The Grotto

[Yanagawa’s social gathering place, which was also the setting for the film]

The building has a lovely exterior that stands along a cobblestone road. Opening the small door at the entrance, there is a flight of stairs leading to the bar. Upon entering, you are greeted by a calm space that feels like another world. Glittering amber-colored wooden tables and chairs. You can see the moat and namako wall through the window. At the back of the bar, there is an electronic piano and guitar. The owner worked for 20 years at “Ohana,” a hotel that was originally the residence of the lord of Yanagawa. “Sixteen years ago, I started this bar as a members-only bar, supported by the people of Yanagawa that I met through work,” he told us of that time.

It is popular as a “social gathering place in Yanagawa” and a place of relaxation for locals. It is a members-only establishment, but “as it is a restaurant in a tourist area, we do not turn away customers who happen to drop by. We also serve lunch during the day.” The “daily meal” at lunchtime changes with the seasons. In winter, the menu is pork soup, three small side dishes, and fruit. One thing that remains constant throughout the seasons is that the meal is served with Ariake nori, a local specialty.

The restaurant is also popular with tourists, as it is within walking distance of the Hakushu Memorial Museum and Onohana. Recently, a Chinese director shot a movie set in Yanagawa, and the scenes in which the lead actress works in the restaurant were filmed over three days. This is a restaurant where you can feel the time passing more slowly than usual.