Gajumaru Cafe in Koza is filled with plants, and the walls are adorned with street art incorporating Okinawan traditional crafts such as bingata and hanagasa (flower hats), which are accessories for Ryukyuan clothing, creating a stylish space that will make you feel excited!

The banyan tree is said to be inhabited by Okinawan spirits (Kijimuna), and is considered a tree of good fortune and happiness. The shop owner's wish is for this to be "a place where everyone who visits can find happiness."

1. The store is filled with art and plants.

Gajumaru Cafe is a brand new cafe that just opened in March 2022. With high ceilings and an open, airy atmosphere, the cafe offers both table seating surrounded by greenery and counter seating perfect for solo diners.


The atmosphere changes slightly towards the back of the shop, and there are seats that can be used as a co-working space.

The second floor features sofa seating designed to resemble a secret hideout atop a banyan tree, and is available by reservation only.


There's a big-screen TV and you can play games! Alcohol is also served at night, so the battles might get even more intense!
Apparently, these sofa seats are also available to families with children, in addition to those who have made reservations. That's a nice little touch.

Every corner of Gajumaru Cafe is photogenic, but the Ryukyu Bingata art created by an Okinawan designer is particularly beautiful. It's displayed next to the counter and serves as a photo spot, so be sure to capture a memorable photo while swinging on the swing!

And this, which looks like an ordinary bookshelf at first glance, is actually a hidden door.

Beyond that door is a women's-only restroom!! The shop is full of art and playful touches.

2. The menu at Gajumaru Cafe

Lunch mainly consists of Western-style dishes, and all come with a drink, soup, and ice cream. The top recommendation is the omelet taco rice, recommended by the manager.
This dish combines omurice (omelet rice) with taco rice, a soul food of Okinawa, allowing you to enjoy two dishes at once.

In addition, there's a raspberry soda drink, and finally, chocolate ice cream. It's a mini size, making it perfect as a dessert after a meal.

Another dish I'd like to introduce is the oven-baked chicken with tomato and cheese. The rich cheese perfectly complements the tomato sauce and chicken, making it absolutely delicious! The dish is also beautifully presented on a plate with dressing.

During dinner time, they serve beautiful and delicious drinks in Ryukyu glasses, and there are also great value all-you-can-drink plans. The menu is full of generous portions. You can order individual dishes or share them. There's a diverse lineup to choose from.

Also, their giant mango parfait is a dinner specialty, so those with a sweet tooth should definitely give it a try!

3. Gajumaru Cafe Basic Information

Gajumaru Cafe in Koza, Okinawa City, is located along National Route 330 and has a customer-only parking lot with 6 spaces behind the store.

If you're taking the bus, the nearest stop is Sonoda. It's about a 6-minute walk in the direction of "Koza Music Town," a commercial complex in Okinawa City.

National Route 330 is a major road and therefore easily accessible, but it often gets congested. Be especially careful if you get caught in weekday rush hour, as it can take a considerable amount of time. Also, since it's a popular restaurant, reservations are recommended.

Final thoughts

From Bingata dyeing and street art to a hidden door in the restroom, Gajumaru Cafe is a charming cafe and restaurant that single-mindedly pursues style. It's a place that will excite both tourists and locals alike, offering a relaxing and exciting experience. Please enjoy this space, where Okinawan culture is condensed around a tree said to bring happiness.

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