Nagoya’s Morning Gift: The Kissaten Spirit

In Nagoya, mornings start with something special—free breakfast at local cafés, known as Kissaten. This unique culture began during the city’s booming textile era, when Nagoya welcomed travelers and workers from all over Japan with a warm cup of coffee and a simple breakfast, free of charge.

Though the textile industry has quieted down, this beautiful tradition lives on. It’s one of the many ways Nagoya expresses omotenashi—our spirit of heartfelt hospitality.

These days, you’ll see families enjoying breakfast together at Kissaten on weekends. It’s a moment of calm, where no one has to think about prepping food or the cost (except for the coffee—you’ll still need to order a drink!).

Some cafés offer simple toast and eggs, while others, like the one in the photo, serve more elaborate meals for a small additional fee.

It’s not just breakfast—it’s a warm reminder of our cultural roots and the quiet dedication of every café owner who keeps the tradition alive.

Yuko