A Historic Building Dating Back to 1912
Kitahama Retro Building was completed in 1912, during the 45th year of the Meiji era, as an office building for a stockbroker. It was later used as the headquarters of a trading company before being transformed in 1997 by its current owner into a shop specializing in British tea and sweets.
The building consists of two floors above ground and one basement level. Its brick construction and classic exterior preserve an atmosphere reminiscent of Osaka’s early modern era, allowing visitors to appreciate the architectural character of the period.
Distinctive Architectural Design
The openings on the front facade are framed with carefully cut granite stone, while the entrance is supported by four distinctive, modified arch-shaped columns.
The design incorporates elements reminiscent of British antique architecture, while the second floor features a particularly spacious layout. The combination of brickwork, stone details, arches, and carefully considered proportions creates a classic atmosphere that reflects the architectural techniques and design sensibilities of its time.
A British-Inspired Interior
Step inside Kitahama Retro Building and the atmosphere changes completely. The interior is decorated in a British-inspired style, creating the feeling of stepping back in time to a charming corner of Britain.
On the first floor, visitors will find a shop displaying British-style cakes, tea-related goods, and other items. The second floor is a tearoom designed especially for tea lovers, furnished with British antique furniture and interior decorations.
The relaxed setting makes it an inviting place to enjoy a cup of tea and take a break from exploring the busy streets of central Osaka.
Attention to Every Interior Detail
The building’s British atmosphere extends down to the smallest details. Items such as British-made door handles and electrical switches were imported directly from Britain, helping create the distinctive character of the tearoom.
These carefully selected details complement the historic architecture and elegant furnishings, allowing visitors to enjoy a refined atmosphere while relaxing over tea and sweets.
Afternoon Tea, Cakes, and a Wide Selection of Tea
One of the most popular choices at Kitahama Retro Building is the Afternoon Tea Set, which combines cakes, scones, sandwiches, and other treats in one elegant selection.
Tea lovers can choose from approximately 40 varieties of tea sourced from countries and regions including Britain, France, and India. The wide selection makes the tearoom an appealing destination for anyone interested in exploring different types of tea.
The cakes are also made by hand every day and are highly regarded for their taste. Enjoying freshly prepared sweets together with a carefully selected cup of tea is one of the highlights of a visit.
Views of the Nakanoshima Rose Garden
The second-floor café offers views overlooking the Nakanoshima Rose Garden. The scenery provides a pleasant backdrop for a leisurely afternoon tea in the heart of Osaka.
Because the landscape changes with the seasons, visitors can enjoy a different view throughout the year. The combination of historic architecture, British-style interiors, tea, sweets, and seasonal scenery creates a distinctive café experience.
A Special Escape in Central Osaka
Although Kitahama Retro Building is located in the center of Osaka, stepping inside gives visitors the impression of entering a small street corner somewhere in Britain.
The building itself is an attraction, while the tea and sweets provide another reason to spend time here. Its historic architecture and carefully designed café space come together to create a memorable experience away from the bustle of everyday city life.
Visiting Kitahama Retro Building
Kitahama Retro Building is located in central Osaka and is easily accessible by public transportation. It is only a short walk from the nearest stations, making it convenient to include in a sightseeing itinerary around the Kitahama and central Osaka areas.
The building is generally open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., although opening hours may change for events or special occasions. Visitors are encouraged to check the latest schedule before visiting.
A Taste of Britain in Historic Osaka
Kitahama Retro Building brings together historic architecture, British-inspired design, tea, and handmade sweets in one distinctive destination. The building’s brick exterior and preserved architectural details are attractions in their own right, while the elegant tearoom offers a relaxing way to experience the atmosphere.
For visitors looking for a refined break during their exploration of Osaka, the Afternoon Tea Set is a particularly memorable way to enjoy the building. A leisurely tea surrounded by historic architecture and British-inspired décor offers a chance to experience a quieter and more elegant side of central Osaka.