Uchuneko

‘Uchuneko’ (instagram.com/uchuneco03/) is a small café‑gallery located in Yoshino, Nara, opened in April 2021, is mainly accessible by car or bus from Yoshino town center. The café occupies two distinct structures: the main building houses the cafe, shop and take‑out window, while a secondary, cottage‑like building sits just across the street, offering an open‑middle seating area that frames views of Yoshino’s mountainous landscape. Ivy partially overgrows the cottage’s outward‑facing side, giving a gently wild, organic character.

The main shop features a stylish and airy interior, thoughtfully arranged with beautifully crafted products. Much of the woodwork inside was created by Takeshi Watanabe (instagram.com/moonrounds) , adding warmth and artisan character to the space. Across the road, the second structure feels like a deconstructed home: guests remove their shoes to enter a raised tatami-style area furnished with a low table, open to the natural scenery. Adjacent to it is a cozy room with a small table and chairs. A third, fully enclosed room serves as an extension of the retail space, displaying a curated selection of tableware, handcrafted wood pieces, hair accessories, and furniture. The design blurs the line between indoors and outdoors, offering unobstructed views through the structure into the lush Yoshino surroundings.

The food and drink offerings at Uchuneko are simple yet thoughtfully selected. During the summer months, the café serves hand-prepared shaved ice (kakigōri), mixed with fresh seasonal fruit. The kakigōri is known for its delicate, fluffy texture that melts effortlessly, especially refreshing when enjoyed in the open-air setting with the soft Yoshino breeze. In addition to sweets, the menu includes coffee, chai, and even beer, all intended to complement the relaxed, unhurried atmosphere of the space. While the selection is not extensive, it aligns with the café’s focus on quality and seasonal enjoyment.

Overall, Uchuneko offers more than a café, it is a hybrid space where art, nature and light refreshments converge. The dual‑building layout, open‑air cottage seating, handcrafted kakigoori with fresh fruits, and curated selection of lovely household goods create a relaxed yet thoughtfully designed environment. It stands out as a peaceful spot in Yoshino for those seeking a visual and sensory experience rather than a conventional meal.