Fukunishi Artisan Co.

Tucked away at the end of a quiet residential alley, just a three-minute walk from Hankyu Kyoto Line’s Settsushi Station, this newly opened kominka café Fukunishi Artisan Co. (instagram.com/fukunishiartisanco) offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Opening its doors in July 2026, the former family home has been thoughtfully renovated while preserving the original character of the building.

From the outside, the café retains the appearance of a traditional Japanese home. Passing through the front gate, visitors are greeted by the wide wooden façade before stepping into an interior that blends classic Japanese architecture with contemporary design. The renovation and spatial design were overseen by Yukio Kimura (instagram.com/yukio_kimura) , creating a warm, understated atmosphere throughout.

The seating area is generously sized and divided into two distinct spaces. One features dark wooden bench seating paired with mortar tables, while the highlight is a slightly raised tatami area furnished with matching mortar tables. Guests are asked to remove their shoes before entering this space, where soft linen curtains gently sway in the breeze, adding a sense of privacy and tranquility. Combined with the café’s calm background music, the interior feels both inviting and relaxing.

The café is run by Steve and his wife, Eri, who also designed the branding and packaging. Before opening their own shop, Steve honed his craft while working at 7Seeds Coffee in Melbourne. Today, he roasts the café’s coffee in-house, with the menu featuring carefully prepared coffee, matcha, soft drinks, and a selection of freshly baked pastries that pair perfectly with the beverages.

Alongside its drinks and sweets, the café also offers drip bags and a curated selection of ceramics, including the beautiful pieces by Yume Tanigawa (instagram.com/yumegawatani) used to serve each drink. The ceramics are also available for purchase, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the café’s carefully considered aesthetic.

For an area like Settsu, where cafés of this style are still relatively uncommon, discovering a space of this quality feels like finding a hidden gem. With its thoughtful design, welcoming atmosphere, and attention to detail, it is well worth making the short trip for anyone looking to experience one of the area’s most charming new cafés.