ラクセーヌ

Built in 1982, Rakuseinu is more than just a shopping mall. It’s a town center. Rakuseinu directly translates to “Rakusei New Town,” referencing its location in the Rakusei New Town area of Kyoto. Rakuseinu was built along the banks of the Katsura River, bringing a touch of nature to this urban landscape. The mall boasts approximately 50 shops. It also houses essential services like a bus terminal, government offices, a cultural center, and even financial institutions. Rakuseinu is truly the heart of the community, catering primarily to residents of the Rakusei New Town. The mall’s central anchor store is Takashimaya Rakusei. In 2006, Takashimaya underwent renovations, shifting its focus towards higher-end brands to better serve the changing demographics. The Rakusei New Town area is conveniently located near National Route 9, which connects Kyoto and Otsu. This accessibility presented Rakuseinu with unique challenges. While convenient for locals, the heavy traffic on National Route 9 often deterred visitors from Otsu. This, coupled with limited commercial space, made attracting and retaining customers a significant concern for Rakuseinu. To combat the opening of the nearby Ion Mall Kyoto Katsura in 2014, Rakuseinu took several steps to stay competitive. Takashimaya Rakusei adapted by introducing a fruit specialty store, Kyoto Yaooichi. In 2015, Rakuseinu further expanded by welcoming a Nitori store to its parking area. These additions increased the mall’s overall retail space, aiming to draw a broader clientele. Even in recent times, Rakuseinu has continued to evolve. In 2023, it temporarily closed for renovations and earthquake-resistant upgrades. Later that year, it reopened in phases. The reopening of Rakuseinu is part of a larger urban revitalization project spearheaded by Kyoto City, highlighting its continued importance to the community. This demonstrates Rakuseinu’s commitment to serving its community.