Introducing Arao Hon no Hiroba

Hello travelers! I’m Gachako, a writer for [Sarukuma].

Today I’m taking you to Midorigaoka, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture,
on the 2nd floor of Arao City Mall,
to a wonderful spot called “Arao Hon no Hiroba” (Arao Book Plaza).

Opened on April 1st, this complex centers around the brand-new Arao City Library
and also houses a Kinokuniya bookstore and a stylish café — all under one roof.

Right at the entrance, a delicious temptation greets you…

A café inside a library? How wonderfully cosmopolitan! 🌟

Welcome to Arao!
A huge thank you to SEATTLE’S BEST COFFEE for setting up shop here!

Since I was a bit peckish, I decided to grab lunch first.

The cakes in the display case looked irresistible too.

Muffins are 300 yen and scones 210 yen — wonderfully wallet-friendly prices.

But wait — I came for lunch, didn’t I?
The lunch menu comes with a drink for an additional 220 yen.

I went for the Creamy Egg Napolitan with fresh greens.

The silky, runny egg coats every strand — absolutely delicious, no question about it!

The interior feels so chic and refined, you almost forget you’re in Kumamoto —
it really has that getaway atmosphere.

They also sell coffee beans if you’d like to take some home.

With my belly happily full,
let’s head into the library proper!

Top Highlights of Arao Hon no Hiroba

Right at the front is the Parent & Child Reading Corner.
The shelves are at the perfect height for little ones to pick out their own books —
a space where children can really fall in love with reading.

Wow — the kids are going to absolutely love this!

Honestly, traditional libraries can feel a little tense when you’re with kids —
you’re constantly whispering “Shhh!” and feeling on edge (or is that just me?).

But with thoughtful design like this, you’ll want to come back again and again with your little ones!

The walls are themed after Arao’s famous tidal flats.

You’ll spot creatures crafted from local Shodai-yaki pottery — a beautiful nod to Kumamoto’s traditional ceramics.

And here’s the nursing room.
They even provide hot water for preparing baby formula!
And look — every volume of One Piece, lined up beautifully!

The general books area is just as stunning.
It feels like floating through outer space! (Not that I’ve actually been there!)Behind that door is the Study Room.
Let’s quietly sneak a peek inside…

Each desk has its own power outlet!
A quiet, calming space —
perfect for studying or losing yourself in a good book.

Library cards are available to anyone living in Arao, Omuta, Nagasu, or Nankan,
as well as those who commute to Arao for work or school.
(ID is required for registration.)
On the day of my visit, plenty of folks were signing up for theirs!

There’s also a local history archive featuring the latest digital technology — a great way to discover Arao’s heritage.

And of course, if you fall in love with a title, you can pick it up at the Kinokuniya bookstore section.

Arao Hon no Hiroba feels destined to become a hub
where all kinds of connections and conversations bloom.
Do come visit and experience it for yourself!

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Frequently Asked Questions

* Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before your visit.