Rediscovering Tradition Koji Saryo Café by Atsushi Suzuki + Transit Branding Studio

Nestled within the confines of a luxurious resort and shopping center in Mie Prefecture, Koji Saryo Café, managed by rice-koji producer Uonuma Jozo, beckons visitors with its offerings of amazake, a delectable sweet fermented koji drink, and an array of other koji-based products. Drawing inspiration from the intense heat of koji fermentation and the architectural heritage of Uonuma, the café’s design reflects the essence of its northern Japanese roots, where winter snowfall can reach staggering heights of over three meters.

A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

The ethos of koji fermentation, where heat emanates as microorganisms metabolize organic matter, serves as the cornerstone of the café’s conceptualization. Mirroring the dynamic warmth of fermentation, the interior space undergoes a transformative journey, evolving with each passing moment. Every element, from materials to colors to forms, pays homage to this symbiotic relationship between tradition and innovation.

Design Reflecting Dynamic Warmth

Central to the café’s design narrative is the deliberate integration of elements that engage the senses and evoke a profound connection with nature. A striking fixture, flushed in radiant red and nestled amidst benches, captivates the eye with its intentional placement at eye level. This strategic arrangement ensures a mesmerizing interplay of hues, orchestrating a visual spectacle that transcends the confines of the café’s walls.

A Symphony of Colors

As patrons recline on the benches, their gaze extends beyond the confines of the café, embracing the verdant splendor of the surrounding greenery. Herein lies the magic of the design—each passing moment unfurls a kaleidoscope of hues, gradually transforming the perception of colors. Complemented by the warm embrace of a red plaster floor, the ambient light dances across the faces of café dwellers, epitomizing the essence of living warmth inherent in fermentation.

Expressing the Essence of Fermentation

The meticulously orchestrated sequence of color transformations serves as a testament to the café’s commitment to articulating the vivacity of fermentation. With each subtle shift in hues, patrons are invited to embark on a sensory journey, wherein tradition and innovation converge to celebrate the timeless allure of koji.

In essence, Koji Saryo Café stands as a testament to the harmonious coalescence of tradition and innovation—a sanctuary where the spirit of fermentation breathes life into every corner, enriching the sensory experience of all who venture within its hallowed confines.