EXQUISITE JAPANESE CAFE, HOUSES & GARDEN IN A DATES FARM (Kolak in Chiang Mai, Thailand)

Chiang Mai, we've always heard about this place but we never had the chance to come here. We've always wondered, what's so special about Chiang Mai? Phuket, Koh Lipe & Bangkok are all well known places in Thailand. You can easily get information about those places but what about Chiang Mai? We are so lucky as our best friend Mr. Majeed and his family are willing to take us around Chiang Mai. 

When we arrived at Chiang Mai we can see how clean and unique the city was. Historical buildings are well preserved amongst the rapid growth of modern building. The city was built in between rivers. During special festival, people all around the world will gather around the rivers to experience lights / color festival. 

Not many tourist know about this but amazing places in Chiang Mai cannot be experience in the city alone, but we have to drive a few hours away from the city to get to the mountains. On our way to the mountains, we stop by at Kolak to rest and get some coffees. 

 

It was such an amazing place. So gorgeous. It's like entering another country. Having the concept of Japanese Architecture merging with Arab Dates Farm + Japanese Garden as the background; creating this stunning environment. 
 

This is the main building and the main entrance to the property. Such exquisite design. 

 

We can clearly see the Japanese Architecture elements through out the buildings. The owners love visiting Japan so much until they decided to build their own Japanese village back at their home town; which is in Chiang Mai. 

 

At the main building they are selling souvenirs, teas, sweets, dried fruits, etc. What we love most is the details and craftsmanship of the building. Oh my, just imagine how hard it was to build it.

 

Once you enter, you can see beautiful Japanese Garden mixed with Arab Dates Garden. Beautiful pond that runs in between the Japanese Cafe and the main building. 

You can see beautiful Japanese pond concept once entering the garden. 

The wooden wall perfectly hide the entrance to the toilets. It's our first time seeing such gorgeous toilet entrance. 

This is the Japanese Cafe. Can you imagine? In the middle of nowhere there is a beautiful International Cafe such as this? The coffee and ice chocolate was out of this world. Oh! I really miss those ice chocolates. 

The Baristas were very good at making them. We can enjoy our drinks any where around the gardens. Feels like a grand picnic. Haha. Nevertheless, the price of the coffees and ice chocolate was extremely cheap compared to Starbucks. 

 

I love having my ice chocolate next to the pond while relaxing. Enjoy the sound of nature. 

There are dragonflies and butterflies flying around. Making the place more lively.

If you walk further up, you can see red colored Japanese gates going to the Dates Farm.

There was a Wakaf / cottage next to the gates. If you climb up the Wakaf, you can see the overall view of the place. 

It was such an amazing view. We can see the cafe, the main building, pond, etc from up here. 

 

After coming up here, we don't feel like going down. 

The mountains are also visible. Picturesque view.

There was a small stream up here that flowing towards the pond. 

It's very calm here. Just enjoying nature and architecture.

Next to the Wakaf there was a new Japanese building which we believe will be a Chalet / Homestay in the future. Wow, must be nice staying here. 

Next to the Cafe there are a few seating provided for you to enjoy your coffee. 

One of the Japanese element that we love. 

Seeing the Monks walking around really does feels like we are in Japan. Hey, the Monks also enjoying this place. They did take many pictures just like we do. Hehehe.

It's sad to leave Kolak. Such amazing experience that we'll never forget. Love this place so much. We highly recommend you to come here if you ever have the chance to travel to Chiang Mai. Remember, the most fun part of Chiang Mai is not just located at the main city, but far beyond that. 

Love;

Le BARISHA