Heroes

In March 2009, we started to renovate our old Machiya style house into an open space Café here in Nishijin, Kyoto.

You can find out more about the renovation here.

We would like to thank all these great people who helped us renovate.

The super gardeners from Garden Saga,
who came even when it rained and helped us not only with our garden but almost anything.  They can make the impossible possible!

Nishiwaki-san, who organized the meisters to renovate the front section.  He knows how to make everyone smile even when things are difficult. He even donated tatamis for the kids space!

Martin Wilkinson,
a professional carpenter who never compromises for quality. He created most of our interior built-in furniture, such as counters and show case shelves.  We are so happy that we got to know him!

Aroma-san, who came on her day-offs and painted poles and beams with Bengara-Kakishibu.

She is also now offering Shiatsu massage for very reasonable prices every Tuesday evening!

Mr. Hirai of Fresh Real Estate,
Mr. Hirai is the nicest real-estate agent ever!  It is so hard to find a friendly, reliable real estate agency.  He had already introduced our cafe to all his acquaintances even before we signed the rental contract!  His agency is located next to the Imperial Palace and covers all of Kyoto.
Fresh Real Estate - 075-417-4444

Tagami-san,
another gardener who created the wonderful bamboo fence in the garden space for a price that made us smile.  For Japanese style gardens, please contact Tagami-san at 075-204-6281.

Bettina Teramoto,
an architect, lecturer, monk and mother, who gave us great design ideas.  The floor lights, show case shelves and shoji on the ceiling are all thanks to her input.

The Kawamura-Family
We called the father, Bengara-Meister, as he taught us and other volunteer workers how to mix traditional Japanese paint. His wife and daughter also helped us a lot.

There are so many other people who helped us.

THANK YOU EVERYONE!!