During a recent tech excursion, a group of engineers shared a modest goal: to discover a café near the tranquil Lake Kinrin, a location graced with breathtaking views. Their mission? To relish a piping-hot cup of coffee while soaking in the uplifting atmosphere. Well, a simple pleasure!
Okay, so what kind of café is it, exactly? The kind that makes people travel from afar just to savor a cup of coffee?
Returning to Kinrin Lake for the second time, I vividly recall my first visit during the autumn season. The maple leaves were ablaze, but time slipped through my fingers as I circled the lake, almost completing the entire loop.
Later, I strolled to the nearby Yufuin shopping street, and there was hardly a moment to sit down and savor coffee! Speaking of this place during the fall foliage season, it was perpetually packed—reservations were a must.
However, this time, I arrived in early spring, and although there was still a queue, it wasn’t as lengthy. Here, nestled by the lakeside, its unassuming dark wooden door exudes an elegant charm
Now, let’s talk about the name of this café: ‘La Ruche.’ Derived from French, it’s a geographical reference near Montparnasse in the outskirts of Paris.
As I pushed open the elegant door, curiosity swirled within me. What kind of café awaited beyond? And there it was— La Ruche.
The interior sprawled generously, yet tables were thoughtfully spaced, maintaining an air of comfort. In the heart of the room stood a round table, its simplicity drawing the eye.
But tucked away in corners were square tables, accommodating both pairs and groups of four.
As I waited in the queue, I took in the café’s unique features. The clever integration of merchandise as decor left me in awe.
Each item for sale became an artful addition to the ambiance.
The inside shop offers an array of unique merchandise.
Take, for instance, the rice crackers adorned with botanical specimens—such a clever touch!
And that Santa Claus figurine? It’s the sole non-sale item, reminiscent of the holiday season.
Since all the dishes originate from the open-concept ‘La Ruche Workshop,’ where everything is freshly prepared, expect a brief wait after placing your order.
Still in line? Well, then, continue exploring!
This is the Garlic-Infused Oil-Pickled Yufuin Shiitake Mushroom, perfect for salads or as a topping for Italian pasta. And guess what? The restaurant’s lunch dishes also feature this flavorful delight!
In early spring, Lake Kinrin lacks the vibrant maple leaves and cherry blossoms that typically adorn its surroundings. However, what it lacks in seasonal blooms, it more than compensates for with an elegant tranquility and a sense of calm. Whether you’re seated indoors or outdoors, the view from Lake Kinrin’s vantage points exudes a serene charm that invites you to linger and savor the moment.
In every nook and cranny, varied light fixtures adorn the space, each with its own whimsical flair. Yet, when combined, they seamlessly blend into the overall ambiance.
Each unique pendant lamp with its distinct shape and character, graces different corners.
A harmonious symphony of illumination that dances across the room.
Even sitting here, gazing at the surroundings and the view beyond the window, lost in thought, is a rare kind of happiness. Not only do the pendant lamps come in various shapes, but even the table designs are delightfully distinct.
We sat in a corner seat, and right next to our chairs was a convenient little basket for belongings.
Just go ahead and order a cup of coffee. And guess what? The cold-drip coffee here is highly recommended!
As we sat there, immersed in the cozy ambiance, my friend decided to keep it classic. With a confident smile, they ordered a steaming cup of black coffee.
Ice drip coffee is a refreshing delight that’s perfect for beating the summer heat. Now, you might think cold coffee is simply coffee poured over ice, but it’s much more than that.
It was a moment of simple pleasure—a warm cup in hand, the gentle hum of conversation, and the promise of more delightful discoveries in this charming café.
Each sip held a story, and together, we wove memories into the fabric of that tranquil afternoon.
If you’re someone who constantly engages your mind, I believe the magnetic energy and the picturesque beauty of the surrounding hills and lake here can provide exquisite moments of relaxation and healing for your soul.
Café La Ruche
