A Hidden Retreat by the Sea. Why “Siesta” in Kotsubo, Zushi Is a Café You’ll Want to Return To

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Hi, this is Peli from Hayama Navi!
I share some of the best spots around Hayama.
I post on Instagram almost every day, so feel free to follow along! Instagram link

“I just want to find a café where I can truly relax.”

Have you ever felt that way?

This time, I’d like to introduce a special place in Kotsubo, Zushi.

Cafe Siesta hidamari cafe La SIESTA del Sol.

If you look up from Kotsubo fishing port, you’ll notice a bright yellow building standing out on the hill.

I had been curious about this place for a long time.

And when I finally visited, I realized—

this isn’t just a café, but a place filled with reasons to come back again and again.

Highlight ①: The journey itself feels like a hidden adventure

To be honest, this café is located in a very hard-to-find spot.

From Kotsubo fishing port, you head up into the hills,

following narrow paths and stairways that feel almost like a maze.

Peli

“Wait… is this really the right way?” I found myself thinking that multiple times

Some parts of the path aren’t even fully paved,

which makes it feel like a small adventure.

But the moment you finally see that yellow building,

you’ll instantly feel it was worth the effort.

For detailed directions, check their official Facebook page (reference)

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I went from the Kotsubo side, and it honestly felt like a mini hike—but that’s part of what makes it fun.

Highlight ②: Like stepping into someone’s home—time slows down here

As soon as you step inside, you’ll notice the incredible sense of comfort.

There are several sofa seats,

and it feels as if you’ve been invited into someone’s living room.

On the walls, you’ll find multiple pendulum clocks.

Each one shows a different time,

creating a slightly surreal atmosphere.

The background music blends with the ticking sounds,

forming a space where you naturally lose track of time.

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This is the kind of place where you suddenly realize you’ve been staying way longer than planned.

Highlight ③: The view, the sounds, the air—everything is part of the experience

Step out onto the terrace,

and in front of you spreads a stunning view of Zushi Marina and the ocean.

The sound of waves, the cries of kites,

and the wide open sky above.

This is a place you experience with all five senses,

going far beyond what you expect from a café.

On a clear day, it becomes even more special.

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I couldn’t see Mt. Fuji when I visited, but the sunset was absolutely beautiful. Timing your visit for sunset would be perfect.

Highlight ④: Even the waiting time becomes part of the enjoyment

This time, I ordered

Braised hamburger steak (with bread)

Gratin (with bread)

Both dishes had a rich, homemade flavor,

and you could really feel the care put into every bite.

It takes a little time for the food to be served,

but there are books and magazines available inside,

so even the waiting time feels comfortable.

It’s a café where

you can truly enjoy the time you spend waiting.

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The hamburger steak and gratin both came out piping hot—so good! The view and the food together make it even better.

Notes for Families with Children

Children are welcome (with consideration)

Since the space is calm and relaxed,

it’s important to be mindful of noise levels.

That said, with comfortable sofa seating,

it’s a great place for laid-back meetups with kids.

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If you come from Kotsubo, the slope might be a bit tough for kids. There may be another route via Hiroyama, so that could be worth checking.

Dog-Friendly Information

Dogs are welcome on the terrace.

I actually saw guests visiting with their dogs,

and the owner thoughtfully helped protect them from kites.

※ Be careful, as kites are common in the area

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The view from the terrace is amazing. I didn’t even realize it was set up at first, but when guests arrived with a dog, it was quickly prepared. Seems usable even in winter!