Checking Out Kakuozan!

Nagoya's most walkabout hood has much to enjoy

The East End

The East End, as it is often called, begins in the rather grimy streets of Imaike, but as you go further east, you reach the hilly areas. The concrete desolation of city blocks begins to thin out into just a few main roads, with many narrow streets branching off into quiet suburban neighborhoods. Here, you can see well-tended houses, greener parks, more gardens, and fewer crowds than in the heart of central Nagoya's congested cityscape.

Until the 1960s, the city's eastern area was relatively underdeveloped. In fact, many wealthy families built second homes up on the higher hills outside the city, retreating in summer into the greener and somewhat breezier climbs. Often, these homes were extensive, architecturally lyrical, and surrounded by swaths of verdant gardens.

After the subway extended into the area, followed by the expansion of Higashiyama-dori, the once peaceful and tranquil wooded area slowly became the edge of the city—not quite part of it, but close enough to enjoy the city lights and nights while offering a retreat from its bustling sounds and hectic pace.

Today, the East End is still relatively peaceful, and its hilly suburbs are a significant drawcard, with a distinct lifestyle cultivated by the area's diverse international culture. This can be seen most visibly in an artistic and spiritual area known as Kakuozan. Here, Japanese-style traditions reside comfortably next to a variety of other cultural imports amidst a growing, vibrant artistic community. Kakuozan is an area ripe for strolling and taking in a number of genuinely unique sites, many the result of Kakuozan's cosmopolitan heritage.

The most distinguished landmark in the area is Nittaiji Temple, majestically positioned at the end of Nittaiji Sando Street. Established in 1904, this temple was created specifically to house sacred relics of the Buddha, discovered in India in 1898 and gifted to Japan by King Chulalongkorn of Thailand as a powerful symbol of friendship and shared reverence for Buddhism. The name "Nittaiji" reflects the harmonious relationship between Japan (Nihon) and Thailand (Tai).

After suffering significant damage during World War II, the temple was meticulously reconstructed in the 1950s, restoring its former splendor. But what truly sets Nittaiji apart from many temples in Japan is its non-affiliation with any specific Buddhist sect, reinforcing its unique role as a place of unity for all branches of Buddhism.

One of the most striking features of the temple grounds is its impressive five-story pagoda, completed in 1984. This architectural wonder is rich in symbolism, representing the five elements: earth, water, fire, wind, and void (space). Adding to its distinctive character, Nittaiji incorporates Thai stylistic elements, including a gold statue of the Buddha and a gold-leaf tablet inscribed by the King of Thailand to commemorate the temple's rebuilding in the 1980s.

However, as with many of Japan's temples and shrines, it is not just the building that captivates visitors but also the vibrant community surrounding it. This community's continuous activity and engagement breathe life into Nittaiji Temple, making it a dynamic center of culture and spirituality.

The energetic community surrounding the temple truly comes to life on the 21st of each month during the Kakuozan Temple Fair. This lively market is filled with energy and features a wide variety of vendors offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique goods. The air is humming with the sounds of bustling activity and friendly conversation, creating a festive atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors eager to experience the area's rich culture and enthusiastic spirit.

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At first glance, Kakuozan may not appear packed with traditional sightseeing spots. But, in reality, it's a place where magic lies in exploration. Wander through its charming streets at your own pace, and you'll effortlessly discover hidden gems—quirky shops, cozy cafes, unique restaurants, and stylishly evocative bars—all waiting to be stumbled upon and enjoyed.

Historical Sites

Yokiso Villa
A Testament to Cultural Fusion and Historic Charm

Nestled in the heart of Kakuozan, Yokiso Villa is a vibrant symbol of the area's rich cultural history. Originally built by Suketami Ito, the 15th head of the Ito family and the visionary founder of Nagoya's Nagoya's Matsuzakaya department stores, Yokiso once sprawled across an expansive estate. While much of the villa was lost during World War II, the main hall remained intact and continues to serve as a vital center for cultural exchanges and events focused on preserving pre-Meiji Era architecture and traditions.

Despite the pressures of modernization, Yokiso Villa retains its distinctive, retro charm. Its interiors reveal an eclectic mix of design influences, showcasing opulent Indian murals, a grand stage for entertaining, and outside, the meticulously maintained Japanese gardens that evoke a serene beauty.

Constructed between 1918 and 1937, Yokiso Villa embodies the legacy of Ito Jirozaemon Suketami XV, the first president of Matsuzakaya Department Store. The villa's garden features unique attractions, including the Sanshotei tea ceremony room and the picturesque Hakuun Bridge. This corridor bridge adds to the site's elegance. Choshokaku, once a guesthouse, is a stand-out feature that highlights an intriguing blend of Japanese, Indian, English, and other international architectural styles, reflecting the global inspiration that defined Suketami's vision.

