BONGEN COFFEE: A Bonsai-Inspired Cafe in Central Tokyo

BONGEN COFFEE: Relax with Bonsai and Coffee in Nihonbashi

When we first met Mr. Shiraishi, the founder of BONGEN COFFEE, the first question that slipped out was: "How did the name 'BONGEN' come about?"

Mr. Shiraishi, a coffee artisan with many years of experience as a stylist, smiled and replied that bonsai and coffee have been his two great passions. He hopes to continue this love and, through this coffee shop, bring more motivation and courage to every visitor to keep moving forward.

Therefore, he chose the name "BONGEN Coffee" — a space where one can take a breather, feel the vitality of bonsai trees, and recharge with a cup of coffee to face new challenges.

A Space Overflowing with Japanese Aesthetics

BONGEN COFFEE has two stores in Tokyo: one in Ginza and the other in Nihonbashi, closer to Tokyo's center.

Unlike the relaxed atmosphere of the Ginza store, which exudes a strong downtown charm, the second store is situated in the busy yet serene Nihonbashi area. Whether for a quick break during a workday or a leisurely moment while sightseeing, it's a perfect place to visit.

Upon entering the shop, the first thing that catches the eye is the lively bonsai. To maintain them in the best condition, Mr. Shiraishi waters and trims the leaves meticulously every day, leaving nothing to chance.

Every two weeks, he also specially selects different bonsai for display, and has even displayed rare plants over 200 years old.

These small yet story-rich plants often attract plant-loving customers who enjoy tasting coffee while chatting warmly with Mr. Shiraishi about all things plants.

The wooden-tone seating design inside the shop creates a warm atmosphere. Paired with the gentle sway of white noren curtains in the breeze, it allows guests to enjoy a cup of aromatic coffee without distraction, or quietly engage in a relaxed chat with friends.

Coffee Items Recommended by Both the Owner and Baristas

BONGEN COFFEE shows a unique dedication to coffee bean roasting, continuously researching day after day to ensure that every cup of coffee can showcase the clearest and most profound flavors.

At the Nihonbashi store, the selection of coffee and food options is quite diverse, with four different choices for coffee beans and strength levels alone.

Mr. Shiraishi and the baristas jointly recommend two must-try drinks — the Iced Matcha Espresso Coffee Latte and the Rich Latte (Latte Rich).

The Iced Matcha Espresso Coffee Latte is made using top-grade matcha powder from Kagoshima. After grinding fresh, rich and smooth milk is added, followed by a shot of fragrant, full-bodied espresso.

The multi-layered texture is irresistible, and it’s especially recommended to pair with light roast coffee.

The Rich Latte (Latte Rich) contains 2.5 to 3 times the amount of espresso compared to a regular latte. It’s rich yet not bitter, making it a favorite among serious coffee enthusiasts.

The medium roast beans further highlight the intense aroma, making it an irresistible choice for anyone eager to try.

Japanese-style Desserts and Rice Balls at the Nihonbashi Store

If you enjoy pairing sweets with your coffee, the snack options at Nihonbashi will surely satisfy your taste buds. From rice balls to Japanese confections, each treat is worth savoring.

The rice ball's white rice has a natural sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with medium roast coffee. For more layers of flavor, you can also sprinkle a bit of salt to enhance the taste.

The pine branch-shaped matcha concentrate wagashi features an exquisite appearance with strong Japanese imagery.

The filling uses delicate red bean paste, and its sweet yet not overwhelming flavor makes you want to have bite after bite.

The Monaka Taiyaki encases savory cheese and rich matcha filling, creating a surprising layer of sweet and salty flavors that delight the palate.

Enjoy Coffeetime at BONGEN COFFEE

If you find yourself wanting more of the delicious offerings at BONGEN COFFEE, you can also take home their specially roasted coffee beans, designed by the team.

Whether it's a moment of relaxation after a busy day at work or a boost to energize yourself, a cup of BONGEN COFFEE is the best way to heal your body and mind.

BONGEN COFFEE TOKYO Nihonbashi

1-19-4 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0031

BONGEN COFFEE Tokyo Nihonbashi is a specialty store for home-roasted coffee, founded in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. Following the popular Ginza "BONGEN COFFEE Tokyo Ginza," a new store has opened in the Nihonbashi area, where history and tradition are alive and well. It is a 5-minute walk from Nihonbashi Station, a 6-minute walk from Mitsukoshimae Station and an 8-minute walk from Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit, making it a convenient location that is easy to stop by when traveling or business. Inside the store, we offer "BONGEN's original blends" that are carefully roasted at our own roaster in Ginza, as well as drip coffee and cafe lattes made with popular naturally grown coffee beans from Uganda. You can also enjoy popular products at Ginza Main Store, including Nihonbashi-only menus, seasonal flavored cafe lattes, sweets, and drip bags that are perfect as souvenirs. The interior of the store is a calm space that pursues the beauty of Japanese cuisine, and its special atmosphere is attractive, with an impressive bonsai tree that is over 100 years old. There are also seats available for relaxing, so you can forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend a special coffee time.