Mashiko, Japan, is not only famous for its pottery but also for its thriving cafe scene. Midnight Breakfast, the cafe that opens earliest in town, has become a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. In this interview with owner Yuki Hayase, we explore what makes this cafe unique and why it’s a must-visit destination in Mashiko.
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The First Stop of the Morning
Midnight Breakfast is the earliest-opening coffee stand in Mashiko Town. Housed in a renovated gas station that sat unused for over 30 years, this cozy spot starts filling the air with the rich aroma of coffee from 7 AM.
Since it’s right along a school route, it’s become a favorite gathering place for both kids and adults, with families often stopping by for a bite. The menu features freshly baked bread and cookies made with locally sourced ingredients like Tochigi-grown wheat, Mashiko eggs, and natural sweeteners like brown sugar and beet sugar.
You’ll find rare flavors in Japan, like homemade American-style cookies and a milk tea infused with Tieguanyin, a fragrant Chinese oolong tea.
A Place to Discover New Value
Owner Yuki Hayase first came to Mashiko Town as part of a local revitalization team. She studied abroad in the U.S. during university and did a working holiday at a guesthouse in Taiwan. With Mashiko attracting visitors from across Japan and beyond, especially during its pottery fairs, she saw an opportunity to bring her international experience to life here.
With the theme of “Local × Upcycling × Breakfast,” the cafe reflects this vision in many ways. The tables are made from old doors and decorations passed down from the landlord, and the kids’ games are handmade using plastic bottle caps and other recycled materials. Instead of throwing things away, she adds new value and gives them a second life. Inspired by her vision, locals bring in plastic and other materials they no longer need.
Next door, the garage is home to JUUGA’s brand, Made in 936, featuring sustainable tableware, clocks, and more. Together with Yuki, they promote an eco-friendly and mindful way of living.
Where New Encounters Happen
“Heading out early in the morning somehow makes the whole day feel better. I wanted to create a place where everyone can start their day feeling good,” says Yuki Hayase.
Her cafe has become a gathering spot for all kinds of people—some stop by for freshly baked cookies before work, while others take their time enjoying a leisurely breakfast.
Looking ahead, she plans to open a mid-to-long-term stay guesthouse in spring 2025, just less than 1min walk from Midnight Breakfast. With the theme “Living and Connecting,” this space will offer visitors a chance to experience life in Mashiko while meeting new people and discovering new things.
Why don’t you start your morning on a happy note at Midnight Breakfast.
Details of Midnight Breakfast
Contact: View Website
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Address: 936, Mashiko-machi Haga-gun, Tochigi, Japan
Business Hours: 7:00 – 12:00, Closes on Monday to Wednesday.
