Hello, fellow travel lovers!
Today, I’ll introduce you to the stunning Kotaro Rapids, located within Nikko National Park, and the scenic Kotaro Teahouse perched nearby! Surrounded by lush nature, this open-air café offers a luxurious experience of serenity and delicious treats. Let’s dive into the report!
They’re Open… Right? A Thrilling Journey to the Destination
Kotaro Rapids is a breathtaking scenic spot located within Nikko National Park, known for the stunning Ho-kigawa stream.
Kotaro Teahouse has a bold policy of closing on bad weather days. Checking their Instagram for updates before your visit is a must!
By the way, their Instagram photos are absolutely adorable! 💛
It rained the day before, so I was a bit worried, but today it’s officially open! With excitement at its peak, we set off!
However... as I made my way down a narrow road, wondering, "Is this really the right way?" I finally spotted the parking area. Even before the teahouse opened, there were already about 10 cars! Getting there early is definitely the way to go.
Waiting for the Opening: A Fun and Relaxing Natural Escape
Before opening, the teahouse offers a charming atmosphere with tatami mats scattered throughout the space.
Then, a moss-covered dog statue greets you with a playful charm. It definitely has character (haha).
Plus, there’s a soothing hydrangea-filled flower water basin and an owl ornament! You’ll feel relaxed even during the wait.
The Joy of Deciding: What to Pick from the Menu?
The teahouse menu is wonderfully varied.
The teahouse’s specialty, handmade kusa dango (mugwort rice dumplings), was an instant decision for takeout! The perfect harmony of kinako (soybean powder) and sweet bean paste, combined with its chewy texture, makes it absolutely divine. Once you’ve picked up your order, you can enjoy it at your favorite seat.
I tried to take an Instagram-worthy, stylish photo… but I’d already eaten half of it (haha).
Thankfully, my friend’s “before eating” photo came to the rescue. It features a hearty mushroom soba and refreshing tokoroten (gelatinous noodles).
Watch Your Step! Don’t Slip!
This open-air café in the heart of nature offers an amazing atmosphere, but the moss-covered rocky ground can be slippery, so be careful! In fact, someone actually took a tumble… but the real tragedy happened to a bottle of shichimi spice. Yes, it ended up falling into the river (haha). Instead of adding a kick of flavor, it’s now getting a thorough rinse in the clear stream.
Experience the Extraordinary at This Open-Air Café in Nature!
Within an hour of opening, a long line had already formed. At Kotaro Teahouse, you can enjoy delicious food while taking in the soothing views of the stream and surrounding nature. This open-air café, brimming with an extraordinary atmosphere, is definitely worth a visit! Nature lovers, don’t miss this gem!
Pay Attention to the Signs! Don’t Miss Them: Near the parking area, there’s a sign directing traffic during busy times, but it’s small and easy to miss. If you go the wrong way, you might end up stuck in a narrow road jam! Be sure to check the signs and follow the correct direction for a smooth journey!
An open cafe amidst the great outdoors! This extraordinary experience is definitely something to try!
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip! – TabiJun
＊＊TabiJun＊＊
Duration of stay here: 60 minutes
