Karuizawa Breakfast: Relax at Natural Cafeina

Natural Cafeina: A Breakfast Spot in Karuizawa

Imagine a wonderful bicycle ride or stroll through the summer resort town of Karuizawa, and making a stop by a charming local café to start your day. Natural Cafeina makes this a reality.

By removing the rush of daily life, Natural Cafeina welcomes guests with the faint aroma of fresh coffee, soothing background music, and a warm neighborhood atmosphere.

Grab a seat with a MATCHA editor and enjoy a refreshing, energizing breakfast!

The Story Behind Natural Cafeina

Located about a 10-minute walk from Karuizawa Station, an emerald-green building stands surrounded by vibrant flowers and lush greenery—from succulents to seasonal blooms such as hydrangeas.

The lively, talkative owner, Mr. Nakayama, previously served as a barista at the globally renowned Maruyama Coffee.

Driven by a passion to create his own unique space, he transformed his grandmother’s former home into a one-of-a-kind café designed to bring people together. Today, he and his Brazilian-born wife greet every guest with warm smiles.

A Plant-Filled, Cozy Atmosphere

Mr. Nakayama deeply loves plants and admits that he easily gets tired of static decor. To keep the space fresh, he frequently rotates the potted plants, vase arrangements, and room layout. The result? Even regular customers feel as though they’re stepping into a new boutique flower shop every time they visit.

The warm, wooden interior is balanced by bright, colorful tableware and fresh greenery.

Back Terrace: A small open-air terrace in the rear lets you soak in the gentle Karuizawa breeze.

Gift Display: A rustic cabinet near the dining area displays handcrafted general goods available for purchase.

Specialty French Press Coffee and Breakfast Sets

Thanks to Mr. Nakayama’s coffee expertise, Natural Cafeina offers over 10 types of specialty coffee beans. Each cup is brewed using a French press to preserve the natural oils, rich aroma, and natural sweetness of the roast.

Beyond specialty coffees, the menu features a variety of drinks including fruit smoothies, tropical iced teas, and alcoholic beverages.

The Hot Caffe Mocha comes topped with a velvety layer of chocolate, blending deep cocoa and rich coffee for a smooth, indulgent flavor. (750 yen a la carte)

The Oasis Herbal Tea Blend combines natural flowers and herbs like lemongrass, chamomile, and mallow. Steeped to a delicate pink hue, it offers a sweet, full-bodied taste with a refreshing, uplifting aroma. (550 yen a la carte)

In the kitchen, the owner’s wife crafts delicious homemade meals, with the signature breakfast set being an absolute must-try. The quiche comes accompanied by a crisp side salad dressed in a house-made honey, yellow mustard, and soy sauce vinaigrette that enhances the natural sweetness of the fresh greens.

The quiche itself boasts a rich, generous filling with a warm, custard-like aroma of eggs and milk that is simply irresistible. (1,300 yen set meal)

Warm Hospitality and Local Encounters

Mr. Nakayama speaks English and goes out of his way to make international travelers feel at home.
He takes time to chat with guests, ask about their travel plans around Karuizawa, and send them off with a warm "Have a nice day!"

With a proud, gentle smile, he shares that many international visitors make a point of returning to Natural Cafeina every year whenever they visit Japan—a true testament to the café's comforting, unforgettable charm.

Natural Cafeina

25 Karuizawahigashi, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano 389-0104