For Hideto Irikawa, a successful cafe is a hub that offers ¡°community access for everyone.¡±
Of course, what ¡°community¡± looks like depends entirely on the neighborhood, and Tokyo¡¯s vary immensely in atmosphere, from the subculture vibes of Harajuku to the more traditional Asakusa and everything in between. What¡¯s common to each is an effort to take advantage of Tokyo¡¯s rising tourist numbers, and many cafes are starting to offer innovative ways to combine quality coffee and sightseeing.
One of Irikawa¡¯s newer ventures, Trex Toranomon Cafe, combines a specialty bike shop with an all-purpose cafe space. Toranomon is a business district, positioned between the more tourist-friendly Ginza and Roppongi neighborhoods. But that makes the area, and Trex, the perfect starting point for those who want to experience Tokyo on two wheels and also grab a meal or cup of coffee. Taking advantage of the unique characteristics of a particular neighborhood ¡ª something that Irikawa researches extensively in advance ¡ª are how cafes can positively contribute to machi-zukuri, or ¡°urban development.¡±
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