On May 31, 2023, we visited a cafe called "DUAL BOOKs" which is located next to an open bookstore. The cafe was started by a couple who left their consulting jobs to pursue their dream. Located on a small hill on the way up to "Snow Cruise Oons" from Route 5 in Haruka-cho, Otaru City, the cafe has a parking space for about 3-4 cars in front of the store. As we entered the store through the insect screen door, we were greeted by a cozy atmosphere of a handmade wooden building with carefully selected second-hand books neatly displayed. There are about five counter seats near the window facing the sea, where you can enjoy the scenic view of Hokkaido. Additionally, there is a terrace seat outside where you can enjoy your drink while reading a book. We browsed through a couple of books that caught our eye, but since we are not good at introducing them, we recommend checking their Instagram for more information. The menu includes dark roast, medium roast, HOT/ICE coffee, cafe au lait, herbal tea, apple juice, canned beer, and draft beer (Otaru Beer Pilsner), non-alcoholic beer, and more. They also sell baked goods and vegetables around the register area. We ordered a medium roast "Peace coffee @350" which uses a blend of coffee beans from Teine Maeda "Kokko." On that day, the husband was absent, and the wife brewed the coffee using hand drip method and brought it to our table. The coffee had a slightly lower water temperature, mild bitterness, and weak acidity, making it easy to drink. However, increasing the amount of beans may bring out more flavor closer to personal preference. We enjoyed a luxurious time as the only customers, feeling refreshed like a detox. Although we wanted to stay longer, we had unfinished work, so we had to leave after about 40 minutes. It's a place where we would like to spend a leisurely time enjoying a beer when we have more time. Thank you for the meal. *If you live nearby, it might be nice to walk there.

On the 2nd of this month, a dear person passed away. Today, the 30th, would have been her 23rd birthday. We should have celebrated together... What a shame. She loved the sea, reading, and coffee. In her place, I read a book while gazing at the sea in the evening. I enjoyed deep-roasted coffee and cranberry gateau chocolat. It was a relaxing time with a pleasant breeze. I spent the time wishing I could see her again, even if she were a ghost.