It's been one year since Honmachi Hotel opened.

I'm constantly reminded that the true charm of the Honmachi Shopping Street lies in its people.

The reason I wanted to build a hotel in this shopping street was precisely because I wanted more people to know about the wonderful individuals here.

Starting this month, I'd like to introduce some of the people from the Honmachi Shopping Street, little by little.

Our first feature is Takemura-san from "Takemura Glass," who always greets us with a gentle smile. I love his smile so much that we used his photo as the very first image on the Honmachi Hotel website.

It brings a sense of peace every time I see it.

Takemura Glass is located in the heart of the Honmachi Shopping Street arcade and has been cherished by the local community for many years.

The shop's atmosphere, blending seamlessly into the traditional shopping street scenery, is part of its charm as a long-established store.

Inside, the shop is lined with glassware, ceramics, tableware, and picture frames.

From nostalgic tableware designs to stylish vases and ornaments that accent any room, you can easily lose track of time just browsing.

They also have a wide variety of picture frames for displaying precious certificates, paintings, or memorable photos.

The stylish Marilyn Monroe poster in the red frame that we displayed in the Honmachi Hotel's show window was actually something displayed at Takemura Glass, which Takemura-san kindly gave to us, frame and all.

When I was admiring it, Takemura-san just asked, "Want it?" and gave it to me.

He is always so kind. His smile is irresistible.

Please come visit Takemura-san at Takemura Glass in the Honmachi Shopping Street!

(Photography; Yoshinori Yamazaki)

Takemura Glass

Address: 6-13 Yokaichi Honmachi, Higashiomi City, Shiga 527-0012

Phone Number: 0748-22-0310

Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Closed: Mondays