About the Cafe

Hello, traveler!
This is Mikan, writing for SaruKuma.

Today I’m taking you to one of the most enchanting cafes in the Aso region —
Cafe Tippel, tucked away in Kawayo, Minamiaso Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture.

Cafe Tippel is a charming cafe that feels like stepping straight into a German fairytale.

Even from the outside, the building radiates a cozy European charm…

But the magic of Cafe Tippel
doesn’t stop at the facade!

Wait until you see what’s waiting inside!

Cafe Tippel shares its grounds with Minamiaso Pension Nonbiri Mura, making it easy to combine with a relaxing countryside stay.

Parking is shared with the other shops on the property and is conveniently close to the entrance.

Now, let’s step inside!

Oh my — it’s overflowing with cuteness!
I visited around Christmas, and
a giant Christmas tree was twinkling in the corner!

Even the table I was guided to was decorated with
adorable tableware, handcrafted dolls, and tiny ornaments!

It’s almost too cute to handle!

There’s also a small raised seating area that feels
extra special — almost like a private booth.

Whoever scores this seat is bound to feel
like the main character of a picture book ♪

Everywhere you look, the interior is filled with
wooden toys, nutcrackers, smoking-man figurines (Räuchermänner), and ornaments
imported directly from Seiffen in the Erzgebirge region of Germany —
a town world-famous for its traditional handcrafted folk art.

Honestly, the only word that came out of my mouth was “cute” (haha).

There’s also a stylish terrace area outside,
and pets are welcome on the terrace seats!

Recommended Menu

Baumkuchen — 300 yen

An authentic, handmade Salzwedel-style baumkuchen
baked layer by layer — a signature treat at Cafe Tippel.

Takeaway baumkuchen is also displayed near the register.

Prices vary based on size, so feel free to choose your perfect piece to take home as a souvenir!

Coffee — 350 yen

Hot Cocoa — 500 yen

Caramel Latte — 600 yen

These are just a small sampling — the cafe offers a wonderful variety of drinks beyond what we tried!

On this visit, I ordered the Baumkuchen (300 yen) and a Hot Cocoa (500 yen).

Baumkuchen
A generous swirl of whipped cream — yes please!
The baumkuchen is sliced thin and served beautifully on the plate.

As for the flavor —
it has a slightly firm, satisfying texture rather than overly moist,
and the whipped cream is lightly sweetened — never cloying.

This is the kind of dessert kids will love and adults who don’t have a sweet tooth can fully enjoy too!

The other variety, baumkuchen coated in white chocolate, is also fantastic —
the rich sweetness of the white chocolate pairs beautifully with the cake.
White chocolate fans, this one is going to make your day!

Hot Cocoa
First of all — just look at how cute that mug is!

I’m a sucker for beautiful tableware, and the dishes here truly match the cafe’s storybook atmosphere. Absolutely perfect!

I scooped up some of the whipped cream and took a sip.
Beautifully bittersweet!

This is the grown-up cocoa I’ve been looking for.
Rich, deep, and just the right level of bitterness.

Cocoa always tastes more magical in winter,
and this is a flavor you simply can’t replicate at home.
Ordering this cocoa was the best decision I made all day.

So — what did you think?
Did the charm of Cafe Tippel come through?

By the way, as the proud mom that I am,
I couldn’t resist taking tons of photos of my daughter in the picture-perfect interior (haha).

The staff even told her, “You’re such a little star!” — so sweet!

Families with children are warmly welcomed here.
If you’re traveling around Aso, definitely add Cafe Tippel to your list ♪

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Frequently Asked Questions

※ Information accurate as of the time of visit. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.