Craving a spot where music and coffee blend? Look no further than Far East Café. This unique café is more than just a place to grab a drink. It is singer-songwriter Kazumasa Oda’s antenna shop.
Far East Café first opened its doors in Shibuya in 1990. Then in 1999, it relocated to Minami Aoyama. The café’s name comes from Oda’s album of the same name. It is a special place for fans.
Originally, coffee was free when Far East Café first opened. Now, after the move to Minami Aoyama, drinks are charged. You can still get coffee hot or iced. There are also other options like tea and juice. Beer is available at night.
Far East Café offers more than just drinks. It sells original goods and concert merchandise. CDs, DVDs, and books are also available. These items cater to Oda’s fans.
The café celebrates its opening anniversary every July. A special tumbler is made for the occasion. For Christmas and Valentine’s Day, there are special sets. These sets include drinks and cake.
Concerts in Tokyo often draw fans to Far East Café. Many fans visit the café to coincide with Oda’s concerts. They come to celebrate and share their love for his music.
Another special date is September 20 Oda’s birthday. Fans write messages on colored paper to celebrate. Many fans visit the café on this day to share their wishes.
Far East Café also publishes a newsletter called “Far East Café Press.” It shares news and updates about Oda’s activities. It also offers priority ticket sales to members. The newsletter is considered an information source for fans.
The editor-in-chief of the Press is Yasuo Yoshida. He is also the representative director of Oda’s agency. This shows the close connection between the café and Oda’s career.
If you spend over 1,000 yen at Far East Café, you can get a stamp card. This card gives you special benefits. For example, you might receive birthday or Christmas cards. The Christmas cards sometimes change to New Year’s cards.
Previously, there was also a Yokohama store. However, it closed at the same time as the attached tea shop. Now, the only Far East Café is here in Tokyo.
The staff at Far East Café greet customers with “Konnichiwa.” It is not the typical “Irasshaimase.” The staff consists of three people from Oda’s agency.
To get here, take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Omotesando Station. From Exit B1, it is a short walk to Far East Café near Aoyama Gakuin University. Stop by and experience the unique atmosphere. Enjoy the music and the memories.