In the movie KOKUHO, Restaurant Hyakkaen, where Kikuo and Akiko stop for a quiet meal,
has become an emotional symbol of their bond.
The warm lighting and aroma of sizzling hamburg steak create an unforgettable atmosphere,
turning this humble restaurant into a sacred place for film fans across Japan.
About Restaurant Hyakkaen
Nestled in the tranquil mountains of Kyoto, Restaurant Hyakkaen has been beloved by locals for decades. Its wooden façade exudes a nostalgic charm, and upon entering, guests are enveloped by the gentle glow of warm lights and the aroma of home-cooked meals.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Established | Around the late 1960s |
| Building | Single-story wooden structure with white walls and lattice |
| Seating | About 30 seats (tables and counter) |
| Atmosphere | Cozy, nostalgic, and welcoming |
| Visitors | Locals, tourists, and KOKUHO fans |
The restaurant’s true allure lies in its ability to make guests feel a “special kind of everyday comfort.”
It isn’t luxurious, yet it leaves a deep emotional impression—thanks to both its food and the human warmth that fills the space.
Connection to the Movie KOKUHO
In KOKUHO, the scene where Kikuo and Akiko pull over for a meal was filmed at this very restaurant.
As their car slows and the Hyakkaen sign comes into view, the audience feels as though they are entering the scene themselves.
Inside, the wooden tables and soft lighting create a visual warmth that perfectly mirrors the tone of the film.
| Filming Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Actual restaurant in Kyoto Prefecture |
| Scene Used | Midpoint driving and dining scene |
| Filming Spot | Back right corner table |
| Shooting Duration | Around 3 days |
| Note | Used the restaurant’s natural lighting and furniture |
The production team wanted to preserve the authentic atmosphere of the restaurant, choosing to film without altering the interior.
The result is a scene where reality and fiction beautifully merge—capturing the essence of a fleeting, human moment.
Signature Dish – Hamburg Steak with Napolitan Pasta
The restaurant’s signature dish, also featured in the movie, is the Hamburg Steak with Napolitan Pasta.
Served sizzling on a hot iron plate, the juicy steak and the sweet aroma of ketchup from the Napolitan create an irresistible combination.
This meal, shared between the two characters, symbolizes warmth and connection, echoing the heart of the story.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Hamburg Steak | 100% domestic ground beef and pork, hand-shaped |
| Sauce | House-made demi-glace, recipe passed down for generations |
| Napolitan | Classic Showa-style pasta grilled on a hotplate |
| Sides | Fried egg, potato, green salad |
| Price | Around 1,300 yen (as of writing) |
Many visitors have described the dish as “a flavor that brings tears of nostalgia”, saying it allows them to relive the emotions of the film through taste and scent alike.
A Beloved Pilgrimage Spot for Film Fans
Since the release of KOKUHO, Restaurant Hyakkaen has gained popularity as a sacred pilgrimage destination.
Inside, walls are adorned with behind-the-scenes photos and autographs from the cast, allowing visitors to step directly into the film’s world.
Fans often gather here to exchange memories of the movie, creating a space that feels like a small film café.
| Fans’ Impressions | Feedback |
|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Feels just like the movie |
| Staff | Kind and welcoming |
| Food | Exactly as seen on screen |
| Repeat Visitors | Many customers return regularly |
| Best Seasons | Spring (cherry blossoms) and Autumn (autumn leaves) |
Younger generations who discovered the restaurant through the movie now visit regularly.
The owner happily notes, “Thanks to the film, we’ve met so many new guests.”
It’s more than a filming location—it’s a living space where human connection thrives.
Access and Store Information
Located about 40 minutes by car from central Kyoto, the restaurant sits along a peaceful roadside surrounded by lush greenery.
It’s easily accessible both by car and by public transportation, with the nearest bus stop just a few minutes’ walk away.
In spring, cherry blossoms line the road, while autumn brings vivid colors—making it a perfect place to experience both the film’s atmosphere and Kyoto’s natural beauty.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Restaurant Hyakkaen |
| Address | 14-1 Ikenokubi, Yawata City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan |
| Hours | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Closed | Tuesdays |
| Parking | Available (around 10 spaces) |
Because of its popularity, weekends can get busy, and reservations are recommended.
Nearby attractions and scenic drives make it a favorite stop for travelers exploring the Kyoto countryside.
Connection with the Local Community and Future Plans
Beyond its fame as a filming location, Restaurant Hyakkaen also serves as a community gathering place.
By using local ingredients and preserving traditional recipes, the restaurant has become a cultural landmark in Kyoto.
Future plans include special menus and events for movie fans, ensuring that its story continues.
| Community Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Local Ingredients | Uses meat and vegetables sourced from Kyoto Prefecture |
| Events | Annual “Movie Fan Appreciation Day” |
| Collaborations | Works with local tourism associations |
| Education | Hosts food culture workshops for local students |
| Preservation | Maintains and restores original interior design |
As one local resident expressed, “The film helped us rediscover the value of this place.”
Hyakkaen now stands not only as a restaurant but also as a symbol of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Restaurant Hyakkaen, featured in KOKUHO, remains a place where the warmth of the story lives on.
The table where Kikuo and Akiko sat, the aroma of Napolitan pasta, and the owner’s gentle smile—all weave together to create an experience that transcends time.
When you visit Kyoto, take a drive to this humble restaurant. You’ll feel the moment when the world of the film and reality quietly overlap.
Here, the Hamburg Steak and Napolitan Pasta are more than just food—they are a dish that awakens memory and emotion.
