

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A few days ago, I arrived early at a meeting spot and browsed through a nearby large bookstore. Walking into the bookstore, one can see books with labels such as 'Bestsellers' and 'New Arrivals,' but most feel much the same, providing a similar vibe whether it's essays, self-help books, or novels. Tired of the same old large bookstores, some seek out independent bookstores as an alternative. Today's story features Keibunsha, an independent bookstore in the tranquil town of Ichijoji in Kyoto. Keibunsha Ichijoji, selected by the British 'Guardian' as one of the Top 10 most beautiful bookstores in the world, is a bit away from downtown Kyoto, having a rather plain journey with little to see except for small shops but enjoying the ordinary Japanese daily and quaint sceneries none the less. Stepping into the bookstore, you're greeted by a space furnished with wooden bookshelves and tables, all made of antique furniture. The creaking wooden floors and the display of miniature books and various trinkets envelop visitors in a cozy analog sentiment. A sign indicating photography is prohibited inside, but upon mentioning that you're writing about the space, the staff readily allowed it. The bookstore is divided into three sections, offering a blend of various items. It felt nostalgically familiar, much like visiting an underground LP shop in Huihyun-dong. Books related to furniture and by Japanese architects like Ando and Fujimoto stood out the most. Among books, poetry, novels, magazines, children's stories, LPs, eco-bags, and pens were various goods nestled. Despite not understanding Japanese and adopting a mindset of 'black being text and white being paper,' the visit was still impactful with several memorable books. Particularly, a map that recalls memories of the artist's childhood neighborhood, embedding shops and streets, left a deep impression through the combination of photos and drawings. Adjacent to the main area, there was a space selling daily necessities like dishes, cups, groceries, and knitting supplies. Originally a cake shop, it turned into part of Keibunsha when the building owner first proposed the transition upon closing. Thus, Keibunsha became not only a bookstore with its own curation but also a lifestyle goods space.