RBL CAFE: A Tranquil Book Café in Shimokitazawa for Reading and Relaxing

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RBL CAFE: A Tranquil Book Café in Shimokitazawa for Reading and Relaxing

In the lively neighborhood of Shimokitazawa, have you ever felt the urge to quietly enjoy some time alone?

RBL CAFE is the perfect place for just that.

Located within walking distance from the station, this café offers a peaceful oasis away from the city noise—ideal for those who love to read or want to focus on their work.

Its calm, cozy interior is filled with books that spark intellectual curiosity, accompanied by ambient lighting and soft background music that enhance the serene atmosphere.

This article will introduce the many charms of RBL CAFE.

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, keep reading to the end.

RBL CAFE: A Quiet Space Designed by a Quiz Writer for Reading

RBL CAFE

RBL CAFE is a book café dedicated to creating the best reading environment. It’s run by a quiz writer and surrounded by a vast collection of books in a calm and quiet space.

Business hours
1:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Regular holiday
Irregular holidays
Wi-Fi
Available
Power outlets
Available
Smoking
Completely non - smoking
Telephone number
+081-3-6805-2046
Official site
https://rblcafe.jp/
How to visit
5 - minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station on the Keio Inokashira Line or Odakyu Line
Address
5 - 32 - 12 Daizawa, Setagaya - ku, Tokyo 155 - 0032
RBL CAFE exterior

Just off the bustling Shimokitazawa South Exit shopping street, RBL CAFE is in a calm area slightly removed from the noise. A signboard outside makes it easy to find, even for first-timers.

Entrance signboard

Surrounded by 20,000 Books: A Luxurious Collection of Reference Titles

Interior view of RBL CAFE Potted plants placed throughout the space Sofa for individual use A wall of books displayed throughout the space

There are around 7,000 books on-site, and according to the official site, the total collection exceeds 20,000 volumes.

The books, gathered for quiz writing purposes, primarily focus on fields like architecture, design, and history—informative and curiosity-piquing rather than fiction.

Wall of books spanning diverse genres Full view of the book wall Close-up of the book wall

Of course, you’re also welcome to bring your own books. It’s the perfect setting to focus on your personal reading time.

Three Thoughtful Features for Quiet Focus

Rules and Atmosphere that Promote Silence

To maintain a peaceful environment for reading, please keep your voice down inside the café.

While not entirely silent, the café maintains a rule of minimizing conversations and phone use, creating a calm and relaxed atmosphere.

Tranquil moments flowing through the café

Here are the rules set within the café:

  1. To preserve a quiet space for reading, please keep noise to a minimum.
  2. Phone calls and online meetings are not allowed inside the café.
  3. Groups are welcome, but please speak softly during conversations.
  4. Laptops and tablets are allowed. However, be mindful of typing sounds to avoid disturbing others.
  5. Power outlets are located beneath the bookshelves. Feel free to ask for an extension cord if needed.

About RBL CAFE

Background Music and Lighting for a Comfortable Quiet Zone

The café plays background music that gently masks ambient sounds, helping you relax without worrying about every little noise.

Soft background music enhances the tranquil space

Have you ever felt uneasy in complete silence, thinking the slightest sound might disturb others?

At RBL CAFE, subtle background music cushions everyday sounds—like moving your bag, setting down your drink, or turning pages—so you can stay immersed in your time without discomfort.

Such thoughtful attention to detail is part of what makes this café so charming.

That said, if you’re working on a computer, be mindful of keyboard typing noise. Since quiet is highly valued here, repetitive typing may distract others.

A Layout Designed for Reading Comfort at Every Seat

Each seat is designed to be well-lit, so you can enjoy reading comfortably without worrying about lighting conditions or where you’re seated.

Seats are well-lit, making reading easy at any time

Different Seating Options on the Right and Left—Choose According to Your Needs

Single and Two-Person Seats on the Right—Perfect for Laptop Use

Single table and chair facing the aisle Single table and chair facing the wall Close-up of single seating Overview of single seating area

On the right side are six single-person table seats with power outlets. Extension cords are also available, making these ideal for laptop work.

Two-person sofa seat Right-side seating (6 single seats, 1 two-person seat)

Relaxed Sofa and Table Seating on the Left

On the left side are four low sofa seats designed for individual use, perfect for reading in a more laid-back posture.

Single-person sofa seat 1 Single-person sofa seat 2 Single-person sofa seat 3 Low sofa seats for relaxed posture

There’s also a four-person table, ideal for small groups.

Four-person table seat

Signature Spicy Hot Ginger Warms You from the Core

Hot Ginger ¥700

This spicy ginger drink, infused with chili and ginger, warms you up from the inside out.

Made with cordial syrup. No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives—100% organic.

Delicious Coffee Served in Custom Mugs

Cute custom café mug

The gentle flavor of Ethiopian coffee is another favorite. The pop-colored mugs also lift your mood.

Drink menu (Weekends & Holidays) Drink menu (Weekdays)

Usage System and Pricing: A Time-Based Café You Can Enjoy Casually

Usage system information (fee details)
  • Enjoy up to 120 minutes with just one drink order
  • After 120 minutes, a seat fee of ¥200 per 30 minutes applies
  • Pay at the end (cash, credit card, or code payment accepted)

Since you manage your own time, be careful not to lose track if you get deeply immersed.

Café counter

Easy Access: A Short Walk from Shimokitazawa Station in a Peaceful Location

Inside the café

Despite being just a few minutes on foot from Shimokitazawa Station, the café is located in a calm area away from the hustle and bustle. Even first-time visitors will find it easy to reach.

A Serene Moment in Shimokitazawa to Embrace the Quiet

Sometimes, you just want to sit quietly and read a book.

RBL CAFE is a place that gently supports that desire.

Surrounded by an abundance of books, accompanied by soft lighting and calming background music, you can truly immerse yourself in your own time.

There’s no need to act fancy or force anything—just being here is enough to feel fulfilled.

Whether you want to focus on reading, organize your thoughts, or take a small break from daily life, this is a space where silence and the presence of books help calm your mind.

If you’re ever in Shimokitazawa and crave time for yourself away from the noise, consider stopping by.

Café interior view