Inspiration
Immerse Yourself in a Charming Cafe and Traditional Performing Arts in Kyoto’s Only Village
Did you know that Minamiyamashiro is Kyoto’s only village? It’s located right next to Iga, Nara, and Koka, making it a perfect place for travelers to enjoy some spot-hopping! Today, we’re taking you to the village’s Cafe Nekopan. It’s housed in a unique location: the former Tayama Elementary School! (Adress: Tayama Nakashiyoji, Minamiyamashiro Village, Soraku-gun, Kyoto)
Enjoy a Quality Lunch!
This cozy cafe is absolutely lovely! You can relax, soaking up the warmth of the old building’s wood. Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and try the Bagel Lunch! Made with carefully selected ingredients, everything tastes so good. For example, this amazing meal might feature chicken ballotine, vichyssoise, a generous salad, and more. Every bite is a delight that will make your heart sing! You’ll also love the fun of choosing from several different bagel flavors. The walnut and raisin bagel is such a comforting treat—it’ll bring a smile to your face!
Try Authentic Wakocha (Japanese Black Tea)
To top off the meal, let’s indulge in an elegant tea time! Enjoy a pot of wakocha (Japanese black tea) with your choice of tea leaves. Benifuki is so fragrant—it truly brings joy! Watch time gently melt away while you relax. The selection also includes the varieties Yabukita, Okumidori, Saeakari, and Zairai.
Actually, we recently had a tasting of different wakocha varieties (at another place), and it was so interesting how unique each one was! Nowadays, it’s getting much easier to find and enjoy wakocha. If you get the chance, you should definitely give it a try!
Dive Into Tradition: Tayama Hana Odori
Speaking of Minamiyamashiro Village, Tayama Hana Odori will be held on November 3 (a national holiday)! With its long history, it is a designated Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Kyoto. Originally a religious event to pray for rain, it is now performed to wish for a bountiful harvest and for good health and safety for families. Though once lost in the Taisho era (1912–1926), it was successfully revived in 1963. Cafe Nekopan will also be open on November 3, so why not come and enjoy both?
