Australian’s Café Becomes Unexpected Tourist Attraction on Remote Japanese Island

On the remote island of Himeshima in southwestern Japan, home to just 1,700 residents, Australian John Widmer has become a local figure of interest — and not just because he’s reputedly the island’s only foreigner. He’s also the proud owner of Ozi Cafe, a colorful coffee shop he hopes will become a new destination for visitors.

Travelers arriving by ferry to the island in Oita Prefecture are met with the café’s eye-catching green and yellow facade, adorned with a cheerful hand-drawn caricature of Widmer himself, now 64 years old.

Widmer opened Ozi Cafe in May 2023, driven by a passion for quality coffee and a desire to bring a taste of home to Japan. Serving brews made from beans roasted and imported from Australia, the café quickly became popular among both locals and tourists.

“Customers were really surprised at how nice the coffee was,” Widmer said. “I give them a taste of the beans. If the bean tastes good, you’re going to get good coffee — that’s how I always choose coffee at home.”

Local businesses have seen a boost as well. Since Walk Japan Ltd., a company offering walking tours across the country, added Himeshima to its itinerary, more foreign visitors have been stopping by the café, helping put the small island on the map.

Originally from Sydney, Widmer was a competitive swimmer and ran a swim school in Australia for about 20 years. His connection to Japan — and to Oita, where his wife is from — eventually led the couple to relocate to Himeshima.

Despite initial challenges with language and cultural differences, Widmer has been warmly embraced by the local community. Beyond running his café, he also teaches swimming to elementary school students and is a member of a local volleyball club.

“We welcome new people bringing fresh ideas,” said Shiori Matsubara, a 63-year-old souvenir shop employee. “I hope the island keeps getting livelier.”