Chourakukan Cafe

Beautiful grounds but they do not allow you to actually look around. We had some tea and an espresso in the atrium room. My tea was over steeped but it was still an enjoyable experience. It somehow feels like you are transported the 19^th century in the South. I’d love to know who the architect was but all information is in Japanese.

I have been here twice, once to have some drink and a cake in the café, second to see beautiful, characteristic and sophisticated flowers (mainly using roses) arranged by a noteworthy Japanese flower artist, S. K. Inside of the building was decently decorated with his art works. They matched this tasteful house well. On the first floor an autograph session was held. I purchased a canned tea of Lupicia in collaboration of Mr. K and had him sign the package of it. He was much thinner than he looked on TV, but behaved himself in the same way he appeared on some media.
Sorry, back to the main topic. The building was constructed about 100 years ago, similar to Rokumeikan. Very nostalgic retro. It was also utilized as an accommodation for ladies, but at present men also can stay here. Only six twin Western-​style rooms. A friend of mine staying here about 20 years ago once said to me, «It is better to visit only». At that time it closed the door at 11 PM or so and seemed to have restriction in various ways. I usually make one-​day trip to Kyoto, but want to stay here someday after I looked at the redecorated room on the web site.
How about only utilizing diners or a café? All the staff is polite and well-​mannered. You will feel relaxed, happy and elegant surrounded by gorgeous and classical table wares, ornaments or furniture.