Umi no mieru Oka no Atelier

令和6年度　伴走型小規模事業者支援推進事業　別府商工会議所

“We are only open on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays,”Mrs. Fujiko, the owner of the atelier, states as she counts the days of the week on her fingers and smiles.

“When my husband was transferred to Oita Prefecture, we rented a house in Hamawaki, Beppu. In that neighbourhood, elementary school kids used to visit the public baths in the morning! It was quite a culture shock!” she shares.

She found her current home, which also serves as her atelier, while searching for a house with a sea view for her cat.

The cafe space on the second floor, which offers a spectacular view, was originally used as an atelier. However, Mrs. Fujiko transformed it into a gallery and cafe once it was no longer needed for that purpose.

In her cafe, where her cat Komugi-chan roams freely, a piano and a bass are arranged, and stylish paintings and objects adorn the walls.

She enjoys visiting Shibaseki and Horita Onsen, earning her the title of hot spring expert!

The exquisite cakes and quiches served in her cafe are handmade by her neighbours, and she even employs APU students part-time.

Mrs. Fujiko mentions that the cafe could operate full-time now that her children are all grown up. However, she prefers the current pace because it would mean more customers and limited parking spaces.

With many hobbies, her smile reflects her enjoyment of life. She is a woman I aspire to emulate as I grow older.

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