The first overseas Rilakkuma Tearoom with a strong Japanese vibe opens in Taiwan

By MOOK Scenic Spots Wu Pin-xuan, compiled and reported
 
In Taiwan, the “healing-themed Rilakkuma,” which has a large fan base, opened the first overseas Japanese-style theme restaurant, Rilakkuma Tearoom, on July 21. The Rilakkuma Tearoom fully presents a rich traditional Japanese style, and instead of offering Western-style dishes commonly found in themed restaurants, it specializes in traditional Japanese meals such as “tri-color hanami dango, ochazuke, and matcha.” Among them, the rice bowl is designed in the shape of Rilakkuma’s head—so cute that fans can hardly bear to eat it.

The flagship Rilakkuma Tearoom is located in Taipei’s Zhongshan District, an area filled with creative-style shops. It uses various natural building materials to carefully express elements of a traditional Japanese space such as “earth, wood, bamboo, and stone.” Custom-made tearoom wallpaper and bear-head window grilles blend seamlessly into the Japanese garden ambiance. The seating area is specially designed in three different formats for customers to choose from, including regular two-seater and four-seater tables, as well as single seats and two different themed tatami private rooms.

The Rilakkuma Tearoom has developed many original dishes, each integrating creative ideas of the Rilakkuma character. The tableware is also very distinctive, with various Rilakkuma-shaped utensils all handcrafted based on original designs, ensuring there is no distortion or asymmetry. This allows every Rilakkuma fan to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors while experiencing both taste and visual satisfaction.