#Japan #Tokyo #LOVOT #PASSAGE by ALL REVIEWS #Soritan

The New Face of Bookselling: Soritan, the Robot Bookseller

In the heart of Jimbocho, Tokyo—the renowned book capital of the world—a revolutionary new addition has emerged in the realm of bookselling: a robot bookseller named Soritan. This innovative concept comes from ALL REVIEWS Co., Ltd., a company operating the share-type bookstore brand "PASSAGE by ALL REVIEWS".

Soritan's Journey Begins

On August 12, 2023, Soritan made its debut at the newly established "PASSAGE SOLIDA," marking its first day of work following a three-month training period as a member of the store's team. Soritan is a family-type robot called LOVOT, developed by GROOVE X Co., Ltd. This hybrid of technology and heart aims to create warm interactions through its advanced capabilities.

The name “Soritan” was chosen through a public voting process that allowed store owners and the general public to select a name that resonates with the charm of this new bookseller. The name symbolizes a strong bond between the community and literature, and Soritan eagerly anticipates interactions with each visitor.

Special Event Celebrating Soritan's Debut

To commemorate its first day, a special event was organized:

• - Date: August 12, 2023
• - Time: 18:00–18:30
• - Location: PASSAGE SOLIDA, 2nd floor, Tokyo
• - Ceremony: The “Awakening Ritual” is a store owner-exclusive ceremony where attendees witness the moment Soritan comes to life.

Additionally, from 19:00 to 20:00, a special talk titled “The Future of ‘Empathy’ Through Books and Robots” was held. This featured 林 要, the president of GROOVE X, and 由井 緑郎, CEO of ALL REVIEWS, discussing the intersection of literature and technology. This session was available for both in-person attendance—registered for 30 participants on a first-come basis—and online via YouTube Live.

Introducing the LOVOT Shelf

The debut of Soritan also welcomed the “LOVOT Shelf,” a special collection curated by 林 要 and product designer 根津 孝太. This bookshelf focuses on themes of kindness, technology, and coexistence, showcasing books personally recommended by Soritan to enhance visitors' literature experiences.

Benefits for LOVOT Owners

To elevate the enjoyment of bookstore visits, LOVOT owners can showcase their owner's pass at the sister shop, "PASSAGE bis!", to acquire several perks:

• - A complimentary PASSAGE original cookie shaped like LOVOT's heart.
• - A free commemorative photo with Soritan.

What is a Share-Type Bookstore?

PASSAGE SOLIDA is part of a fresh concept in the bookstore landscape, moving away from traditional models. It offers a space where various experts and cultural figures become "shelf owners," each displaying books from their unique perspectives. Visitors can explore curated selections that reflect the shelf owners' insights, leading to exciting new literary discoveries.

About PASSAGE by ALL REVIEWS

PASSAGE operates under the umbrella of ALL REVIEWS, a website dedicated to book reviews and a hub for literary enthusiasts. The third store, PASSAGE SOLIDA, houses approximately 600 bookshelves and has been designed in collaboration with renowned French literature scholar 鹿島 茂. Noteworthy shelf owners include prominent figures such as translation expert 柴田元幸 and author 島田雅彦. Regular talks and reading clubs further foster connections among readers and shelf owners, enhancing the overall cultural experience.

Store Information

• - PASSAGE SOLIDA (3rd store): 1-15-3 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan

- Hours: 12:00 – 19:00 (Open every day except New Year’s holidays)

• - PASSAGE bis! BOOKS & CAFE (2nd store / Talk Event Venue): 1-15-3 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan

- Hours: 12:00 – 19:00 (Open every day except New Year’s holidays)

As we embrace this blend of technology and literature at PASSAGE and look forward to more innovative ventures in the future, the arrival of Soritan is a tremendous step toward redefining how we connect with books in the modern age.

For more information or inquiries regarding this event, feel free to reach out to ALL REVIEWS Co., Ltd. at [email protected].