Kōnosuke Minoda, known as Kō, presides over the kitchen of the Hananoyu Inn as its seasoned cook. His weathered features and short, silver-streaked hair mirror decades of unwavering service to the establishment. Renowned for a warmth that radiates through every interaction, he takes immense pride in crafting nourishing meals and cherishes the inn like a second home. When Oriko Seki declares her intent to inherit the role of innkeeper, Kō’s face lights with unbridled enthusiasm, his eyes glistening with joyful tears as he wholeheartedly endorses her decision.

He partners with Etsuko Tajima to mentor Oriko through her training, meeting each obstacle with steady encouragement. His gentle guidance shines brightest when soothing her doubts, offering reassuring words that steady her resolve. A steadfast pillar within Hananoyu’s community, Kō embodies the inn’s ethos of heartfelt service and unity, his every action weaving tradition into daily life and cementing his legacy as its nurturing cornerstone.