“KOE no KURA,” located in Ōishida Town, Yamagata Prefecture, opened in 2017 after renovating a traditional storehouse. Designed as a community space where people, goods, and ideas from both Ōishida and beyond can connect, it has become a beloved local hub. Its location—just steps from JR Ōishida Station—is another major draw. Visitors use it for sightseeing information, café breaks, and as a working space. Here’s a report on what I found charming during my visit!

What Is “KOE no KURA” in Front of Ōishida Station?

KOE no KURA is a cultural exchange facility that supports artistic and creative activities in Ōishida Town. In other words, it is a space where culture and people intersect—with “people, culture, and voices” at its core.

The building is a more-than-100-year-old earthen storehouse renovated and reopened in August 2017. It is operated by Ōishida Town, and the day‑to‑day activities are run by members of the local revitalization team.

Ōishida once prospered through river transport on the Mogami River, and several impressive storehouses still remain in town.
The building stands right next to JR Ōishida Station—about a 30‑second walk.

The entrance is covered for winter. This is what it typically looks like during snowy months—especially this year, with heavy snowfall throughout the town.

Stepping Inside KOE no KURA

Let’s head inside!

A noren curtain and the thick earthen storehouse door welcome you as you enter.

1st Floor: Working Space & Café

The first floor is a working space where you can enjoy carefully brewed hand‑drip coffee. Free Wi‑Fi is available, and I saw several people working on their laptops.

Along the wall is a rental display area called KOE no HAKO, featuring handcrafted items made by creators from Ōishida and nearby towns. There are 15 rental boxes in total. Registration is free, the monthly rental fee is 500 yen, and a 10% commission applies to sales.

I picked up one of the items myself—so cute, right?

The first floor also offers sightseeing information and consultation for relocation to Ōishida. They even provide free luggage storage.

Rental Spaces on Both Floors

The building also has rental spaces on both the first and second floors. They can be used for workshops, events, or group reservations. A kitchen is available as well.

Fees start at 1,000 yen per 4‑hour block (500 yen for town residents). If you use the kitchen, an additional 300 yen per 4 hours is required (same for residents and non‑residents).

A monthly facial esthetic session is also held here.

Food & Sweets Can Be Brought Into the Café!

The café on the first floor serves coffee only (hot or iced). During my visit, they were using beans from “BOTA coffee” in Nanokamachi, Yamagata City, as part of their “Coffee Connection Vol. 4.”

Coffee Connection is a collaboration project between KOE no KURA and coffee shops across Yamagata Prefecture. Depending on the period, you can enjoy coffee from different local roasters.

Another surprising rule:
You can bring in food or sweets purchased from shops within Ōishida Town—and your coffee will be 100 yen off.

For example:
– Dango from the famous Mogami River Senbon Dango
– Chocolates from AndMERCI
– Taiyaki from Taiyakiya Gin no Ryū

All can be enjoyed inside the café after purchase. Plus, you get a discount on coffee. Even locals might not know this!

Basic Information: KOE no KURA

KOE no KURA is a lively community hub located just steps from JR Ōishida Station.

Use it as a working space, rent a room with friends, or simply drop by for coffee. It’s a flexible space that suits many purposes—so be sure to make use of it!

Summary

KOE no KURA is a relaxing spot you can drop by anytime—during a work break, while waiting for the Shinkansen, when you simply want good coffee, or when meeting friends. It’s a place where voices, people, and culture meet, creating new connections.

They publish a monthly newsletter called “Kawaraban,” which includes schedules and special event announcements. Be sure to check it before your visit.