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With amazing outdoor eating spaces set on moss-covered grounds in the middle of the woods, this is a secret haven for lovers of nature and Studio Ghibli.

While Japan is filled with amazing temples, shrines, and World Heritage sites, sometimes there are little known places off the beaten track that simply take your breath away. One of the latest secret finds to enchant people around the country is a beautiful little cafe called Kokemushiro, literally “Moss Woven Mat”, which is hidden away in a tranquil, nature-filled setting in Ehime, on the southern island of Shikoku. Visitors here say it’s like stepping into a Studio Ghibli anime film, and judging from the photos they’ve been sharing online, it really does look like a magical destination!

The journey to the quiet world begins with the beautiful lantern-lit atmosphere in the parking area.

The stroll up to the cafe gives you the sense of stepping into another world, with Mei and Totoro-like footprints embedded in the walkway.

The cafe is housed in a charming wooden building that sits on a gentle incline, surrounded by trees and a beautifully manicured Japanese garden covered in lush moss.

The laid back nature of the environment is reflected on the wooden plaque placed at the front of the cafe by the owner, which says, “Open because I’m feeling good”.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of Japanese and western style drinks and desserts, including matcha green tea sets on the wooden verandah.

For diners inside the cafe, the scenery from the windows looks just like a painting.

For those who want to immerse themselves in the natural environment, there’s seating outside in the moss garden, where customers can enjoy refreshments while surrounded by dappled sunlight and the sound of running water.

The winding paths around the cafe lead people on a journey through the beautiful, tiered moss garden.

▼ The gardens are breathtaking in their beauty.

▼ Whether you’re eating in the treetops…

▼ Enjoying the cool atmosphere of the woods…

▼ or seated in the moss garden…

▼ The tranquil setting will be a memory to cherish forever!

To see a video of the cafe and its moss-covered grounds, check out the short clip below. If you’re lucky enough to be on the beautiful island of Shikoku, be sure to stop by for a visit!

Cafe Information
Kokemushiro/苔筵
Address: Ehime-ken, Seiyo-shi, Uwacho, Nobusato 2099
愛媛県 西予市 宇和町信里 2099
Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Closed Mondays)

Source: Naver Matome
Top Image: Youtube/Kazu KH