Today, Yokiso Villa is recognized as an important cultural site, with five buildings designated as Tangible Cultural Properties by the city of Nagoya. This designation underscores the villa's significance as a place where historical preservation meets cross-cultural celebration, offering visitors a glimpse into both the grandeur of the past and the diverse spirit that continues to shape the community.

Yokiso Villa:
Open: 9:30 – 16:30
Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a holiday), and New Year holidays (December 29 – January 3)

Yokiso consists of two main areas: Minamien (Southern Garden) and Kitason (Northern Garden). The Kitason Garden is open to the public free of charge, while entry to Choshokaku in the Minamien requires an admission fee.

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Admission:
Kitason Garden: Free
Choshokaku (Minamien): Entrance fee required

General/High School & University Students:
¥300 (Groups 20+ ¥240)
City Residents 65+:
¥100 (Groups 20+ ¥80)
Junior High & Younger:
Free
TEL: (052) 759-4450
Website

Art

Tamesaburo Memorial Museum
A Cultural Gem Near Nittaiji Temple

The Tamesaburo Memorial Museum offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and art, nestled near the tranquil Nittaiji Temple. Originally the residence of businessman Tamesaburo Furukawa, the museum boasts an exquisite Sukiya-style building surrounded by an impeccably maintained Japanese garden. Visitors can wander through rooms adorned with beautiful art pieces while enjoying the serene ambiance of the garden.

Sukiya de Café is a charming tea house within the museum grounds where guests can savor freshly prepared matcha green tea and seasonal Japanese sweets. The café'scafé's setting, with large windows overlooking the lush garden, enhances the cultural experience and provides a peaceful spot to unwind and appreciate traditional aesthetics.

A visit to the Tamesaburo Memorial Museum and Sukiya de Café blends art, history, and Japanese hospitality, making it an essential stop in the area.

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Tamesaburo Memorial Museum
Open: 10:00–17:00 (Last entry 16:30)
Closed: Mon.
Next day, if Mon. is a holiday
During exhibition changes.

Adults: ¥1,000
High School Students: ¥500
Free for junior high school students and younger
Tel: (052) 763-1991
Website

Kakuozan Apartments
An iconic art collective

The Kakuozan Apartments art collective is a cultural gem near the temple, embodying the vibrant spirit of the local art scene. This eclectic space, set in a retro building with nearly 50 years of history, has been a hub for artists, creatives, and art enthusiasts since its establishment. A visit to the Kakuozan Apartments is a must when exploring Kakuozan, as it provides an authentic taste of the local culture and creative expression.

The apartments serve as both a gallery and a community space, showcasing a range of monthly rotating exhibitions that highlight the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can expect to find an array of handmade goods, homewares, and one-of-a-kind art pieces that reflect the area's diverse and innovative talent.

The charm of Kakuozan Apartments lies in the art it houses and the community it fosters. The space is a gathering point for artists to share ideas, collaborate, and engage with visitors, making it more than just a gallery—it's a living, breathing testament to the creative pulse of Kakuozan. The surrounding neighborhood is known for its colorful atmosphere, with murals, street art, and independent shops adding to the artistic ambiance. This local art scene is fueled by passionate individuals who value community, culture, and the joy of expression.

To visit the Kakuozan Apartments, take a stroll along Nittaiji Sando, turn left at the corner with the three-car garage, walk a little further, then make a right. Look out for the unassuming building adorned with playful, t-shirt-shaped coat hangers strung up outside, signaling that you've arrived at a place where art and community seamlessly intertwine.

It's important to note that this beloved community space is set to close in March 2025, making it even more essential to experience its unique offerings before it's gone.

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Kakuozan Apartment
Open: 11:00 – 18:00
Closed: Tuesdays and Wednesdays

(Open on public hols and on the 21st of each month for the temple fair. Also closed during summer and New Year hols..)

Tel: (052) 752-8700

Restaurants and Cafe's

Eikokuya Curry and Tea Shop
A twisty blend of England and India

For a twisty blend of Indian cuisine and English tea, visit Eikoku-ya on Nittaiji Sando. This specialty shop intertwines India's rich, aromatic flavors with British tea traditions, creating an intriguing and curious cultural experience.

Inside, you'll find an Indian restaurant offering dishes like curry, tandoori chicken, and naan, paired with the shop's diverse selection of teas. While the curry is somewhat different from what you will find elsewhere, vegetarian options are available, catering to various dietary needs and ensuring everyone can enjoy their meal.

Eikoku-ya also features a cozy café and tea house stocked with beautifully packaged teas, including original blends, herbal infusions, spices, and essential tea accessories.

