喫茶 風乃栖 — Restaurant in Fujikawaguchiko

This was the highlight of my trip to the Mt Fuji area. This shop is run by a lovely obaa-san who guided us through the intricacies and methods of sencha and matcha brewing and consumption. It's a rustic shack that has plenty of seating. The outdoor seating overlooks a gorgeous view of the rushing freshwater stream.

While it was challenging to communicate with obaa-san, Google Translate is more than sufficient. She took great care of us and we had lovely conversations regarding the art of Japanese tea. She also shared that she is recently widowed and used to run this shop with her deceased husband.

I highly recommend anyone who's in the area to make the trip down and spend some time here to relax and drink tea in this cozy shop. Obaa-san is such an amazing lady, that even when we wanted to pay her extra to show our gratitude for her gracious hospitality, she declined and gave us more souvenirs for our travels. She also gifted us two hand drawn charms with beautiful calligraphy that were made by her late husband. It was truly a heartwarming experience from...

A truly spiritual and healing experience. Obaa-san here has studied matcha and sencha for 50 years. She patiently demonstrated the tea drinking process for us despite the language barrier (we’re English speakers, but started using the audio function on Google translate halfway and it’s amazing). I love her so much and wish I could stay longer!! Btw if you see that the shop is “empty” at first, head to the main door and try seeing if anyone’s around. That’s what happened to us. Please go, you won’t regret it :) even if just for the tranquility...

Chanced upon this place on the map whilst searching a cafe to sip some tea/coffee before heading back to Tokyo. Totally unexpected place, the oba-san managing the place is so so sweet and kind. She explained how you should make your tea, drink your tea and how to enjoy it with the okashi (snacks) that comes with. Definitely a hidden gem!! Do pop by if you are around. And immerse in the tranquility of the sound of running water, the cooling wind and just the...