The Story of the Arakawa Family
After completing his culinary training and working in Japanese gastronomy for several years, Takusaburo Arakawa came to Cologne in 1978 with a mission: to share the beauty of Japanese cuisine with people in Germany. It was in Cologne that he met Hedwig, who quickly became a fan of his cooking — and soon after, his partner in life.
They married in 1983, and Hedi, a born-and-bred local from Cologne, followed her husband to Japan. But after three years, homesickness brought the couple back to Germany — and back to Cologne, where they made their dream come true: opening their very own Japanese restaurant.
On October 5th, 1988, the time had come. Cologne’s very first sushi restaurant, located just steps from the Cologne Cathedral, opened its doors. It marked the beginning of a long and successful journey.
For nearly 30 years, Kintaro has welcomed guests to enjoy traditional Japanese dishes in a bright, modern, and timeless setting. The walls are adorned with works by renowned German and Japanese artists — many of them loyal guests and close friends of the restaurant. At the sushi bar, guests can watch the master at work, crafting each piece with care and precision.
The name Kintaro — which means “Golden Boy” in Japanese — has become known far beyond Cologne, with features in numerous culinary magazines and guides.
Over the years, many first-time visitors became regulars, and many regulars became cherished friends. Today, even the next generation continues to return to Kintaro — a place that has become part of their family tradition.
Throughout it all, Takusaburo and Hedwig Arakawa have stayed true to their highest priority: offering outstanding quality and heartfelt hospitality, day in and day out. At the center of the Arakawa family’s life — and heart — is and always will be their Kintaro.
