Kamakura is an area of Japan that consistently surprises me. Only an hour southwest of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, it has a culture all its own. This culture, as I am slowly learning, is modern, open and relaxed. When visiting Kamakura, you will likely see scores of surfers on mopeds cruising by, or kicking back with a latte at one of the many cafés. One such café, Copen Local Base, is a cool twist on the traditional car showroom.
Copen Local Base is simultaneously a showroom and a café. Situated a short walk from JR Kamakura Station, Copen Local Base serves a variety of coffees, smoothies, and healthy Mexican-inspired food. At the same time, inside the café you will find actual display cars. In fact, this establishment is owned by the famous Japanese car manufacturer Daihatsu!
To get to Copen Local Base, leave from JR Kamakura Station’s west exit. From there, head left until you reach the first intersection, then take another left. Soon you will arrive at a wide main road, and head right from there. Very soon you will find the café to your right.
Copen Local Base’s menu consists of a variety of vegetable-loaded, healthy Mexican foods, including tacos and burritos, many of which have vegetarian options. The menu is also reasonably priced, and most food items come with a drink set option, so you should be able to get a decent lunch for around 1,000 yen.
Some of the menu items (the full menu can be viewed on their website here).
Copen Local Base has a friendly and open atmosphere, with plenty of space to stretch out and relax. As the entire surroundings are windows, there is plenty of sunlight and you can even watch the famous Enoden line trains roll by if you sit at the back.
One thing I particularly found amusing was the merchandise Copen Local Base has on offer, which includes small models of their cars, among other things.
As we arrived early in the morning, we did not visit Copen Local Base for its food. I ordered a simple latte and relaxed at the back of the café, enjoying the sunlight as the Enoden train rolled along behind me.
The back of Copen Local Base had some decorations hung up on the wall which reminded me of places you might find along coastal Australia.
While I was not able to try the food from Copen Local Base, from what I saw and what I tasted in the coffee, I am positive what they do there is great quality. So if you are coffee-loving car enthusiast visiting Kamakura, this is an absolute must-visit. Enjoy!
