Inspired by the Japanese folk culture about yōkai 妖怪 (monster), our philosophy is based on transformation, recycling and revival.

Yōkai SOHO was born from the renovation of an abandoned building. In the contemporary Japanese city, more and more houses and buildings are left vacant, because of the population shrinking and the constant need for newness. For many years, old and ancient buildings have been destroyed in order to build new constructions, but, as architects and citizens, we would like to propose another way of transforming the city through the revitalization of cultural heritages and local cultures.

On Yōkai street (Ichijō street 一条通), each shop has its own yōkai, ours is Ao oni 青鬼 (Blue demon), he is particularly active during the ancient New Year (setsubun 節分), and he is protecting our house against other demons!

In 2018, we also got the chance to welcome a new tenant, Studio Ao, which runs an after school program for Junior High School kids.