R. ZA READING CAFE (Update: 12/2)

A Coffee Shop Where You Can Enjoy Peace and Quiet
[updated December 2025]

If you’re looking for place to just get away from the hustle and bustle of central Tokyo and curl up with a book, or find a place to relax and unwind with some tea or coffee, R. Za Reading Café could be the perfect choice. Less than a five-minute walk from JR Koenji Station (and about 6 minutes from Shinjuku Station on the Chuo Line), R. Za Reading Cafe is a unique place in that not only is it a book café, but chatting is not allowed in this coffee shop at all so that people can immerse themselves in their reading or whatever moves them. All you can hear is the sound of water dripping into the aquarium and the ticking of the clock. Mr. Watanabe, the owner of the shop, wanted to supply a space where people could relax and forget about everyday life. Another unique feature is that a notebook is placed on each table, and you can write whatever you want to express. It may be interesting to read what previous guests have written (although it’s probably mostly in Japanese). Feel free to add your own messages in your native language!

The café focuses on beverages like coffee, milk tea, juice or chai (spiced Indian tea), most of which start at 680 yen. The menu is quite extensive beyond these, as it also includes a variety of soft drinks, hot milk drinks like spiced caramel milk, and Chinese teas such as the “Eight Treasures tea.” Hot teas or coffee served with cookies or snacks make a lovely tea break for your hectic day, while iced coffee or citrus soda make an excellent respite from the heat of Japan’s summer months.

Enjoy a relaxing time as a break from your hectic travel schedule reading or spending alone time at R-Za in Koenji.

ACCESS

Writers: Greg, TFF staff
Photographers: Kasamine, TFF staff