If you know this, you can prove you’re an Ashiya expert: it’s time for the “Ashiya Quiz” corner.
Here’s today’s quiz↓
Q. Which opened first in front of JR Ashiya Station: “Mont et Mer” or “Laporte”?
a. Mont et Mer
b. Laporte
Ashitsuu correct answer rate: 50%
If you haven’t seen the answer yet, give it a try♪

“Mont et Mer” is a shopping complex directly connected to JR Ashiya Station! “Daimaru Ashiya” is also in the same building.

“Laporte” is also directly connected to JR Ashiya Station, but this shopping complex is located across the pedestrian deck.
It consists of four buildings: the Main Building, East Building, West Building, and North Building. Between the Main Building and East Building is “Hotel Takezono,” also well known as a regular lodging spot for baseball teams.

Both “Mont et Mer” and “Laporte” are now familiar favorites among Ashiya residents, but which one opened first…!?
The correct answer is a. Mont et Mer.
Mont et Mer opened in 1980, while Laporte was completed in November 1986, six years later.
The sources are here and here.

By the way, also in front of JR Ashiya Station, “Arpa Ashiya,” which has many restaurants on the first floor, was completed in November 1983, while the condominium “La Mall Ashiya,” which has restaurants as well as public and welfare facilities on the first and second floors, was completed in October 1993.
So in order of opening, it goes:
Mont et Mer→Arpa Ashiya→Laporte→La Mall Ashiya
That’s the order. Now you know! Even if this comes up on All-Star Thanksgiving Festival, you’re all set!

