What Are Kominka Cafes?

The term “kominka” means “old house”  referring to the unique architecture of traditional Japanese farmers who built their wooden houses out of natural materials that could last hundreds of years; many kominka have thatched roofs and are made from pine and cedar without the use of nails. Honoured as buildings of cultural heritage, kominka have been renovated, and although some are still used as residences, many have been turned into craft shops, artisans’ studios, private inns, or funky cafes.

Wakayama City Area

Nico

When you’re in the mood for a cup of tea and a piece of cake, Nico’s tea shop offers a rustic atmosphere and delicious sweets. Try the strawberry cakes which are their specialty!

Hikotaro

Hikotaro is recommended for an Obanzai lunch which contains lots of local seasonal vegetables. Try an assortment of home cooked family style meals including miso soup, fried rice, sashimi, curried rice and other family favourites. After your meal, savour hand roasted coffee and healthy desserts made from vegetables.

Happy End

After a day of sightseeing or biking around Wakayama City, the Happy End Cafe is a cute spot to enjoy a snack and a refreshing glass of juice squeezed from locally sourced fruit.

Cafe Lierre

Situated in a lovingly restored 120 year old villa in scenic Wakaura, Cafe Leirre is famous for its waffles. Guests will enjoy looking out at its traditional garden while savouring exquisite coffee and crispy crunchy waffles topped with seasonal fruit from local orchards and orange groves. Five different types of wheat grown in Hokkaido are used to make the delicious waffles.

Arida City

Inokuchi Sanjubanchi

Soak up the ambiance of the past in this family style kominka cafe. Pancakes, French Toast, and Macaroni Gratin are their specialties.

Kannoya

Enjoy the cafe’s specialty - a delicious hot plate of curry - served with rice and pickled vegetables. Often there is piano music to accompany the diners.

Gekkou

Gekkou is known for its delicious pizza served with a mouth watering assortment of toppings: margarita, marinara, quarto formaggio, mushroom, or shirasu (tiny white fish). Enjoy the casual atmosphere and the family ambiance!

Kainan

Kanaito

Kanaito is a beautifully restored kominka cafe popular for its lunches and desserts. Located in Kainan, an area north of Wakayama City on Wakanoura Bay and known for its Kishu lacquerware and Japanese umbrella production, Kanaito is a delicious destination!

Katsuragi Cho

Cafe Kyakuden

Having lunch in a lovely old house is a unique experience. Cafe Kyakuden offers a set menu with various rice specialties and side dishes made from local seasonal vegetables. A delicious daily cake plate is also offered. Reservations are recommended as this restaurant is very popular.