This place, Hoshino Resorts Banta Cafe (hereinafter, "Banta Cafe"), offers a spectacular view. If I were a nobleman of the Heian period, I would undoubtedly compose a poem about it. Perhaps an ukiyo-e artist from the Edo period might find it worthy of depiction.

The location is simply incredible. Oh, you can tell from the photos, can't you? (laughs)

And it's not panda, it's Banta. With the dots on the 'ha'. It's voiced. In Okinawan, 'banta' means 'cliff.' True to its name, the cafe is designed along a cove surrounded by large rocks. Below, a natural coastline where coral thrives unfolds. Such a setting is rare, even in Okinawa.

Banta Cafe is located on the west coast of Yomitan Village, in the central-western part of Okinawa, about an hour's drive from Naha Airport. It's a cafe adjacent to Hoshino Resorts' luxury brand, HOSHINOYA Okinawa, but rest assured, it's open to non-staying guests as well.

Gazing at the sea from the cliff's edge, with nothing obstructing the view, offers an "overwhelming sense of freedom" that might even make you burst out laughing. And this location faces west, meaning the sunsets over the ocean are nothing short of dramatic! Ahh. Incidentally, last orders are at sunset. As expected from Hoshino Resorts, they truly understand. (laughs)

Now, let me reintroduce this magnificent seaside cafe.

First, the grounds cover 1600 square meters. That's likely far beyond what most people imagine a cafe to be. The self-service menu includes items like pizza toast with a goya accent, and freshly made pork tamago onigiri, packed with Okinawan flavors. The signature "Bukubuku Jelly Soda," with its fluffy foam and colorful jelly spheres floating in the soda, is the epitome of an Instagrammable drink. Its cuteness compels you to capture it in a photo.

So, when you're ready to order, the delightful dilemma begins: choosing your seat! (laughs) Banta Cafe's grounds are divided into four unique areas. Even on the day we visited, guests were wandering around with their drinks. I get it, I totally get it. With this setting, deciding where to settle down is a real challenge, isn't it?

The first area guests typically access is the "Grand Roof Deck." This semi-open-air space juts out over the sea, offering a sense of floating, much like being on a ship's deck. This is where you place your food and drink orders.

True to its name, the indoor "Lounge for Lounging" features flat sofas perfect for lounging while gazing at the sea. While you could lounge here as long as time permits, there are also spacious desks facing the ocean, ideal for working on your laptop. Of course, power outlets and Wi-Fi are fully equipped. An office like this would surely boost productivity (…if you can resist the temptation of a beer).

On the way down from the cliff to the beach, five gazebos are arranged. These form the "Seaside Terrace." The gazebos have tatami-style flooring. Stretching out your legs and surrendering to the scent of the sea and the sound of the waves should naturally help you relax. A little further in, you'll find the "Rocky Terrace," surrounded by large rocks and lush vegetation, offering a sense of privacy. It's like a luxurious secret base. Spending some leisurely time swaying in a rocking chair here would be wonderful.

…You understand the dilemma, don't you? Please, find your own special spot.

Oh, and I almost forgot. In addition to the cafe, there's also the grill restaurant, Hoshino Resorts All-GRILL, where you can enjoy hamburgers for lunch, and steaks flavored with island herbs or fresh seafood in the evening. To perfect their hamburger, the staff reportedly ate their way through popular Okinawan hamburgers before opening, conducting extensive research until they created "the one!" One staff member confidently stated, "It's our absolute masterpiece," prompting me to immediately try the thick, juicy patty hamburger.

Fun events are also held here, such as the 'Yachimun Market' featuring weekly pop-up stalls from workshops in Yomitan Village, and workshops where you can experience Okinawa's traditional crafts. In winter, they apparently held 'Illumi Banta: Seaside Night Lights,' illuminating the night sea. There's an exciting sense of discovering new culture here.

Until May 15, 2022 (Sunday), the "Seaside Art Festival" is being held, gathering artists who are leading the next generation of Okinawan culture along the serene spring seaside. You can experience the charm of their works through live painting and workshops, and a small gallery will also be set up where you can observe the creation process and purchase artworks.

Banta Cafe offers a chance to encounter a new Okinawan landscape you've never seen before. Please enjoy a wonderful time here, rediscovering your inner child.