Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Jun(e), compiled and reported
One of the most important activities when traveling in Japan is experiencing the local culture and customs. By engaging with food, clothing, housing, transportation, and entertainment, you can immerse yourself in different traditions and history, and also understand the diversity of the world through cultural differences. This time, we’re introducing Japan’s historic house cafes—old residences with long histories that have been transformed into charming cafes full of literary flair. We’ve handpicked four such cafes where you can not only sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee, but also savor authentic Japanese teas. A blend of hipster charm and tradition offers one of the most distinctive afternoon tea experiences.
An old house cafe in Akasaka, Tokyo – Window of Light, with a romantic interior space. The decor and lighting give the cafe a unique atmosphere (Image source / Akarimado)
1. Tokyo – Window of Light
The interior of Window of Light is filled with the warm feel of wood (Image source / Akarimado)
2. Hyogo Prefecture – Gallery＋Cafe “muguet”
Gallery＋Cafe “muguet” is located in a residential area of Takarazuka City. This cafe and art gallery, converted from an 80-year-old residence, offers a relaxing escape (Image source / Gallery＋Café muguet)
The decor and tableware at Gallery＋Cafe “muguet” are full of traditional Japanese charm (Image source / Gallery＋Café muguet)
3. Ishikawa Prefecture – FULL OF BEANS（フルオブビーンズ）
FULL OF BEANS is a machiya-style cafe full of traditional Japanese aesthetics, renovated from a century-old historic home (Image source / フルオブビーンズ)
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