Nihonbashi Kabutocho was once known purely as Tokyo’s financial district, a forest of cold office buildings. However, in recent years, it has undergone a dramatic transformation. It is now a cultural hub where historical architecture blends with stylish shops and restaurants. A symbol of this renaissance is “Bank,” a complex renovated from a former bank building constructed in 1952.
As a digital marketer, I spend my weekdays swimming in a sea of information. Therefore, on weekends, I walk the city streets to reclaim my senses. This time, I visited “Coin Nihonbashi,” a cafe and bar located in the basement of Bank, right where the grand vault used to be. Here is my report on the serene and beautiful time spent behind those heavy doors.
A Space Retaining the Memory of a Former Bank
Passing through the heavy entrance of “Bank,” I descended the stairs to the basement. A silence different from the ground level filled the air. The name “coin” likely derives from the history of this place as a bank.
Upon entering, the contrast between the exposed concrete and the warm interior immediately catches the eye. The rough concrete ceiling, part of the original structure, is decorated with orderly wooden louvers and countless hanging dried flowers.
The shadows cast by the spotlights give the space depth. There is no sense of confinement one might expect from a former vault or waiting room. Instead, that enclosed feeling creates a comforting, hideaway-like sense of security. For Photomo readers who appreciate a monotone and minimal worldview, this aesthetic will surely resonate.
An Afternoon Tea Time: The Table Scenery
I took a seat to enjoy a late afternoon tea. The wooden table, resembling a tree stump, conveyed warmth to my fingertips. I ordered coffee, herbal tea, and two types of cakes.
Since “coin” is part of the “Bank” complex, which also houses a bistro and bakery, the quality of sweets and drinks is guaranteed. The tray arrived with sophisticated tableware and visually stunning sweets. This sight alone seemed to melt away my weekday fatigue.
Incidentally, some of the bread served here comes from “Bakery Bank” on the first floor. If you like it, I recommend stopping by to buy some souvenirs. The croissants and sourdough are particularly excellent, as I have detailed in a previous article.
▼Read the Bakery Bank Review here
https://photomo.blog/en/bakery-bank-nihonbashi-kabutocho-review-en/
Spiced, Moist, and Rich Banana Bread
First, I tasted the thick-sliced banana bread. Inserting my fork, I could feel its density and moist texture. In my mouth, the rich sweetness of banana spread along with a fragrant hint of cinnamon. The exquisite use of spices makes this more than just a sweet cake; it is a flavor for adults.
The generous dollop of fresh cream was not overly sweet and had a light mouthfeel. The balance with the rich cake was calculated perfectly, making it an excellent pairing with coffee.
A Sophisticated Iced Cake
The second item was a pound cake topped generously with white icing. The plump form of the icing was adorable. Cutting into it revealed a moist crumb with a layer of cream in the center and accents like chocolate chips at the bottom.
The contrast between the crunchy texture of the icing and the smoothness of the cake was delightful. I enjoyed this with herbal tea, which highlighted the refreshing citrus notes and created an elegant moment.
Exploring the “Bank” Complex
While tea time at “coin” is blissful, if you have come all the way to Nihonbashi Kabutocho, why not visit other stores in the “Bank” building or nearby sister shops?
If you want a substantial meal, “Bistro yen” on the first floor is recommended. You can enjoy classic yet innovative cuisine in a space renovated from a former bank cafeteria. The monkfish pasta I had for lunch there was unforgettable.
▼Read the Bistro yen Lunch Review here
https://photomo.blog/en/bistro-yen-tokyo-lunch-review-en/
For desserts using fresh fruit, head to “Patisserie ease,” just a short walk away. Furthermore, if you love chocolate, “Teal” is a must-visit. This entire area has truly become a museum of food and design.
▼Patisserie ease Complete Guide
https://photomo.blog/en/patisserie-ease-kabutocho-complete-guide-en/
▼Teal Sweets & Ice Cream Details
https://photomo.blog/en/teal-nihonbashi-kabutocho-sweets-ice-cream-en/
Essential Information for Visiting “Coin”
Finally, I have organized information focusing on points often searched by those planning a visit. Please use this as a practical guide.
Coin Nihonbashi Reservation
Weekend tea times are particularly popular and often full. Currently, the ability to reserve for cafe use may vary depending on the season and time, so it is safer to check the official Instagram or reservation sites for the latest information. If you plan to visit during bar hours at night, checking in advance is better. It is a space worth queuing for, but visiting with time to spare is advisable.
Coin Nihonbashi Cafe Appeal
Although often searched as “Coin Nihonbashi Cafe,” this shop is more than a simple coffee shop. The space, with its attention to candlelight and lighting design, is perfect for reading or quietly lost in thought. A style of spending time savoring the space itself suits it better than lively chatter. While you should check for Wi-Fi on-site, the atmosphere makes you want to detox from digital devices rather than open a PC.
Nihonbashi Coin Menu Variety
The menu changes with the seasons. In addition to the baked goods introduced this time, such as banana bread and pound cake, they offer specialty coffee and herbal tea. Furthermore, the alcohol menu, including craft gin and wine, is extensive at night. The appeal lies in enjoying two faces: tea time with patisserie cakes by day, and a bar by night.
Coin Nihonbashi Access
Access is excellent. The nearest station is Kayabacho Station on the Tokyo Metro. It is a few minutes’ walk from the exit towards Kabutocho. It is also within walking distance from Nihonbashi Station. Look for the building named “Bank” with its old bank architecture facade. Descend the stairs immediately after entering, and you will find Coin in the basement.
Bank Coin Nihonbashi Complex
“Bank Coin Nihonbashi” combines the facility name “Bank” and the shop name “coin.” The entire building reinterprets the context of the former bank. The bakery “bank” and bistro “yen” on the first floor, along with “coin” in the basement, are all unified by money-related naming, which is quite witty.
Coin Kayabacho Location
While the address is Nihonbashi Kabutocho, many recognize it as “Coin Kayabacho” due to the nearest station. The Kayabacho area has a strong history as a securities town. However, with the emergence of renovation facilities like this, it is transforming into an area where young generations and creators gather. Coin is one of its iconic spots.
Coffee Bar Shop Coin Menu Features
You may see it described as “Coffee Bar Shop Coin.” As the name suggests, it combines elements of a coffee shop, a bar, and a shop. The menu sometimes features curated tableware and goods, suggesting a whole lifestyle. The price of a drink is not cheap, but considering this spatial experience, the pricing is fully justified.
Coin Cafe Usage Tips
Using “Coin Cafe” is ideal when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Being underground, it shuts out external light and sound, allowing a unique time to flow. Visiting with friends is fine, but I strongly recommend visiting alone to concentrate on the space and flavors.
Coin in Nihonbashi Kabutocho. It was a unique place where past and present, solidity and lightness intersect. I invite you to visit and feel the atmosphere for yourself.
