Japan has a strong coffee culture and you’ll find in every city and small town, there’s always a coffee shop. With these 7 coffee shops not to miss in Kyoto, you’ll have plenty of places to visit. Each one feels special as they range in size — some are tiny stalls tucked in alleys and others are the kind of places where you can hang out for the day.
We often spent mornings exploring the sights and then would meander over to a nearby coffee shop in the neighborhood. We found that most places would not open until 10 or 11 am, which was challenging when looking for a local coffee shop. Even Starbucks does not open until 10! We tried to plan our days so we could hop into these cafes and found they were a great way to rest our feet. Kyoto is a vibrant city and there is plenty to see — you’ll find these small cafes tucked in the most unassuming places. One thing to remember for the cafes in Kyoto is that, even though Japan may be modern, it is still primarily a cash-only destination. Be sure to bring cash for the coffee shops and tipping is not expected.
If you’re considering a trip to Japan, check out these 10 photos to inspire you and be sure to get your JR Rail Pass prior to arrival in Japan!
Check out 7 coffee shops not to miss in Kyoto:
- Weekenders Coffee
Location: Japan, 〒604-8064 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Honeyanocho, 560
- %Arabica Arashiyama Spot
Location: Japan, 〒616-8385 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, 嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町3ｰ47
- Wife & Husband
Location: Japan, 〒603-8132 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto, Kita Ward, Koyamashimouchikawaracho, ６−6
- Drip & Drop
Location: Japan, 〒604-8074 Kyoto Prefecture, 京都市中京区Nakagyo Ward, Asakuracho, 531, PIECE HOSTEL SANJO B1F
- Len Hostel & Cafe
Location: Japan, 〒600-8028 京都府京都市 下京区植松町709
- Cafe Bibliotic Hello!
Location: Japan, 〒604-0951 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, 二条柳馬場東入ル晴明町650
- Sentido
Location: Japan, 〒604-8187 京都府京都市中京区笹屋町445
8 Comments
After living in Seoul, I found the lack of chain coffee shops in Kyoto notable. It’s great to know that there are come hidden gems!
There are definitely some newer gems in Kyoto worth trying!
Have you explored to China, Shanghai before?
I would love to know what are the specialties for each of these coffee shops…
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