One can’t help but smile after chancing upon the Pikinini street café, set off to one side of the main road running through Niseko Town.
Centred around the delightfully illustrated Pikinini food van, its gardens, terraces, bridges, water fountains and mystery doors provide a wonderland that keep children entertained for hours. Meanwhile, adults can sit back, relax, enjoy an organic coffee, cake or pita bread sandwich, and soak in the laid back pace of Niseko Town in the summer.
”Pikinini is another wonderful example of the creativity and positivity that Niseko attracts
Operators Kimitaka and Rie Ohashi have created the space from what would otherwise be an unwanted and lifeless little corner of dirt abandoned in the middle of the main street, and in the process added a world of character to the Niseko Town centre.
Kimitaka is from Sapporo, and Rie from Toyama, just near the famous ski area of Nagano on the mainland. Like many of Niseko’s like-minded newer residents, they decided to move here after being overwhelmed by the various attributes that make up Niseko as a destination – abundant nature, inspiring scenery, clean air and water, fresh produce, onsen (hot springs), the ski resorts and the international atmosphere.
They have both devoted time in developing nations as Japanese Overseas Cooperation Volunteers and spent time volunteering in Papua New Guinea, which is where the inspiration for the name of their van came from.
“The people we met through our experiences left a deep impression on us because although they were poor, they were always smiling and happy,” says Kimitaka-san. “‘Pikinini’ means ‘child’, and also carries with it a much deeper meaning – the implication of passing on the earth’s rich natural environment to our future generations.
“The fundamental concepts behind Pikinini are environmental consideration and food security. With these values in mind we consciously source locally grown, additive-free food that can be enjoyed locally.
“It’s our belief that eating healthy and delicious food contributes to the creation of a peaceful world in which everyone smiles. We opened Pikinini as our contribution to creating a happier society.”
When is a great time for Pikinini?
- If you would like a convenient and balanced meal.
- If you are mid-work or drive and want delicious local food.
- If you want to take a break mid-stroll around the town.
- If you would like a delicious memory of your trip to Niseko.
- If you are on a date!
- If you want to enjoy an additive-free meal with your child.
- If you would like to try organic coffee instead of your usual blend.
- If you want to savour a hot drink outside with friends.
- If you want a change of pace.
- If your interest is piqued as you drive by.
(SOURCE: PIKININI)
This article appeared in Summerlife 2013
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