Welcome to TOKYO BEAT - a special series by your trusty Tokyo Tourism Representative (New York Office) that aims to provide you with story ideas and inspiration. One surprising development in Tokyo’s many noteworthy subcultures may be its current wave of book cafés. These are bookstore / library / coffeeshop hybrids where customers can browse through inspiring books of all kinds (without being obligated to buy) while also enjoying perfectly composed food and drinks, within settings that are unique to each store. But some of the most forward thinking even allow for overnight stays – changing the landscape of what a bookstore or cafe can be on a global scale. Here are some of the best:
The Excitement of Discovery For rare book hunters, taking the time to uncover a special edition can be an experience unto itself. Bunkitsu in Roppongi, for example, has created a space where there are no shortcuts – analogue or digital – to seek out specific books; one literally must explore on his or her own to uncover something new or unusual. A veritable house of worship for publications, coming here is like a religious experience that is easily worth the $15 entrance fee (free unlimited coffee and tea included). Equally reverent of the craftsmanship of books is Bundan, located in the Museum of Modern Japanese Literature in Komaba Park. The immersive atmosphere is enhanced by thoughtful elements like its café menu, which consists of food and beverage items that have been inspired by famous Japanese novels. The element of surprise is at the heart of Books and Coffee Fukuroshosabo in Nishi-Ikebukuro, a project by the Japanese coffee chain Doutor. Nearly 3000 books have had their identities hidden by book covers, and readers can only rely on brief summaries before diving into something wholly unexpected.
The Charms of Exceptional Food and Merchandise The more straightforward book cafés are no less impressive. Kiryuusha in the trendy and bohemian neighborhood of Shimokitazawa, for example, is designed like a tiny wooden hut straight out of an anime. Only 12-square meters, it’s a perfectly intimate space to read a book over a coffee or glass of wine. For even more local charm, Books & Café Phosphorescence in Mitaka is the ultimate destination for used books, with a café menu that has been a fixture of the neighborhood for over 17 years. In Suginami, Yoru no Hirune raises the bar by not only offering fine wines, cocktails and comfort food, but also republishing rare masterpieces through its publishing division. For a bit of European flair, KAIDO books & coffee in Shinagawa is one of the best places to purchase an artisanal cup of coffee or a craft brew – not to mention browse a jaw-dropping 40,000 books personally curated by the owner. Finally, for those in the Tokyo Station / Marunouchi area, Marunouchi Reading Style is a lifestyle inspired book café located in the famed KITTE building (the legendary former Japan Post Office Building), with plenty of items ranging from stationery to kitchen goods that make it perfect for readers and non-readers alike.
New Meanings of ‘Cuddling Up With a Good Book’ Tokyo is known for its many alternative lodging options, from capsule hotels to Airbnbs and more. But book-themed hotels may be among the most surprising. One of the most unique is Tsutaya Book Apartment, which is nothing less than an oasis for book lovers, thanks to countless spaces to stretch out, design elements like tents and floor pillows, and of course, tons of books. Whether one needs a quiet place to work during the day, or somewhere to drink the night away, this is it; convenient shower rooms, and an all woman’s floor make this an ideal overnight safe haven for everyone. The hostel chain Book & Bed (multiple locations) offers a selection of sleeping areas (some partially hidden behind bookshelves!) that resemble everything from a dormitory style cocoon to an artist’s loft that happen to have sweeping views of the Tokyo skyline. With a range of affordable rooms, and also open 24 hours, it’s the perfect place for bleary-eyed travelers who can’t seem to – or simply don’t want to – fall asleep in this exceptional city.
For more information on unique book cafés in Tokyo, contact press@tokyo-nyc.com or call 917-200-4887. For general information on traveling in Tokyo, head to TokyoTokyo.jp and Gotokyo.org/en/
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