cafe de Boku

Cafe de Boku (instagram.com/bokucafe322) opened in March 2019 as the second branch of the popular Omihachiman café “merci,” bringing that brand’s dessert-focused approach to the historic district of Moriyama in Shiga Prefecture. Located within the Moriyamajuku Machiya “Uno-ie” complex, it sits about a 14-minute walk from JR Moriyama Station, making it accessible yet slightly removed from the busiest streets. The name “Boku” is derived from the Japanese character for “simple” or “unadorned”, reflecting a concept of straightforward, unaffected hospitality.

Set inside a former sake brewery dating from the early Meiji period, the café’s interior retains exposed wooden beams, textured plaster walls, and warm wood tones that emphasize the building’s original character. Antique furniture and vintage fixtures are arranged to create a calm, low-key atmosphere where the historic fabric of the space is clearly visible but carefully restored. From the outside, the café presents a classic machiya-style façade, with dark timber, tiled roofing, and an overall townhouse look that blends into the preserved streetscape of Moriyamajuku. Its main point of attraction is the blend of heritage architecture and refined sweets, which has made it a frequently recommended stop in Shiga café guides.

Desserts are central to the menu, led by a Basque cheesecake that is popular with regular visitors and even in the media, sometimes offered in seasonal variations such as combinations with baked sweet potato and maple. Alongside this signature cake, the café serves tarts and parfaits that feature fruit grown in Shiga, emphasizing regional produce in both presentation and flavor pairings. Drinks include espresso-based beverages such as white mocha lattes, as well as other coffees and soft drinks designed to complement the rich baked sweets.

If you’re in Shiga, this lovely cafe is definitely worth a visit. Set inside a charming historic building, with friendly staff and amazing sweets, it’s a spot you won’t want to miss.