Whenever I travel, my itinerary tends to revolve around food and beverages—exploring local culinary gems, visiting renowned chefs, or even stopping by a brewery. It’s not work-related or company-sponsored; it’s simply my passion. Food and drink are my gateways to understanding a place’s culture. In 2023, Japan was on my travel list, and I decided to spend two nights in the quaint city of Toyama. This wasn’t a destination that anyone I knew had heard of. Still, I had a personal recommendation from my chef boss to visit an Edomae sushi restaurant helmed by an experienced Japanese chef, Chef Kimura. The restaurant was listed in the World’s 50 Best Discovery, and I couldn’t resist the opportunity. I booked a hotel in the city center for easy access. It was pricier than expected, as Toyama seemed to attract visitors from bigger cities over the weekend. But it was worth it.
A Serene Discovery
When I arrived on a quiet Friday evening, the city greeted me with its unique charm—local joints serving signature black ramen and an atmosphere that felt both tranquil and welcoming. The next morning, my map led me to Fugan Unga Kansui Park, a sprawling park centered around a beautiful canal. The park, blanketed in snow, was magical in its winter stillness. And then I spotted it: a Starbucks on the other side of the canal. From afar, it looked like something straight out of a postcard, with its sleek glass design perfectly complementing the natural surroundings. I had to see it up close.
Coffee, Sakura, and a View
Crossing the park, I reached the Starbucks, ordered a coffee, a breakfast muffin, and a Sakura doughnut (yes, it was the start of Sakura season!), and stepped onto the outdoor terrace. Despite the freezing cold, I couldn’t resist sitting outside to take in the view. The terrace overlooked the canal, the iconic Tenmon Bridge, and the snow-covered trees of the park. It was stunning in every way—a picturesque scene that felt surreal. I could only imagine how breathtaking it must be during full sakura bloom. I ended up sitting there for hours, surrounded by other terrace dwellers, including locals with their adorable dogs. Everything about the experience was delightful: the serene park, the crisp winter air, and even the Starbucks breakfast, which exceeded my expectations.
A Hidden Gem Worth the Detour
While enjoying the moment, I decided to do a little research on the place. This Starbucks was originally established in 2008 and had undergone renovations in 2019 before reopening. It was sheer luck that I visited not long after it had reopened. The place was busy but didn’t feel overwhelming—most visitors seemed to grab their coffee and continue exploring the park. Sitting there, surrounded by the quiet beauty of Toyama, I felt so grateful for choosing a destination far from the usual tourist spots. It was a joyful, unexpected start to my day and one of those rare travel moments that stay with you long after the trip is over. If you ever find yourself in Japan, take a detour to Toyama. Fugan Unga Kansui Park and its Starbucks may not be the most talked-about destinations, but they offer something even better: a peaceful, unspoiled slice of Japan that feels like it was meant just for you.
