Coffee House Takizawake – Coffee Ryokou

Okay. Here it goes. I’m writing an article about Coffee House Takizawake. I’ve hesitated to tell too many people about this small and unassuming café because it’s my secret haven. I’d hate to see it fill up too much—it’s my personal hiding spot when I want a calming cup of coffee. But at the same time, this place deserves more attention because of the wonderful coffee they serve. Takizawake really is a hidden gem.

Tucked away in Kitakoiwa by the Edogawa River, in a small and quiet residential neighborhood, is Coffee House Takizawake. Walking up to the storefront, you might think you’re approaching someone’s home—and you wouldn’t be wrong. The café is a renovated house. You’re immediately welcomed by soft pastels, warm whites, and a cozy mix of wood, linen, and plaster textures. The entire minimalist atmosphere radiates calm—from the design and decorations to the service. My only small gripe is that the counter is a bit too high for the chairs used for the counter seating.

Coffee House Takizawake - counter and table seating

Speaking of service, Takizawake is run entirely by a single gentleman who also works in construction, renovations, and architecture. He wanted to create a safe space where people in the neighborhood could take refuge and refresh themselves. And he has wholly succeeded. He calmly takes your order and serves with a friendliness and precision you’d expect from a fancy café in the heart of Hiroo—but somehow, it feels even more sincere.

The menu is limited to pour-overs and espresso-based coffees, with a few cakes and scones to nibble on. But everything is selected, prepared, and presented with the utmost care. Since it’s a one-man operation, your order might take some time—but sit down, relax, and take in the experience. This really is a one-of-a-kind café. I’ve tried almost everything on the menu, and every item has been exceptionally good. He selects the coffees and prepares them himself with expert attention. All the food is sourced from small artisan shops he collaborates with.

Coffee House Takizawake - roll cake and iced coffee

The roll cakes and sponge cakes are soft and airy with just a touch of sweetness—perfectly tuned to the delicate sweet tooth of most Japanese patrons. The scones are made with a wholesome-tasting flour, but they’re not dry, and they’ll satisfy you if you need a snack. All the coffees have clear and distinct flavors, prepared using the proper equipment, timing, and temperature to bring out the best in each bean. He offers a variety of beans, from natural-processed lighter roasts to washed medium-darks. However, if you prefer very dark roasts, you might not find many options here.

Coffee House Takizawake - strawberry cake and pourover coffee

Japan has no shortage of great coffee shops these days. It’s no longer hard to find a quality third-wave pour-over or espresso. Many cafés offer their own unique twist, but sometimes it still feels like they’re following the same template. Coffee House Takizawake stands apart. It’s a uniquely designed café that simply feels different. If you find yourself in Koiwa or Edogawa—or if you’re a café enthusiast in Tokyo—go seek out Takizawake. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the experience. Be sure to check their website or Instagram profile (@coffee_house_takizawake) for the latest schedule. Like many small shops in these shitamachi neighborhoods, they tend to be open only on weekends or select days.