It all began with a monkey.

Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten put in an order to a potter from England for a figurine of a deer, which was the symbol of Nara.

When they received the finished item, they were surprised to find that there was a monkey riding on the back of the deer.

Though they felt a little bit of annoyance that they asked for just a deer and got more, strangely, they actually liked it. They kept it as a decoration and then as an heirloom.

Then, in 2021, this place was constructed and Sarutahiko Coffee and a sukiyaki restaurant called Kitsune were added.

Shika (Deer), Saru (Monkey), and Kitsune (Fox). All three animals were together here.

As such, it was decided that Shika Saru Kitsune Building would be a fitting name.

Think back to the figurine that had been ordered of a deer, but it came with a monkey.

The owners of the building thought about this too and went back to the same potter and asked for a fox to be added.

But it’s said that they specifically asked her not to add any additional animals.

It’s a lighthearted tale, but it shows how even in the past, what moved the town forward were outside winds.

While setting roots down in Nara, they also accepted influence from outside sources. Preserving tradition isn’t about closing all doors, but opening them.

History doesn’t advance perfectly according to plan, but if you look back, you’re sure to find meaning.

The Shika Saru Kitsune Building is proof of that.