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Eikokuya
Open: 10:00 – 19:00
Closed: Mondays
Tel: (052) 763-8477
Website

Yosuga Coffee
A coffee shop fostering connection

Located just 10 seconds from Kakuozan Station, Yosuga Coffee is a specialty shop dedicated to providing exceptional coffee and matcha experiences. The shop exclusively offers single-origin coffee and matcha, allowing customers to savor the nuanced flavors and aromas that each unique variety provides. Their commitment to quality extends to carefully curated homemade sweets that pair perfectly with both their coffee and matcha selections.

YOSUGA means "connection" or "bond," which encapsulates the shop's mission to foster meaningful relationships and experiences through the shared love of coffee and matcha. Every cup served at Yosuga Coffee reflects this ethos, using only specialty-grade coffee beans. The espresso is made with different beans each day, providing an ever-changing flavor profile that invites guests to explore and find their favorite blend. From rich and complex café lattes to classic espressos, each drink offers a distinct taste journey.

The matcha at Yosuga Coffee is sourced directly from a single farm in Wazuka, Kyoto, renowned for producing some of the finest matcha in Japan. Just like their coffee, the matcha offerings highlight the unique characteristics of the high-quality ingredients. The matcha latte is a stand-out, made using steamed milk from an espresso machine to create a dense, silky texture that elevates it beyond standard matcha drinks.

Yosuga Coffee also hosts latte art seminars, perfect for those looking to learn the skill or simply experience it for the first time. These sessions are designed to help participants grasp both the theory and technique of latte art, making it easier to replicate at home.

The shop also operates as a rental space for various activities, supporting individuals interested in gaining experience in new business ventures, from coffee and baked goods sales to fitness classes like yoga and pilates.

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Open:
Sun: 9:00–18:00
Mon, Tue, Fri: 11:00–18:00
Wed, Thu: Closed
Sat: 9:00–18:00

Website

Komeda Coffee Kakuozan
Old skool kissaten

Chances are, if you've spent any time in Nagoya, you've stepped into a Komeda Coffee shop—they're practically everywhere.

But there's something fitting about enjoying their iconic Nagoya-style Ogura (red bean paste) Butter Fat Toast at the spot that popularized this curious yet beloved combination. The coffee is ok, but the real draw is soaking in the old-school chain-ten charm while observing how this classic establishment subtly attempts to entice younger patrons with modern twists on their old-style offerings.

Komeda Coffee Kakuozan

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Open: 7:00 – 22:00
Tel: (052) 757-3521
Website

Maison du Fromage
Leisurely dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner

Tucked away in the heart of Kakuozan, Maison du Fromage is a delightful haven for cheese lovers. This specialty shop invites guests to savor its signature cheese-filled toast breakfast, best enjoyed on the terrace, with the morning sun casting a warm glow. Maison du Fromage isn't just a stop for breakfast; it transitions seamlessly throughout the day, offering everything from leisurely lunches to elegant dinners, making it a perfect spot for any occasion.

Maison du Fromage

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Open: 9:00 – 22:00
Closed: 2nd and 4th Mon.
(if Mon. is a holiday or the 21st, the following Tues.)
Tel: (052) 734-8688
Website

Zarame Nagoya
For donut freaks who want to eat healthy

Zarame Nagoya is a popular spot on Nittaiji sando, known for its artisan donuts that captivate locals and visitors alike. Each donut is meticulously handcrafted, offering a satisfying experience with every bite. The selection ranges from classic flavors like vanilla glaze and sugar to inventive creations such as marshmallow chocolate crunch and strawberry plump, showcasing the shop's creativity. Zarame also features seasonal specials highlighting fresh ingredients, ensuring there's always something new to savor.

What sets Zarame apart is its focus on quality and texture. Their cake donuts, made with plant-based oils and reduced sugar, provide a lighter, moist texture, perfect for those who want a slightly healthier indulgence. Their airy, fluffy bite, Yeast-raised donuts are enhanced by various glazes and fillings that elevate their flavor. The café offers customization options for those dining in, allowing patrons to personalize their treats with different toppings and accompaniments.

The interior of Zarame is equally inviting. Its Brooklyn-inspired aesthetic is marked by wooden furnishings and cozy seating, creating a warm atmosphere.

Zarame Nagoya

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Open: 9:00 to 20:00
Tel: (052) 763-7662
Website

Baikado Wagashi
Small moments of indulgence

Baikado Wagashi Shop is a beloved establishment in Kakuozan, known for crafting wagashi, traditional Japanese confections often enjoyed with tea. These delicacies are more than just sweets; they are edible art that celebrates the changing seasons and various cultural events. Baikado has built its reputation on producing high-quality wagashi, with its Oni Manju as a stand-out local favorite. Oni Manju is a simple yet delightful treat made from sweet potato and wheat flour, embodying Nagoya's comforting and authentic flavors.

