Student Revitalizes Historic Osaka Jazz Cafe as Underground Record Haven
In April 2026, Asahi Shimbun profiled Cafe Furugetsu, a unique underground space in Osaka that blends coffee culture with vinyl records and reading. The establishment was taken over in 2023 by Ryunosuke Kochi, who was then a 23-year-old university student. Responding to a post seeking a successor for the historic 'Coffee House Mocha,' which had operated since 1974, Kochi instinctively decided to inherit the business. After graduating, he renamed the venue Cafe Furugetsu, preserving its legacy while introducing a new atmosphere focused on immersive experiences with music and literature. The cafe features inherited assets from the previous owner, including a seasoned siphon coffee maker originally from 'Coffee House Chako' and an extensive collection of jazz records. This story highlights a growing trend of young entrepreneurs revitalizing traditional Japanese kissaten (coffee shops) by blending nostalgia with modern lifestyle interests. The article emphasizes the cultural significance of maintaining these communal spaces in urban environments, offering patrons a quiet retreat from the digital world. It serves as both a local interest piece and a commentary on sustainable business succession in the hospitality sector.
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Student Revitalizes Historic Osaka Jazz Cafe as Underground Record Haven
In April 2026, Asahi Shimbun profiled Cafe Furugetsu, a unique underground space in Osaka that blends coffee culture with vinyl records and reading. The establishment was taken over in 2023 by Ryunosuke Kochi, who was then a 23-year-old university student. Responding to a post seeking a successor for the historic 'Coffee House Mocha,' which had operated since 1974, Kochi instinctively decided to inherit the business. After graduating, he renamed the venue Cafe Furugetsu, preserving its legacy while introducing a new atmosphere focused on immersive experiences with music and literature. The cafe features inherited assets from the previous owner, including a seasoned siphon coffee maker originally from 'Coffee House Chako' and an extensive collection of jazz records. This story highlights a growing trend of young entrepreneurs revitalizing traditional Japanese kissaten (coffee shops) by blending nostalgia with modern lifestyle interests. The article emphasizes the cultural significance of maintaining these communal spaces in urban environments, offering patrons a quiet retreat from the digital world. It serves as both a local interest piece and a commentary on sustainable business succession in the hospitality sector.
asahi