Café Honyarado: A Cultural Hub in Kyoto
A Unique Community Space
Café Honyarado, co-founded by renowned street photographer Kai Fusayoshi, serves as a vital center for counterculture, artistry, and activism in Kyoto. The café has become a gathering place for a diverse array of individuals, including artists, activists, and local residents.
Memorable Events and Exhibitions
Fusayoshi recalls hosting a large open-air exhibition along the Kamo River, featuring a sign that enticed visitors with the question, “Are you in these photos?” This event turned into a neighborhood festival, drawing in teachers, policemen, families, and children.
Capturing Kyoto Life
Fusayoshi has been documenting the vibrant life of Kyoto since the 1970s. He has captured various moments, ranging from children playing in dramatic weather to communal gatherings at the café.
Acknowledgments and Achievements
Fusayoshi’s contributions have not gone unnoticed; he received the Kyoto Fine Arts Cultural Award in 2009 and later the Jean Larivière prize at France’s Salon des Beaux Arts in 2014.
The Rich Tapestry of Stories
The café is filled with heartwarming anecdotes, including Fusayoshi’s memories of various parties held there. One story involves the son of a founder, frequently left behind to play with the café’s cats.
A Lasting Impact
Through various friendships formed at Café Honyarado, including those with notable figures like best-selling novelist Makoto Oda, the café continues to be a pivotal part of Kyoto’s social fabric.
Kids and Creativity
The café has also fostered creativity among children. Fusayoshi shares a touching story of a girl who persistently asked to have her photo taken, revealing the café’s enchanting atmosphere.
Supporting Local Crafts
The café also promotes local craftsmanship, with instances like Shige learning bread-making in Germany and returning to establish a beloved independent bread-making venture.
