Moku

True to its name, Moku (which translates to ‘tree’) is a café housed in a wooden, country-style building on the grounds of Shiga Gokoku Shrine.

What’s Moku?

With its retro charm and rustic country vibe, Moku is a café that serves organic teishoku food to satisfy your appetite. The menu, displayed on a chalkboard in Japanese, includes options like curry and the daily set (teishoku). Prices for savory meals range from ¥550 to ¥1,100, making it a real treat given the fresh produce included.

If you’re not in the mood for something savory, there are sweet options as well. There is cake, parfait, and even a cola float. Speaking of drinks, you can enjoy a nice cup of coffee or something else. The selection includes interesting options like matcha milk and banana juice. Prices for desserts and drinks range from ¥300 to ¥650.

Only open from midday to 3 p.m., four days a week, it’s truly where the locals lunch. This sense of community is further nurtured by the local jewelry and crafts available for purchase inside the café.

Note: The best way to pay at Moku is by cash.

What to know before you visit Moku?

Do you need reservations for Moku?

No, you don’t need a reservation for Moku. There’s plenty of seats, so there’s a good chance you can grab one.

by Jane Pipkin