Kosoan: the traditional Japanese tea house in the heart of Tokyo

Published on : 18/06/2024
by : Ph.L

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Kosoan, la maison de thé traditionnelle de Jiyugaoka — Kosoan, the traditional Jiyugaoka teahouse
Ph.L

In the heart of Tokyo's residential Jiyugaoka district lies a true hidden treasure: Kosoan, a traditional teahouse offering a timeless experience. Far from the hustle and bustle of the Japanese capital, this unique establishment transports visitors to a Japan of yesteryear, reminiscent of the serene atmosphere of Kyoto's tea houses. With its wooden architecture, Zen garden and delicious traditional pastries, Kosoan has become a haven of peace for locals and tourists alike. Let's immerse ourselves in the enchanting world of this teahouse, the perfect embodiment of the Japanese art of living in the very heart of the Tokyo metropolis.

A traditional haven of peace in modern Tokyo

Kosoan stands like a UFO in the urban landscape of Jiyugaoka, a residential district located some twenty minutes from Shinjuku station. Tucked away in a recess in the road, this former family home converted into a tea room could easily go unnoticed by busy passers-by. Yet as soon as you cross the threshold, you're immediately transported to another world, far from the hustle and bustle of the modern city.

In stark contrast to the trendy cafés in the area, Kosoan has taken the bold step of focusing on a resolutely traditional style.

This approach particularly appeals to the young women of the neighborhood, who come here for a moment of relaxation and escape.

The establishment offers a restful, picturesque alternative, ideal for recharging your batteries or discovering a more authentic aspect of Japanese culture.

Kosoan est une toute petite maison de thé perdue en plein Tokyo — Kosoan is a tiny tea house lost in the middle of Tokyo
Ph.L

Architecture and design: a journey through time

Kosoan's architecture is a tribute to traditional Japan. The wooden house, with its sliding shoji doors and rooms opening onto the garden, instantly evokes the image of a pre-war home. Visitors are invited to remove their shoes at the entrance, in accordance with Japanese custom, before entering this timeless space.

The interior consists of three tatami rooms, offering an authentic experience to travelers in search of a forgotten Japan. The decor, while perhaps a little clichéd, effectively transports guests back to the Tokyo of yesteryear. Traditional elements such as a shamisen on the wall and kokeshi on the wooden furniture add to the nostalgic atmosphere. This peaceful atmosphere, in complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of the modern city, makes Kosoan the ideal place to relax over a cup of tea during a stay in Tokyo.

The Zen garden: a central element of the Kosoan experience

Kosoan's Zen garden plays an essential role in the hotel experience. Visible from the teahouse's bay windows, this small green setting offers a spectacle that changes with the seasons. Particularly remarkable in autumn, when the maple trees take on flamboyant hues, the garden adds a contemplative dimension to the visit.

This traditional garden is not just a decorative element, it's an integral part of the Kosoan experience. Guests can admire the view while enjoying their tea, creating a harmonious link between indoors and outdoors. This connection with nature, so important in Japanese culture, contributes greatly to the soothing atmosphere of the place and invites meditation.

Les salles donnent sur le jardin — Rooms overlook the garden
Ph.L

Traditional teas and pastries

While the teahouse is worth a visit for its exceptional setting, it 's above all its delicious pastries that attract the crowds every afternoon. Kosoan's menu offers a selection of traditional Japanese desserts that will delight both the eyes and the taste buds.

Specialties include anmitsu (red bean paste with fresh fruit, agar jelly cubes and vanilla ice cream), rice cakes and tokoroten (agar jelly noodles soaked in brown sugar syrup). These desserts, prepared with seasonal produce, change in appearance and flavor with the calendar, reflecting the importance of the seasons in Japanese culinary culture.

To accompany these sweets, Kosoan offers a wide range of beverages, of which matcha is the star. Whether served hot, cold, as a latte or cappuccino, this powdered green tea is available in all its forms. Lovers of coffee, strawberry latte, or even amazake (a fermented rice-based drink) in winter, will also find what they're looking for.

Anmitsu à Kosoan — Anmitsu to Kosoan
Ph.L

The art of the tea ceremony at Kosoan

Although Kosoan does not offer a formal tea ceremony, the establishment strives to convey the spirit and values of this traditional art through its service and ambience. The preparation and service of tea, particularly matcha, is carried out with care and respect, reflecting the fundamental principles of the tea ceremony: harmony, respect, purity and tranquility.

Guests are invited to take time to appreciate their beverage and their surroundings, adopting a more meditative approach to tasting. This experience offers valuable insight into Japanese tea culture, even for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of the traditional ceremony.

Practical information: opening times, prices and access

Kosoan is open daily from 11:00 am to 6:30 pm, except on Wednesdays when it is closed. This makes it an ideal place for a late lunch or snack.

In terms of prices, Kosoan remains very affordable despite the quality of its offer and its exceptional setting. Prices generally range from 550 to 950 yen (around 4.48 to 7.79 euros), making it an affordable option for most visitors.

To get there, simply head for Jiyugaoka station, served by the Tokyu-Toyoko and Tokyu-Oimachi lines. Kosoan is just a few minutes' walk from the station, tucked away in a quiet alleyway. Feel free to use a map or ask the locals for directions, as the teahouse can be a little hard to find for first-time visitors.

Kosoan's appeal to locals and tourists alike

Kosoan has won over both locals and tourists in search of authenticity. For locals, especially young women, it's a popular meeting place where people come to chat and relax in an elegant, traditional setting. The quality of the pastries and drinks, combined with the unique ambience of the place, makes it a destination of choice for afternoons with friends.

For tourists, Kosoan offers a rare opportunity to discover a more intimate and traditional aspect of Tokyo, far removed from the clichés of the ultra-modern city. It's a true immersion in Japanese culture, accessible even to those who don't have time to visit Kyoto. Its proximity to Tokyo's Jiyugaoka district, known for its European ambience, adds an interesting touch of contrast to the visit.

All in all, whether you're a local in search of serenity or a traveler eager to discover traditional Japan, Kosoan offers you an enchanted break in the heart of Tokyo. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy a delicious cup of tea, sample traditional summer gastronomy, and soak up the unique atmosphere of a genuine Japanese teahouse, all without leaving the capital.