S12 · E15

Taking a Break at a Coffee Bean Stand in Kyoto

The setting is a stand-style specialty coffee bean shop in the heart of Kyoto. Kyoto, known for its traditional Japanese culture, actually has the highest coffee consumption in Japan, and many people come here seeking beans roasted on-site. A university professor who says coffee is indispensable as a study aid. A man who finds roasting green beans himself helps him stay calm. The shop also sells coffee, and for some, this one cup is a lifeline in their busy daily lives. In these times, how are people taking a break? For three days, we listened to their stories.