The prime spot on the main approach 'Banba Street' of Chichibu Shrine.
Enjoy a heart-throbbing tea time in a space that retains the atmosphere of the early Showa period.
"Banba Street," a lively thoroughfare bustling with many people, serves as the main approach to Chichibu Shrine. At the corner, the café that stands out is housed in the 'Old Koike Tobacco Shop (KOIKE Building),' which is recognized as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
The smooth, rounded exterior walls, modern geometric patterned tiles, and wooden fittings that have been cherished since the time of construction create a decorative and charming "retro and cute" appearance. Built in the early Showa period, this building is a symbolic presence in Chichibu that makes people walking in the city instinctively want to take out their cameras.
Once a tobacco shop, it was a place where worshippers and locals would casually stop by and exchange words, creating a space of relaxation. Inheriting that warm memory, we now welcome everyone as a cafe that gently heals tired bodies.
Please enjoy a peaceful moment, forgetting the time, in a classical interior that steps back from the lively atmosphere outside.
Viewing the vibrancy and daily life of the approach through the window
The space that once displayed tobacco and daily goods has been transformed into a seating area filled with a sense of openness, featuring impressive high ceilings and thick beams.
When you take a seat by the window, you can observe the people coming and going on Banba Street through the glass, as well as the vibrant appearance of tourists dressed in Chichibu Meisen. While feeling the liveliness outside, you can quietly savor delicious food indoors. You can enjoy such a luxurious contrast.
Menu's commitment
Delivering local ingredients from Chichibu
We offer a menu featuring local specialties from Chichibu, such as honey lemon squash made with Chichibu honey and lemons, a special game curry using Chichibu venison, and craft beer inspired by the traditional 'Kawase Festival'. Additionally, we have homemade ginger ale, carefully blended with spices like ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and herbs.
various retro menus
In a retro space recognized as Registered Tangible Cultural Property, we offer items reminiscent of a Showa-era pure café, such as 'milkshake' and 'fruit punch'. The particularly popular 'Chichibu Nostalgia Cream Soda' is presented in a classical style with a colorful variety (9 colors), designed to be visually delightful.
Usage Information (INFORMATION)
- store nameKoike Cafe
- placeNipponia Chichibu Shrine Town Koike Building (Former Koike Tobacco Shop)
- Business hours11:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Last Order 5:00 PM)
- Regular holidayTuesday (irregular closed days)
- ReservationWe do not accept reservations for café use. Please come directly to the store.
- targetGuests staying overnight, as well as day-trippers and local residents, are welcome to use the facilities freely.
- Parking lotThere is no parking available, so please use the nearby parking facilities.