Japanese Restaurant KAGAYA KITTE Osaka branch by RENS., NOMURA Co.,Ltd (Japan)

Aug 25

Kagaya is a famous traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) representing Japan.

The inn is located in Wakura Onsen, the largest hot spring resort on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture. Founded in 1906 with only 12 rooms, Kagaya has evolved into a first-class establishment renowned for its exceptional hospitality. The inn has been privileged to host esteemed guests, including the Showa and Heisei Emperors and Empresses. As Kagaya celebrates its 118th anniversary this summer, we were honoured to have been involved in the design of their first-ever restaurant in Osaka, located within the KITTE Osaka complex.

In January 2024, an earthquake struck off the coast of the Noto Peninsula, causing significant damage to Kagaya. However, working together, we created a new restaurant, symbolizing a strong step forward into the future, reflecting Kagaya’s ongoing development and resilience.

At the entrance of the Kagaya Ryokan, a pine tree stands tall and proud, unaffected by the earthquake.

Inspired by its resilient spirit, we adopted the pine tree, revered as an object of worship in the Noto region, for our design concept. The tree symbolizes the unwavering determination of the Kagaya staff.

The dining counter backdrop features a symbolic composition of delicate pine needle silhouettes, extending in various directions and overlapping in a radial pattern to represent the pine tree reaching toward the sky.

The entrance warmly welcomes visitors with a facade that embodies the memory of pine needles gently swaying in the Noto region.

Additionally, a traditional lantern that illuminated the entrance of Kagaya Ryokan for many years has been relocated to the reception, preserving and carrying forward the inn's legacy. Adorning the display shelves are silver-threaded “obi” sashes that have been passed down through successive generations of “Okami” (female innkeepers). These sashes embody the special sentiments of Kagaya Ryokan entrusted to this new establishment.

Furthermore, selected artwork featuring pine trees has been placed throughout the restaurant, welcoming guests with the craftsmanship and art carefully preserved by the ryokan.

Through this restaurant, Kagaya’s traditions, spirit of hospitality, and strong resolve for renewal are carried forward to the next generation. Like the resilient pines of Noto reaching powerfully toward the future, we hope this restaurant will open doors to new chapters and fresh starts for all who visit.