Kyoto city is a popular destination to add to any Japan travel itinerary. The old-world charm and historical architecture of the city brings in fans from around the world.
But Kyoto city isn’t all traditions and history!
Kyoto has some of the best cafes and coffee shops in Japan, ranging from ultra modern and sylish to traditional and laid-back.
We’ve rounded up our lists of the best Kyoto cafes, picked by locals. Whether you’re looking for a good cup of matcha tea or aromatic coffee, take our recommendation during your Kyoto travels!
Kyoto city isn’t all traditional teahouses and beautiful shrines and temples. The ancient capital of Japan has a thriving cafe scene, and you’ll be surprised to find some of the trendiest cafes in Japan hidden away. Read on to find out the best Kyoto cafes to visit depending on your interest!
Kyoto city is the uncontentested matcha capital of Japan, and you can find anything from delicious drinks to beautiful Japanese desserts to enjoy while sightseeing in the city. Enjoyed by many for over 1,200 years, there is a reason there are so many matcha flavored snacks and sweets in Japan! If you’re interested in trying out matcha for the first time, or are an avid matcha fan looking to try Kyoto matcha, look no further then our top picks!
For more on matcha sweets & desserts: 5 Must Visit Cafes for Matcha Lovers in Kyoto City, Japan
Are you a coffee or tea lover looking to combine your love for a good cuppa with sightseeing and taking in the views of Kyoto city? We’ve found the most unique Kyoto cafes nestled within Kyoto’s historical neighborhoods, perfect to relax during your Japan travels!
For more on the best Kyoto cafes for coffee & tea: Top 7 Best Kyoto Cafes for Coffee & Tea Lovers
When you think of Japanese sweets and desserts, you probably imagine photogenic desserts that are extremely Instagrammable. We’ve got the perfect list of Kyoto cafes to satisfy both your sweet tooth and Instagram feed. Stop by these Instrgrammable Kyoto cafes to snap a pick that’ll leave all your friends and family jealous
For more on Instagrammable cafes in Kyoto: What to Eat in Kyoto: Kyoto Desserts & Japanese Sweets
When planning your Kyoto vacation, you’ll usually find recommendations on places to visit grouped up by area. As there are so many amazing sightseeing spots and places to visit, it’s often easier to plan your outings centered around the various areas and neighborhoods of Kyoto. To ease your planning, we’ve organized our recommended Kyoto cafes up by what area of Kyoto city you’ll find them in.
When mentioning some of the best places for beautiful views of cherry blossoms in the spring and majetic fall leaves in the autumn, Arashiyama is at the top of our list. Home to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Togetsu-kyo Bridge, and the Tenryū-ji Temple (a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 1339), this area, onle a 15 minute train ride from the main JY Kyoto Station, is a must during your Japan vacation. While exploring, be sure to visit one of our picks of the best Kyoto cafes and Kyoto restaurants in the Arashiyama area when you need to take a break or grab a bite to eat.
For more information: Top Kyoto Restaurants and Kyoto Cafes in the Arashiyama Area
For more information: Top 5 Restaurants near Nijo Castle in Kyoto – Recommended By Locals
Kyoto is known for being the mecca of tradition and history in Japan, but that’s not to say that’s all there is to it! Kawaramachi and Gojo area in central Kyoto city is one of the most popular places to enjoy shopping, both modern and traditional, as well as sightseeing. From trendy department stores to places like the Kyoto Samurai Ninja Museum and the Kyoto International Manga Museum, there’s plenty to see and do in Kawaramachi and Gojo! Between the shopping and sightseeing, be sure to stop by one of our top choices for Kyoto cafes in the area. From local favorites to cafes you’ll want to snap picks of for your Instagram, you’re sure to find the perfect cafe to take a break on our list.
For more information: Things to do in Kyoto: Top Kyoto Cafes in Kawaramachi & Gojo Areas
The Kiyomizu-dera, or Kiyomizu Temple, is one of the most popular temples in Kyoto city, if not in all of Japan. Considered one of the best things to do in Kyoto and a must for any Kyoto vacation, the Higashiyama area, where it is located, has numerous places to sightsee, enjoy Kyoto foods, and take in the culture of the city. While visiting one of the many temples in the area or strolling along the picturesque Ninenzaka Street, take a break at one of our recommend Kyoto cafes to enjoy some delicious Japanese sweets and drinks!
For more information: Top Kyoto Cafes and Japanese Sweets in the Kiyomizu-dera Temple Area
See our recommended accommodations in Kyoto: MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN KYOTO