Each piece of Baikado wagashi showcases craftsmanship and an appreciation for the small moments of indulgence that wagashi represents in Japanese culture. Baikado's dedication to tradition and quality makes it a real treat for anyone looking to experience the authentic taste of Japanese confectionery.

Baikado Wagashi Shop

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Open: 8:00 to 17:00
(Open times can be irregular)
Oni Manju is available starting at 9:00 - first come, first serve.
Tel: (052) 751-8025

Mitarashi Dango Tsuruya
Savor traditional Nagoya comfort food

Mitarashi Dango Tsuruya is celebrated for its traditional Japanese snacks and street food. This shop is known for serving mitarashi dango, a type of skewered rice dumpling glazed with a sweet and savory soy-based sauce that offers a delightful balance of flavors. Tsuruya also features a menu brimming with local specialties, including oden, yaki-soba, and okonomiyaki prepared in Nagoya's unique style. During the warmer months, guests can enjoy refreshing shaved ice topped with a variety of flavors.

The cozy and nostalgic ambiance of Tsuruya invites visitors to take a break from exploring and savor traditional comfort food that reflects the culinary heritage of Nagoya. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, Tsuruya provides an authentic taste of Japanese street food culture.

Mitarashi Dango Tsuruya

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Open: 10:30- 19:00 year-round.
Tel: (052) 751-7413

京味 もと井 (Kyoaji Motoi)
Upscale dining that exudes charm and authenticity

Those looking for a refined Japanese restaurant offering an elegant dining experience should head with their wallet to 京味 もと井 (Kyoaji Motoi). Opened in April 2021, the restaurant is housed in a beautifully renovated 80-year-old Japanese home, exuding charm and authenticity. The interior boasts a striking 13-seat counter crafted from a 300-year-old red cedar using the intricate ukibori technique, enhancing the natural beauty of the wood. Guests can also enjoy dining in one of three private rooms, each featuring classic touches such as musou-mado windows, kumiko lattice doors, and detailed ceiling designs.

Expert Chef Masaki Motoi prepares select Kaiseki courses, a traditional Japanese multi-course meal emphasizing seasonal ingredients, meticulous preparation, and artistic presentation. The lunch course is available from ¥10,000 ~, while the dinner course is offered at ¥20,000 ~. This commitment to quality and detail ensures an unparalleled culinary experience that celebrates the beauty and depth of Japanese cuisine.

Kyoaji Motoi is conveniently located near Kakuozan Station, making it ideal for exploring the Kakuozan area or visiting the nearby Nittaiji Temple.

Kyoaji Motoi (京味 もと井)

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Lunch: 12:00 (last order at 14:00)
Dinner: 18:00 – 22:00 (last order at 21:00)
Closed: Sun. & Mon.
(Irregular holidays)

Reservations recommended

Tel: (052)750-5942
Website

Bars

覚王山バー (Kakuozan Bar)
If you know... you know.

Kakuozan's hidden gem is well known by those who know, so it may not seem as obvious as other nightspots. However, this is one of those take-me-back experiences where time slowly fades into a warmly lit bubble of quiet conversation and satisfying drinks.

This isn't your grog fest but an upscale yet unpretentious bar where people go to bathe in the diffused atmosphere and a few well-priced drinks. It is where you will find yourself after looking everywhere else. Snatch a moment of the relaxed shadowy vibe and the click of a drink on a softly worn wooden counter. You deserve it.

覚王山バー (Kakuozan Bar)

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Open:
Mon. to Fri: 20:00 – 2:00
Sun: 18:00 – 2:00
TEL: (052) 764-5431

Bar Cask
Aged to perfection

Established in 1998, this warm and inviting space offers an exceptional experience for whisky enthusiasts and casual patrons alike. Nestled in a peaceful residential area, the bar greets guests with the aroma of cask-aged whiskies and the comfort of wooden interiors, evoking a nostalgic, home-like atmosphere.

The impressive selection of whiskies, meticulously matured under the owner's supervision, sit alongside a wide array of Japanese and international bottles. Their cocktail menu includes innovative cask-aged creations, while high-quality beers such as Guinness are poured to perfection. Culinary offerings feature a seasonal menu crafted in collaboration with a French chef, with the katsu (pork cutlet) sandwich being a stand-out dish cherished for over a decade.

Bar Cask

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Hours: 18:00 – 1:00
Closed: Sundays and public holidays
Smoking: Permitted
Cover Charge: ¥800
Tel: (052) 752-8200
Website

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