
Waketokuyama
Location: Vancouver, Canada
Program: Restaurant
Year: 2023
Team: John Jiang
Waketokuyama Vancouver represents the first international location of the acclaimed Tokyo-based kaiseki restaurant. The design creates an intimate dining environment that honors traditional Japanese aesthetics while embracing the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
The restaurant's interior is characterized by a careful selection of natural materials, including locally sourced timber and stone, complemented by handcrafted Japanese elements. Private dining rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the surrounding landscape, while maintaining the sense of privacy essential to the kaiseki dining experience.
The space is organized around a central open kitchen, allowing diners to observe the meticulous preparation of seasonal dishes. Custom lighting fixtures and furniture pieces were designed specifically for the project, creating a harmonious blend of contemporary design and traditional Japanese craftsmanship.





