Following the renovation of the Shuzenji Onsen bus stop, a cafe with an attached Baumkuchen workshop opened next to the bus stop on December 19, 2024.MatoKa」。
Taking the opportunity of renovating the bus stop, which had become dilapidated after 43 years, a Baumkuchen workshop and an attached cafe were opened with the aim of creating a relaxing place like a "perch" where people can take a breather.
The name "MatoKa" is derived from the round shape of Baumkuchen ("en") and the old reading of "en" (円), "matoka," and also from the concept of "space" or "interval," signifying the enjoyment of sweets in that space.
The workshop and sales area are located on the right, and the eat-in space is on the left. Terrace seating is provided around the area, creating a space where you can enjoy yourself with your dog.
Located in a corner of the bus stop building, the eat-in space inside the shop features a harmonious blend of warm wood tones and soft light filtering in through the glass, creating a natural and simple design that makes it a welcoming "perch" for tourists and locals alike. Six tables with seating for two are available for customers to enjoy.
After ordering and paying, you'll be given a pager and wait at your table for your order to be ready.
New menu items: "Affogato Baumkuchen" ¥600 / "Iced Coffee" ¥450
On this day, I tried the "Affogato Baumkuchen" and "Iced Coffee," which were new items on the takeout menu.
"Affogato Baum" is a luxurious treat featuring a homemade hard-type baumkuchen (layered cake) made with delicious eggs from Izu, topped with smooth, melt-in-your-mouth vanilla soft serve ice cream, and finished with a drizzle of espresso. The gentle sweetness of the vanilla, the dense and rich texture unique to baumkuchen with its many layers, and the slight bitterness of the coffee combine to create a harmonious trio of flavors. It is truly a dessert worthy of being called a "reward for adults." It also pairs perfectly with fragrant and refreshing iced coffee.
The terrace seating area has ample shelter from the sun, so I was able to take a break and escape the sun while strolling around with my dog, Chocolat.
The bus stop in Shuzenji is bustling with many people lining up to board the bus. It's a good idea to stop by and grab some takeout while you wait.
The menu is available for eat-in, takeout, and gift sets, and the concept is "a snack for adults on the go."
The Baumkuchen, baked in-house, comes in two varieties: a luxurious whole Baumkuchen in soft or hard textures. They also offer individually packaged stick-type cut Baumkuchen, decorated with scenes of Shuzenji, making them easy to take home. These are poised to become a new Shuzenji specialty. Packaged in stylish packaging, they make perfect souvenirs or gifts.
"MatoKa" is a place where you can rest your tired feet while strolling through the hot spring town and enjoy a sweet and fragrant moment. Be sure to stop by when you visit Shuzenji.
Having enjoyed a leisurely afternoon, and with check-in time at the hot spring inn where we'll be staying approaching, let's take one more stroll through the bamboo grove path and head to our accommodation.
Next episode preview: Checking into "Kizuna Plus," a hot spring inn where you can relax with your beloved dog!
MatoKa
Address: 809-1 Shuzenji, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture 410-2416
TEL: 0558-79-3260
Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Open all year round
(Please note that business hours may change, so please check before visiting.)
https://matoka.jp/
