Hi, it’s Sachi!
Today I’d love to introduce Oishi Chaya, a charming traditional tea house tucked away behind Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
This historic spot is said to have been founded by Ishi Ezaki, one of the “Three Great Beauties of Chikuzen” during the Meiji and Taisho eras.
Her beauty and warm personality became the stuff of local legend, attracting writers, politicians, and wealthy patrons who visited regularly.
More than 150 years later, the tea house still preserves its nostalgic Taisho-era atmosphere and timeless charm.
Interestingly, Oishi Chaya is even mentioned in Masashi Sada’s famous song “Tobiume,” a beloved tune inspired by Dazaifu’s history.
History of Oishi Chaya: The Story of “Oishi-san,” Dazaifu’s Legendary Beauty
Locals affectionately called her “Oishi-san.”
Her beauty and cheerful personality became so well known that even people in Tokyo heard about her, and many travelers stopped by Oishi Chaya just to meet her.
Among her guests were Prince Takamatsu of the Imperial Family, poet Ujō Noguchi, lyricist Isamu Yoshii, former Prime Minister Tsuyoshi Inukai, politician Taketora Ogata, diplomat Yōsuke Matsuoka, and Yasuzemon Matsunaga, known as “the Demon of Electricity.”
Even Prime Minister Eisaku Satō was said to have visited frequently—from his younger days as a local stationmaster to his years in office.
From the entertainment world, famous figures such as Masashi Sada, Kazuo Hasegawa, and Hideko Takamine also stopped by.
When prime ministers and celebrated artists all came to see her, it’s easy to imagine just how charming and admired Oishi-san must have been.
The Red-Brick Tunnel near Dazaifu Tenmangu – A Hidden Romantic Legend
Next to the tea house, you’ll notice a small red-brick tunnel.
Locals call it the “Oishi-san Tunnel.”
According to one romantic story, a wealthy coal-mine owner, who admired Oishi-san, built the tunnel so she could walk directly from her home to the tea house without taking a long detour.
In reality, though, it was constructed for visitors heading to Kamado Shrine and Mount Hōman, popular pilgrimage and hiking destinations.
Still, the very fact that such a rumor existed shows how beloved and captivating Oishi-san was in her time.
Inside Oishi Chaya: Step into a Taisho-Era Japanese Tea House
Step inside Oishi Chaya, and you’ll find a warm, nostalgic atmosphere filled with traditional Japanese charm.
Tatami seating covered with red cloth and cozy counter seats facing the garden create a space that feels like stepping back into the Taisho era. ✨
On sunny days, the outdoor benches are perfect for relaxing under the gentle sunlight while listening to the birds sing.
It’s the kind of peaceful moment that makes you forget time itself.
(It happened to be rainy when I visited, though ☔)
Matcha & Umegae Mochi at Oishi Chaya – Traditional Sweets and Local Lunch in Dazaifu
On my visit, I tried the Umegae Mochi and Matcha set, one of Oishi Chaya’s classics.
For just ¥600, you get a freshly grilled mochi with a warm bowl of matcha — a perfect combo!
The Umegae Mochi was hot and crispy on the outside, soft and chewy inside.
It paired beautifully with the slightly bitter matcha, making me feel like I was truly experiencing the essence of Dazaifu.
Maybe it’s the cozy atmosphere, but somehow it tasted even better than the ones sold along the main street! ☺️
They also serve light lunch dishes such as Ume-flavored udon noodles and Oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl),
so it’s a great spot if you want a relaxing meal between sightseeing stops.
How to Get to Oishi Chaya and Visitor Information
Address: 4-7-43 Saifu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka
Access: About a 15-minute walk from Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station
Hours: 11:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Last Order 4:00 p.m.)
Seating: Around 70 seats indoors and 30 outdoor seats (outdoor seating unavailable on rainy days)
How to Get There
After passing the main hall of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, continue along the quiet path through the North Garden (Hokushin’en).
A little further in, surrounded by peaceful greenery, you’ll find a charming old house — Oishi Chaya.
It’s a calm and relaxing hideaway away from the busy main street, perfect for taking a quiet break.
You’ll also find Tenkai Inari Shrine, another lovely spot to visit nearby, so it’s nice to see both on the same walk! ⛩️
Through the Red-Brick Tunnel to Kamado Shrine
Next to the tea house, you’ll notice the red-brick “Oishi-san Tunnel” mentioned earlier.
If you walk through it and turn right, then follow the uphill road, you’ll eventually reach Kamado Shrine.
I actually tried walking there myself — it took me about 30 minutes, and it started raining halfway! ☔
If the weather’s nice, it’s a pleasant walk through nature,
but otherwise, I’d recommend taking the Mahoroba Bus from Dazaifu Station for a more comfortable trip. 🚌
Conclusion
Just behind Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, there’s a small tea house quietly preserving over 150 years of history.
Once visited by poets, politicians, and locals alike, Oishi Chaya still carries the same warmth and charm that have made it a beloved place for generations.
If you’re visiting Dazaifu, take a little detour from the busy main street and spend a peaceful moment here.
You might just find yourself touched by the gentle spirit of Oishi-san and the timeless beauty of old Japan.
May your journey in Dazaifu be filled with happiness and good fortune — Sachi♪
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