A series on visiting Daimon in Minato Ward, Tokyo (Part 1): A historical stroll through Daimon under the watchful eye of Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower

A relaxing "story of the town" for your busy daily life

As you commute between home and work every day, you might even miss the changing of the seasons.
At times like these, why not try incorporating a little bit of the "memories of historic places" into your daily life?

For example, Daimon in Minato Ward.
You may come across this place on your way to work, but it's actually a treasure trove of stories that will calm your mind. This town, which flourished as a temple town for Zojoji Temple and has stood alongside Tokyo Tower for centuries, is filled with scenery and history that will give you a chance to take a deep breath in the midst of your hectic daily life.

This time, we will introduce the history of Daimon to accompany you in your relaxing moments.
For those of you who want to value your health and lifestyle, we will also be sharing recommended fermented foods.

What kind of place is Daimon? ──From a temple town to a business district

The name "Daimon" literally comes from the "big gate" of Zojoji Temple.
During the Edo period, the area around Daimon Station on the Toei Subway was a temple town bustling with pilgrims to Zojoji Temple . Teahouses and confectionery shops lined the approach to the temple, making it a place where people could relax both physically and mentally.

Zojoji Temple is the family temple of the Tokugawa Shogunate and has a history of over 400 years.
Many people from all over the country passed through this "Great Gate" to visit this great temple complex.

Nowadays, it has been transformed into a business district lined with office buildings, but the vast grounds of Zojoji Temple and old, long-established shops remain here and there, giving you the strange feeling that the past and present intersect every time you walk around.

A landscape that has been watched over alongside Tokyo Tower

As you walk through the Daimon area, Tokyo Tower suddenly comes into view.
This view, seen from the grounds of Zojoji Temple, holds special meaning not only for tourists but also for locals.

Tokyo Tower, completed in 1958, can be said to be a symbol of post-war reconstruction.
As Daimon, once a temple town, transforms into a modern city of buildings, Tokyo Tower and Zojoji Temple, two symbols of the old and the new, have continued to quietly watch over the town.

Many people enjoy stretching their legs and taking a breather on a bench at Zojoji Temple during their lunch break. This space, where the tranquility of nature and the weight of history blend together, has the power to suddenly deepen breathing, which tends to become shallow when we are busy.

A healthy bite to enjoy after learning about history

Places like Daimon that have been loved for generations have a sense of trust in "things that have been passed down for a long time."
The same is true for food. Fermented foods made using traditional methods have the gentle qualities of making the most of the ingredients while gently fitting into our modern lifestyles.

For example, our popular amazake "Koji White / Koji Sakura" at our shop "Kome Dreaming" has a gentle taste and is made only from domestically produced rice and rice koji, with no added sugar.
It's a "rewarding drink" that will instantly soothe your mind and body, just like a moment enveloped in the tranquility of Zojoji Temple.

When you want to take a break at your desk at work.
After returning home and preparing dinner for the family.
Or as a thoughtful gift for someone special.

Why not choose something that will gently support you during the moments in your daily life when you need to pamper yourself?

Even in the midst of a busy day, being able to experience the memories of a historic town can help you find a little peace of mind.
And that freedom may lead to choices that are better for your body.

In the next issue, we will bring you some little-known stories about Zojoji Temple. Please look forward to it.

🕊️Bring the gentle benefits of fermentation to your busy everyday life—
A healthy sweet sake made by a long-established koji maker with 150 years of history. Koji White / Koji Sakura" can be viewed here:
👉View product page