Peaches and pine muscats what do they have to do with a museum? Cocochi is not just a place but a feeling. It is where the Kyoto International Community House welcomes locals and foreigners. Here, communication transcends nationality race religion and political preferences.
Cocochi comprises a three-story main hall. It also has a Japanese-style annex named “kokoka”. This community house offers free access. It also provides services and support. These are for anyone who wants them.
Imagine stepping into a space designed to connect people. A message corner displays individual messages. Information about international community events is posted here. A sister city corner showcases Kyoto’s nine sister cities. Craft wares are displayed here too.
The library room is a treasure trove. Dictionaries in about 130 languages are available. Picture books from 90 countries fill the shelves. Newspapers and magazines from around the globe await exploration.
The community lobby invites conversation. An open-air plaza and garden offer relaxation. A cafe provides refreshments. And then there is the restaurant. It serves mouth-watering Japanese meals. These meals express the seasons. A great view of Higashiyama can be seen from inside the restaurant.
Cocochi opened its doors on June 10 2017. It strives to be a place where you can spend happy time. It is accessible via a short walk from Marutamachi Station.
While here why not try one of Cocochi’s popular parfaits? These are made with fresh fruit. The menu changes with the seasons. Peach parfaits in summer. Chestnut sweets in autumn.
Cocochi also offers free Wi-Fi. Feel free to bring your children. Babies preschoolers and school-age children are all welcome.
Consider for a moment the impact of such a place. Cocochi fosters understanding. It promotes cultural exchange. It creates a welcoming environment for all. It is more than just a building. It is a bridge.
So as you explore Cocochi take a moment to appreciate its mission. Connect with someone new. Learn something about a different culture. Savor the flavors of the season. And remember that here in Kyoto you are part of a global community. Cocochi welcomes you.