As autumn deepens, the Kanto region is coming alive in full color with vibrant foliage everywhere. During this beautiful autumn season, we visitedĀ Hakone, one of Japanās most beloved travel destinations. Itās an easy trip from Tokyo, surrounded by mountains, rich nature, and peaceful scenery. Because of its accessibility and beauty, Hakone attracts visitors from all over the world.
The reason we came to Hakone was to visit Naraya CafƩ.
The cafĆ© is part of a charming complex created by renovating a group of buildings over 50 years old. This Naraya space now includes a cafe, an onsen footbath, a small gallery, a shop, and even a sauna. Everywhere you go, you can admire the beautiful mountain views that define Hakoneās landscape.
The atmosphere feels like a hidden retreat.
One of the highlights is that you can enjoy your tea while soaking your feet in the onsen footbath.
In the cafĆ©, they serve the matcha we supply. I enjoyed the matcha latte with their signatureĀ monakaļ¼ęäøļ¼, a traditional Japanese sweet. They first introduced matcha because it pairs so well with the monaka. In addition to matcha, the cafĆ© offers a variety of teas, sweets, and light meals.
In the sauna, they use roasted hojicha for the lƶyly steam, creating a relaxing atmosphere.They also host workshops onsusuricha,a special style of enyoing tea without a teapot(kyusu), where you sip through the small gap between the tea cup and its lid.
You might get lucky and come across such a special experience when you visit. For more details, check their website.
Naraya cafƩ Information
Address: Kanagawa, Ashigarashimo, Hakone, Miyanoshita 404-13 [Google MapsĀ ]
Official site: information in Japanese. http://naraya-cafe.com/en/
Ā
Today's Recommendations
Matcha
#0971.K2 Matsuda Seicha: Yachiyo - Naturally Grown Kagoshima Matcha, Premium Barista GradeĀ
You can make Anko (Sweet red bean paste) easily with this powder.
Ā
Japanese Sweets Recipes
Nama Yatsuhashi (Famous confectionary of Kyoto) Recipe
Anko, Japanese Sweet Red Bean Paste, Recipe
