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CAFE MORI OUCHI: A HAVEN FOR THE NEGATIVELY INCLINED

Embracing Negativity: Finding Comfort in Tokyo's Mori Ouchi Café

11.04.2024
BY MAXWELL SOETOMO
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Amidst the bustling streets and neon lights of Tokyo lies a unique sanctuary, far from the conventional coffee shops and eateries that populate the city. Mori Ouchi, a quaint café nestled in the heart of Tokyo, is not just a place for a cup of coffee or a quick bite. It's a refuge meticulously designed to cater to those often ensnared in the complexities of negative thinking and pessimism.

The café, conceptualized as a haven for souls wounded by the pressures of everyday life, is the brainchild of a group of individuals deeply concerned about the mental well-being of Japanese society.

Genesis of Mori Ouchi Café

Founder of Mori Ouchi, a small café in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, had long contemplated the idea of creating a space for individuals grappling with negative thoughts. However, it wasn't until three years ago, amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, that the concept materialized into reality.

"People always say being positive is good and being negative is bad, but I don't think having a negative mindset is necessarily a bad thing," expressed the owner to Sora News 24. "In my opinion, many people with negative thoughts tend to be more sensitive and easily hurt than others, so I created a space specifically for them."

A Unique Décor and Ambiance

Mori Ouchi boasts a distinctive ambiance, with its self-constructed woodland-themed décor. Despite its tranquil setting, the café may not seem like an obvious choice for pessimists. However, it offers private spaces where patrons can be themselves without the fear of judgment.

An Unconventional Menu

Adding to its eccentricity is Mori Ouchi's menu, featuring drinks with uniquely peculiar names that mirror the realm of negativity. From "The Only Good Thing About My Father is He's Genuine, But 22 Years Ago He Suddenly Disappeared and Left a Note Saying 'Pegasi Are Real'" to "Yesterday, I Buried the Cursed Kokeshi Doll in the Mountain Forest, But When I Woke Up This Morning, the Doll Was Back on My Shelf," the menu captures the essence of melancholy and introspection.

According to the owner, most of the menu items at Mori Ouchi are crafted with bright-colored ingredients, often leaving customers disappointed with their taste. Nevertheless, the vibrant hues of the ingredients create a visually striking and unique blend.

In a country renowned for its plethora of unique cafés, each with its distinct charm, Mori Ouchi stands out as a captivating haven for those inclined towards negativity and pessimism. Amidst the gleaming towers and bustling streets of Tokyo, this unassuming café offers solace to souls seeking refuge from the relentless pressures of modern life.

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