Kojoato Jimushitsu

This charming wooden café stands near the western side of Todaiji Temple. Originally, the site was used to research, manufacture, and sell a lactic acid beverage named Futorumin. After closing in 1980, it remained unused for nearly three decades until the great-grandchild of the original founder transformed the former factory office into a café in 2009. The building was officially registered as a Tangible Cultural Property in 2020.

Inside, you'll find nostalgic remnants of the original factory, including vintage glass bottles of Futorumin, laboratory test tubes, and the facility's old signage. The café serves a variety of drinks, such as original-blend coffee, beverages made with Yamato-cha (tea originating from seeds reportedly brought back by Kobo Daishi), and sparkling ume juice crafted from green plums harvested in Kinokawa, Wakayama, and locally in Nara.