Taipei's new Japanese-style cafe blends zen aesthetics with dessert art

台北新開日式咖啡館，融合禪意美學與甜點藝術

Store to open on May 25


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – Taipei's Daan District welcomes Hakoniwa Yamamotoya, a serene Japanese-style cafe from Kyoto Yamamotoya, opening May 25 at "0km Shanwusuo."

Hakoniwa Yamamotoya centers on "karesansui," the Japanese dry landscape garden philosophy. This "wabi-sabi" ideal of understated beauty inspires their visually captivating desserts, echoing the cafe's tranquil ambiance.

The name "hakoniwa" refers to the Japanese miniature landscape art popular during the late Edo and Meiji periods, where tiny figures, gardens, and buildings are arranged in a box to create an ideal microcosm.

Beyond sweets, expect light Western fare, unique house-made desserts, and soothing drinks. Adding to the atmosphere are displays of Ishikawa Prefecture's Kutani ware and lacquerware.

The limited karesansui plate uniquely embodies this concept, translating a dry garden onto a dish. Matcha mousse and sponge cake from Mount Horai.

Nori-coated red bean and perilla mochi represent mossy rocks. Matcha cookie crumble with warabi mochi and marigold leaf creates the foreground. Almond sesame cookies depict boat stones and islands.

The karesansui matcha tiramisu is also limited. Matcha ladyfingers form the base, layered with matcha tiramisu and crispy chocolate. Matcha powder on top evokes flowing water and inner reflection, offering an edible interpretation of garden culture.

Other highlights include the retro-inspired fruit pudding parfait, yuzu chocolate, hojicha salted caramel basque cheesecake, and gelato.