Kissyan Eirakucho Matsu: A Fusion of Tradition and Contemporary Design

Japanese Grilled Meat Restaurant in Osaka

In the heart of Osaka, a unique and captivating dining experience awaits at Kissyan Eirakucho Matsu, a Japanese grilled meat restaurant designed by Hajime Yoshimoto. This innovative project takes an existing building from the middle of the Edo period and infuses it with a modern twist, creating a harmonious fusion of tradition and contemporary design.

The inspiration for this design came from the historical Kitashinchi area, known for its rich cultural heritage. The existing building, completed in 1998, features eaves inspired by traditional Japanese Coiffure combs. Yoshimoto's goal was to preserve the facade while developing it further, creating a dramatic space that would become a new landmark in the area.

One of the standout features of Kissyan Eirakucho Matsu is the original landscape, which is painted with graded colors reminiscent of dyed Washi paper. This unique approach breathes new life into the existing facade, complemented by a moss garden that adds a touch of tranquility to the surroundings.

Inside the restaurant, guests are treated to an immersive dining experience. The counter seats area resembles a stage, where diners can enjoy live kitchen performances akin to the traditional Japanese theatrical art form, Noh. A featured pine tree relief made of tin adds a touch of elegance and symbolism to the space.

The private rooms at Kissyan Eirakucho Matsu are designed to evoke the changing seasons, with each room representing spring, summer, autumn, or winter. This thoughtful touch adds a distinct Japanese vibe to the dining experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Overcoming creative and technical challenges, Yoshimoto successfully created a three-dimensional pine tree relief using tin. This contemporary interpretation of a traditional symbol required meticulous craftsmanship, with each leaf, stem, and branch carefully handcrafted to achieve the desired effect.

Kissyan Eirakucho Matsu is a testament to the power of design to transform spaces and create unique experiences. By blending Japanese tradition with contemporary elements, Hajime Yoshimoto has created a restaurant that not only satisfies culinary cravings but also captivates with its artistic and innovative design.

This design was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2021, recognizing its well-designed, practical, and innovative approach. Kissyan Eirakucho Matsu stands as a testament to the integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, contributing to a better world through its fulfillment and positive impact.