Introduction
Today, I visited one of the oldest traditional kissaten (Japanese-style coffee shops) in the Shinjuku area, Coffee Peace, and would like to introduce it to you.
Established in 1955 — One of Shinjuku’s Oldest Kissaten
Coffee Peace is located just a three-minute walk from Shinjuku Station West Exit, in a busy and highly accessible area.
If you come from Shinjuku Station or Shinjuku-Sanchome Station via the underground passage, you can reach the shop without getting wet on rainy days.
Founded in 1955 (Showa 30), it is likely the oldest surviving kissaten in the Shinjuku area.
To understand how long ago 1955 was, here are some notable events from that year:
- Electric washing machines, refrigerators, and televisions became known as the “Three Sacred Treasures” in Japanese households
- Japan’s first transistor radio was released
- Korakuen Amusement Park opened (featuring Japan’s first full-scale roller coaster)
- The 1-yen and 50-yen coins were issued
- Radio Tokyo Television (later TBS) began broadcasting
- The predecessor terminal building of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) opened
Some hit products from 1955 included:
- KINCHO insecticide spray
- Folding umbrellas
- Pentel crayons
- Finger Chocolate by Morinaga
- Almond Glico
- Lunch Crackers
Thinking about Japan’s first transistor radio brings to mind the era depicted in the TV drama “Hiyokko.”
Among kissaten in the Shinjuku area, their founding years are approximately as follows:
- 1955 – Coffee Peace
- 1961 – Café Eikokuya (first shop opened in Osaka)
- 1964 – Coffee Seibu
- 1975 – Meikyoku & Coffee Shinjuku Ramburu
- 1980s – Coffee Times (exact year unknown)
The slanted font of the sign evokes a nostalgic Showa-era snack bar atmosphere.
The slightly weathered golden “Peace” lettering on the entrance door conveys the strength of a business that has operated for over 60 years.
Interior of Coffee Peace
While the space does not feel particularly large, the café has approximately 100 seats.
Smoking is permitted throughout the entire establishment, and nearly all customers are male.
As more cafés in Japan have become non-smoking, Coffee Peace remains a rare place where customers can freely smoke while enjoying coffee. For smokers, it may feel like an oasis.
Most customers are smoking, so it may be difficult for those sensitive to cigarette smoke. However, for those who do not mind it, the café feels comfortable and relaxed.
Not only the customers but also the staff—who appeared to possibly be band musicians—spend their time freely. It creates an atmosphere where one can concentrate quietly on work or personal tasks.
The background music consists of jazz and the sound of coffee beans being ground, creating a calm and relaxing environment.
Menu at Coffee Peace
Here is what I ordered during this visit:
- Blend Coffee – ¥520
- Iced Coffee – ¥520
- Mixed Sandwich – ¥700
The mixed sandwich is served with crusts on the bread, in a classic old-fashioned style.
Perhaps because most customers are male, the portion size is generous and very filling.
The egg sandwich has a nostalgic, home-style flavor that occasionally makes you crave it. It pairs perfectly with the strong hot coffee.
The ham sandwich contains simple ingredients—ham and cucumber. The mustard mayonnaise adds a pleasant accent, and the crisp texture of the cucumber stands out. Personally, I preferred it slightly more than the egg sandwich.
Summary
This time, I introduced Coffee Peace, founded in 1955 and considered the oldest kissaten in the Shinjuku area.
With jazz playing softly and the sound of coffee beans being ground, it is a place where you can spend a calm and relaxing moment.
If you are comfortable with cigarette smoke, it is well worth a visit.
Shop Information
Name: Coffee Peace
Address: 1F Shinjuku West Exit HALC, 1-5-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023
Access: 3-minute walk from Shinjuku Station West Exit
Hours: 9:00–22:45
Closed: None
Power Outlets: No
Wi-Fi: No
Smoking: Yes (Smoking allowed throughout)
Seats: 100
Payment: Cash only
Tabelog Score: 3.24
Looking for the original article in Japanese?
Click here to view the Japanese version on Daily Shinjuku.
https://daily-shinjuku.tokyo/2019/10/18/shinjuku-peace/
