Interview with the owner of Kissa Akariya
We spoke with the owner of Kissa Akariya, which serves snacks near Gokei in Soja City.
What inspired you to open the shop?
Owner
I had always wanted to live in a traditional Japanese house.
I wanted many people to experience the charm of traditional Japanese houses, and eventually settled on a home that also serves as a cafe.
What do you focus on when making your snacks?
Owner
I value making reassuring treats that let you enjoy the flavor of the ingredients.
Rather than focusing on an elaborate appearance, I want people to enjoy simple snacks that never get old.
I also think about what to include on each plate, hoping that our customers will enjoy it.
I’m also curious about your use of the word “snacks.”
Owner
It’s not really a particular preference, but “snacks” feels right to me. They’re not as urban as sweets or as special as desserts; they bring to mind the kind of treats a family member makes and you eat at home.
The interior is lovely.
Owner
I’ve always liked old things and gradually collected them. Some customers have also given me things, saying, “I thought this would suit the atmosphere of your shop,” and the space has become one I love.
You can also use the terrace seating in spring and autumn, and there are seats in the back for people dining alone.
I hope people enjoy choosing a different seat each time they visit, thinking, “Where shall I sit today?”
The guestbook is an interesting idea.
Owner
When you visit a tourist spot, sometimes there’s a notebook where you can write whatever message you like. I love those notebooks, so I can’t help writing in them.
So I started one at my own shop, and more people than I expected have written in it. Reading the notebook has become something I look forward to at the end of the day.
It feels like receiving a message from each person one-on-one, which makes me very happy.
What are your plans for the future?
Owner
For now, we only serve snacks, but I hope to eventually serve meals during lunchtime. However, I run the shop by myself, so it will be difficult to make that happen right away.
Even so, people have been saying “It would be nice if you served meals too” since we first opened, so I’m thinking about how I might make it happen.
Do you have a message for our readers?
Owner
Not only does the menu on our plates change every one or two months, but you can also enjoy the changing seasons in the scenery outside the shop, from cherry blossoms and fresh greenery to autumn leaves.
I’d be happy if you came back to visit as often as you like.
From the Writer
Surrounded by nature, Kissa Akariya has a nostalgic, calming atmosphere. It’s a place where you can take a relaxing break while enjoying snacks and drinks carefully prepared by the owner.
Why not make a visit as part of a drive?
Kissa Akariya Information
| Name | Kissa Akariya |
|---|---|
| Address | 1001 Minobuchi, Soja City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | Instagram DM https://www.instagram.com/akari.sha |
| Parking | Available 6 spaces |
| Hours | 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. |
| Closed | Irregular holidays |
| Payment methods |
|
| Reservations | Accepted Reservations for the cafe are accepted through the dedicated link. https://airrsv.net/akarisha/calendar Reservations for baked goods are accepted via Instagram DM. |
| Seating | 20 seats |
| Restroom | Western-style toilet |
| Children | Children under elementary school age may not use the cafe |
| Website | Kissa Akariya |
What would you like to know about Kurashiki?
Enter a word to search articles on this site
