Setsuryō-an

A gallery and cafe run by sculptor Noboru Kawanaka.

Nearby Ryokans

About Setsuryō-an

Setsuryō-an, located in the remote mountain village of Nishikata in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, is a gallery and cafe run by sculptor Noboru Kawanaka. After driving about 10 to 15 minutes up a mountain road from Kiyotsu Gorge—famous for its Tunnel of Light—a large traditional Japanese house built from reclaimed timber from the abandoned village appears. Its exterior is built to withstand Tokamachi’s heavy snowfall, surrounded by deep greenery.

Mr. Kawanaka is originally from Hyogo Prefecture and moved to Tokamachi, drawn by his longing for a snowy region. About four years ago, he revitalized this house as a gallery cafe by reusing old timber that had been lying dormant in the village.

Inside, alongside his own sculptures and woodwork, pieces by other artists are also displayed and sold. Visitors can relax and enjoy coffee while appreciating the art.

Art and Coffee Savored in a Mountain Hideaway

The charm of Setsuryō-an lies in the harmonious blend of nature, art, and coffee within a single space. Surrounding the building are expanses of cedar forests and terraced rice fields, offering scenery that changes with the seasons. In spring, fresh greenery sprouts along the Kiyotsu River as snowmelt flows. Summer brings deep greenery and refreshing mountain breezes. Autumn paints the mountains crimson with autumn leaves. Winter unfolds the unique silence and pure white landscapes of a heavy snowfall area, where the warmth of the wood-burning stove leaves a lasting impression. If you’re concerned about driving on snowy roads, we recommend visiting from spring to autumn.

Inside the shop, the popular Setsuryō-an Blend, carefully brewed by Mr. Kawanaka, is a highlight. It features a deep roast with a subtle sweet aftertaste. As Mr. Kawanaka says, “Tokamachi has delicious water, so the coffee tastes great too,” and indeed, the coffee’s flavor is exceptional.

Additionally, original light meals are served daily. You might find sandwiches made with homemade bread, veggie curry using local ingredients, or soy milk sweets. Enjoying them while taking in the seasonal scenery makes them taste even better.

The gallery space displays wooden sculptures and iron sculptures created by Mr. Kawanaka under the name “Gakuu,” alongside ceramics, glassware, and accessories by local artists. This region hosts the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale every three years, and you can find works by artists from this event here too, perfect as souvenirs for your trip.

The building itself resembles a work of art. Its 7-meter-high atrium, thick beams, and old pillars create an atmosphere that makes it a popular photo spot. The music resonating through the atrium is also highly praised as something special. Business days and exhibition information are shared via SNS, so please check the official Instagram for the latest updates.

The best part of Setsuryō-an

How to Enjoy & Recommended Itineraries

Setsuryō-an offers exceptional access from the tourist attraction Kiyotsu Gorge. Here, we introduce a journey that takes you to both. Please note that Setryoan’s business days and hours change frequently, so be sure to confirm their operating status by phone (090-9706-0290) or via Instagram before visiting.

Upon arriving at Joetsu Shinkansen’s Echigo-Yuzawa Station, head first to Kiyotsu Gorge. Kiyotsu Gorge ranks among Japan’s Three Great Gorges alongside Kurobe Gorge and Osugi Valley. Its 750-meter-long gorge tunnel has been renovated into the art installation “Tunnel of Light.” Highlights include light installations themed around the five natural elements (wood, earth, metal, fire, water) and the water mirror at the Panorama Station.

Setsuryō-an is about a 10-minute drive up the mountain road from Kiyotsukyo Gorge. Enjoy the pristine Japanese scenery from the car window along the way. The road is narrow, so you’ll need to watch out for oncoming traffic, but there is free parking for eight cars.

First, take your time to admire the artworks in the quiet interior of the restaurant. While savoring Setsuryō-an Blend and a seasonal lunch, you can hear from Kawanaka about the behind-the-scenes stories of his work and the history of the village. From your window seat, the changing seasonal scenery fills the entire window. In the cold seasons, the wood-burning stove will gently warm you.

Drive further up the mountain to explore the terraced rice fields, or visit scattered works from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, such as the Echigo-Tsumari Satoyama Museum of Contemporary Art MonET and the Matsudai Nohbutai Art Park in Tokamachi City.

We recommend traveling by car for this itinerary. While buses can take you to Kiyotsu Gorge, a car is essential for getting further. Renting a car near Echigo-Yuzawa Station or Tokamachi Station is a good option.

Basic Information

Spot Name: Setsuryō-an

Business Hours & Regular Holidays: Irregular hours and holidays. Check Instagram or call for operating days.

Phone Number: 090-9706-0290

Official Website : tsumari-gakuu.com

Instagram：@tumaarigakuu

Parking: 8 spaces (free)

Notes

・Roads within the village are narrow and winding; drive carefully.

・Heavy snowfall occurs in winter; studless tires or chains are required.

・Artworks are available for purchase. Payment accepted in cash or by credit card.

アクセス

Address: 559-2 Nishikata-mi, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 949-8436

Access Methods:

Train + Car: Get off at Echigo-Yuzawa Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen. Approximately 30 minutes by car from the station. Alternatively, take the bus bound for Kiyotsu Gorge, get off at “Kiyotsu Gorge Entrance,” then take a taxi.
By Car: From the Kan-Etsu Expressway “Shiozawa/Ishiuchi IC”, take National Route 353 for about 25 minutes, then proceed through Kiyotsu Gorge and continue on mountain roads for 10-15 minutes.