One of the most important things when travelling is to be able to relax when enjoying your food. Of course, while there are many places in Japan where you can do this I've got to admit that when I first entered a restaurant in Japan I didn't find interior design to be particularly interesting or exciting. The open kitchens and simple designs was a very different experience to what I was used to back home.
The food, however, was always beautifully arranged, tasted great and while eating, I was rarely distracted by what was around me. In truth, it generally felt comfortable and cosy, even with the cooks preparing the food, almost like I was at home or a friend's house. The simple interior designs also make it is easy to clean. The more I thought about it, the more impressed I became with the Japanese neutral design.
Whether or not we are aware of it or not, colours have a strong influence upon us, creating the atmosphere around us. Looking over my photos of Japanese restaurants, I found that warm colours like ochre and yellow. Warm colours are associated with the sun and create a warm and comfortable ambience. The lighting is rarely bright, adding to the home-like feeling. Now I think of Japanese interiors as being not ‘faceless’ but rather, comfortably neutral.
There are many places with interesting designs and styles too. In Osaka I dined in a restaurant decorated with images of fish and fishing nets hung from the ceiling and walls. It was rather bright and cheerful! Another memorable place was the small restaurant run by a family in Yudanaka onsen. It was a real cosy home-like atmosphere with tables covered in tablecloths, shelves with dolls and collectables, framed pictures on walls and a TV set in the corner. With the nice hostess and tasty dinner I felt really at home - a priceless experience!
Best line EVER!