>>What do you do for a living?
I own “Shigatsukan+Kuro” which opened last April at the Bikan Historical Area in Kurashiki. I call myself the Owner of the Manor.
>>What kind of a store is it?
It’s a gothic and horror store. We have dolls, books, CDs, figures, T-shirts, sweatshirts, and so on. All gothic and horror goods.
>>Has this always been your profession?
No, I was a clerk at Kurashiki City Hall for fifteen years after I graduated from college. I opened this store out of mere fondness for gothic and horror. I’m basically shy and feel uncomfortable waiting on customers. However, I am interested in other people and what they have to say. I started thinking about quitting my job and opening a store about six years ago.
>>Why a gothic and horror store in Kurashiki?
I know Okayama is more populated and running a store there can be much easier, but Kurashiki is my hometown. Rent is cheap. Moreover, I wanted all kinds of people to come to my store, not just the gothic and horror enthusiasts. I figured that, in Kurashiki, sightseers can spot my store and drop by.
>>Your store doesn’t exactly match the image of the Bikan Historical Area, does it?
It did cross my mind that it might be difficult running this type of store at this location when I first started. At the same time, I believed Kurashiki would accept me as another form of culture. Kurashiki is a generous city. Besides, I think our appearance blends in fine with the scenery. The dark tone of the warehouses matches our image.
>>Where do you go to loosen up?
I go listen to live music. I like loud music and shout throughout the performance in the front row. It looks as though I’ve been in the shower after participating in each performance. I often go to “Pepperland” in Okayama. I also go to Osaka, Fukuoka, and Tokyo.
>>How do you picture yourself ten years from now?
I wish to see many “graduates” from my store. Customers who have grown up, visiting to tell me what they have become. That would be nice.