A 'New Summer Retreat' Born in Nara's Heat: Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten's Shikasarukitsune Building 5th Anniversary Event (June 12 - Aug 31)

The Shikasarukitsune Building, a commercial complex operated by the historic Nara-based company Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten (founded in 1716), is celebrating its 5th anniversary since opening in 2021. To express gratitude for its role as a new landmark in Nara, the company is holding year-long anniversary events from April to December 2026. The theme for the second phase, running from June 12 to August 31, is 'Cooling Nara: A New Summer Retreat.' The event proposes ways to enjoy a comfortable summer in Nara, featuring a 12-meter-long 'nagashi-somen' (flowing noodles) slider, shaved ice made with pure Nara ice, and evening tea ceremonies. With Nara's summers becoming increasingly hot and tourism numbers dipping in July, the company aims to modernize traditional cooling cultures like somen and ice consumption. Various shops within the building will host events such as a 'Somen General Election,' limited-edition desserts, and workshops, offering visitors a refreshing experience.