A cozy afternoon on a chilly winter day

Around 90 minutes from Kochi City by car, Yusuhara Town is a lovely place to visit for everyone, especially artistic minds and creatives. You’ll get to see not just one, but SIX buildings designed by Kengo Kuma, one of the most prolific Japanese architects in the world! You certainly don’t have to be an expert or architecture buff to see the genius in his works, and today, we’re introducing my favorite spot…the town library! Also, kudos to the genius technique of @sanbonsuge1986 for using the reflection on the grand piano to capture this dynamic shot!

Kengo Kuma takes his signature use of natural wood to another level, creating a kind of geometric forest that draws your eyes upwards as you enter. A social hub for locals of all ages, the Kumo-no-Ue-no Library is a model of sustainability. As you might expect, the vast majority of books are in Japanese, but for art, architecture and nature lovers, there are more than enough photo books to browse while soaking up the atmosphere.

Is there anything more delightful than cozying up with a book on a chilly winter day? Nope! But also, yes! How about some coffee?

Just a 2-minute walk from the library is Coffee FLAG, a place where your warm dose of caffeine awaits. It’s a gem of a coffee shop, run by an owner who is wonderfully meticulous about his craft. Watching the care he puts into pouring every cup, using beans sourced from around the world and roasted on-site, is an almost meditative experience.

Thank you to @Coffee FLAG and @sanbonsuge1986 for letting us share their beautiful photos! 

Learn more about Yusuhara Town: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10490
Coffee FLAG official website: https://www.coffee-flag.jp/
Give sanbonsuge1986 a follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sanbonsuge1986/