#Japan #Wajima #Kurukuru Cafe #NOTOTO

New Laundry Cafe 'Kurukuru Cafe' Opens in Wajima

The Japan Offsite Construction Association is excited to announce the grand opening of the 'Kurukuru Cafe' on May 9, 2026, in Monzen Town, Wajima City. This initiative, spearheaded by the non-profit organization NOTOTO., aims to provide a vital community space following the devastation caused by the Noto Peninsula earthquake. Constructed by member company Create Rebun, the cafe will replace the town's only laundromat that went out of business after the earthquake, serving both as a laundry facility and a casual gathering point for residents.

Background of the Project

The Noto Peninsula earthquake that struck on January 1, 2024, severely impacted the community of Monzen Town, leading to the closure of the only coin laundry in the area. As residents adapted to life in temporary housing, they expressed a pressing need for more services. Many faced struggles getting their laundry dry while also seeking a local venue for social interaction. In response to these challenges, NOTOTO. and the Sōjiji Street Shopping District took action to establish a laundry cafe that would not only meet practical needs but also foster community connections.

Funding for the project was successfully secured through the crowdfunding platform 'READYFOR,' attracting support from 601 individuals, raising a total of ¥10,066,000 against a goal of ¥10 million. Additional financial assistance came from corporate sponsorships, public grants, and contributions from NOTOTO.

Involvement of the Japan Offsite Construction Association

The Japan Offsite Construction Association actively participated in the Kurukuru Cafe project as a partner. Member company Create Rebun led the construction efforts, utilizing offsite building techniques to enhance the overall project. The Association advocates for the application of offsite construction methods in temporary housing and disaster response facilities, making this development a significant case study in that field.

Facility Overview

• - Name: Kurukuru Cafe
• - Location: Wajima City, Monzen Town 1944 (next to Zen no Sato Community Center)
• - Opening Date: May 9, 2026 (Cafe will operate only Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during May, with the laundromat closed on Thursdays. Regular cafe hours to commence in June.)
• - Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Thursdays). Laundromat hours will be extended in June.
• - Main Facilities:

- Laundry: 1 large washing machine, 2 dryers, 1 washer-dryer combo
- Cafe: 4 tables (capacity for 8-10), offering beverages and light meals
- Outdoor: Grass area and shade umbrellas (expected installation in late June)

• - Design and Construction:

- Design Oversight: ENN Co., Ltd.
- Construction: Iemoto Co., Ltd., Create Rebun (Association member)

Press Conference and Opening Event Details

• - Date: May 9, 2026
• - Location: Kurukuru Cafe, Wajima City, Monzen Town 1944
• - Timeline:

- 9:00 AM - Media Check-In
- 9:30 AM - Media Preview (Photography opportunity in an empty cafe)
- 11:00 AM - Press Conference and Opening Ceremony
- 12:00 PM - Community Health Tour (Coffee tasting for local residents)

The Meaning Behind 'Kurukuru'

The name 'Kurukuru', which translates to 'spin', encapsulates the vision of the cafe. While laundry spins in the machines, it is hoped that members of the community will come together to chat, relax, and share experiences with both locals and visitors alike. The name was chosen in consultation with community members, reflecting a shared aspiration for connection and camaraderie.

Utilizing Local Resources and a 'Community-built Cafe'

In light of rising construction costs, the project employed DIY solutions for certain elements, such as the interior cafe counter and outdoor deck, engaging 43 participants from the local youth and shopping district, along with volunteers from Tokyo. Additionally, reclaimed materials from public demolition efforts, including old fittings, wooden flooring from traditional houses, and wooden trays from ryotei restaurants, were repurposed as interior design elements, contributing to a setting that honors local history.

Comments from the Japan Offsite Construction Association

Since the Noto Peninsula earthquake, the resilience demonstrated by Wajima City's residents amidst challenging living conditions has filled us with profound respect. It has been a privilege for us to collaborate with NOTOTO. on this initiative, allowing Create Rebun to apply offsite construction techniques for the realization of Kurukuru Cafe. We earnestly hope that this space will become a source of joy and conversation for the community as laundry spins away.