Unveiling a Unique Craft Gin from the Seibu Line
In a remarkable initiative, _CONVENI, managed by Nou Corporation, located in Nerima, Tokyo, is set to launch a unique craft gin made from local underutilized materials along the Seibu line. Collaborating with TATEYAMA GIN distillery and Peace Soy Milk, this gin aims not only to create a distinctive flavor but also to promote sustainability and support local producers. The crowdfunding campaign for this project began on August 17, 2026, with a target fund of 300,000 yen, running until October 25, 2026. Contributions will allow supporters to experience a product born from the rich landscapes of the Seibu line, with plans to start deliveries in mid-November.
Harnessing Untapped Local Resources
The craft gin's botanical ingredients will consist of by-products that would typically go to waste, such as the leftover Mizunara wood from factories, pruned grape and fig leaves, and okara created during the soy milk production process. These elements represent the local ecosystem, enriched further by the addition of tea leaves from Sayama, a region known for its tea production.
TATEYAMA GIN, a small distillery located in Tateyama City, Chiba Prefecture, will be responsible for the distillation process. They will distill each type of botanical individually before blending them, effectively capturing and reflecting the unique personality of each area in a single bottle.
The Botanicals and Their Makers:
- - Mizunara leftovers – Taguchi Woodworking (Chichibu, Saitama)
- - Grape pruned leaves – Tokyo Winery (Oizumi Gakuen, Tokyo)
- - Fig pruned leaves – Soenoen (Oizumi, Tokyo)
- - Okara – Peace Soy Milk (Kawaguchi, Saitama)
- - Sayama tea leaves – Matobaen (Iruma, Saitama)
These local producers have partnered with _CONVENI, reflecting the diverse layers of the Seibu Ikebukuro Line—from urban landscapes to agricultural fields and forests.
The Background of the Project
The Seibu line's surrounding area boasts lush farmlands and greenery, surprisingly preserved despite its proximity to urban life. Since its inception, _CONVENI has functioned as a hub connecting local producers with customers, showcasing products that allow consumers to understand who made them.
This project was born out of encounters with allies in local sustainability efforts, such as Ishibashi from Peace Soy Milk, who focuses on utilizing okara, and Ota from TATEYAMA GIN, who employs meticulous single-batch distillation methods. Their shared vision to bring attention to 'neglected resources' aligns perfectly with _CONVENI's ethos of emphasizing local products along the Seibu line.
The Store
Conveniently located just outside the West Exit of Shakujii Koen Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, _CONVENI serves as a 'third space' combining a convenience store, café, and bar, curating products from local farmers, bakers, welfare facilities, and craft producers.
Crowdfunding Overview
Project Name: Making Craft Gin from Untapped Resources Along the Seibu Line
Platform: CAMPFIRE
Target Amount: 300,000 yen
Duration: August 17, 2026 – October 25, 2026
Method: All-in basis
Rewards: Seven tiers ranging from 1,000 yen to 50,000 yen
Product Details: Limited production of 500ml and 100ml bottles
Seller: CONVENI (3-23-15, Shakujii-cho, Nerima, Tokyo)
Manufacturer: Tateyama Brewing Co. (1758 Hojomachi, Tateyama, Chiba)
Limited quantities available; see project page for details.
Upcoming Schedule
- - September to October 2026: Final adjustments on blends and finalizing bottle & label specifications
- - Early November 2026: End of crowdfunding
- - Mid-November 2026: Production, shipping, and reward deliveries begin
- - Late November 2026: Invite-only reveal event (tentative)
- - Late December 2026: Store reveal event (tentative)
A Final Note
From a small space at the station, _CONVENI aims to show a broader landscape rich in local resources. This craft gin embodies our endeavors and belief that small, individual elements can unify into a beautiful representation of the Seibu line's landscape, communicated through its flavors and aromas.
Company Overview
- - Company Name: Nou Corporation
- - Representative: Yasuyuki Fukatsu
- - Location: 3-23-15, Shakujii-cho, Nerima, Tokyo
- - Business Description: Operation of _CONVENI food retail store; curation and wholesale of regional products
- - Hours: Monday, Thursday, Saturday 11:00–21:00 / Friday 11:00–19:00 / Sunday 11:00–18:00 (Closed Tuesday and Wednesday)
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding this matter:
Yasuyuki Fukatsu, Nou Corporation
Email:
[email protected]
Note: Alcohol consumption is prohibited for those under 20 years of age.
_Nou Corporation is committed to addressing a range of lifestyle challenges through various projects, including graphic design, interior products, digital content, installations, hardware, and service development, aimed at enhancing societal standards._