Top 5 MATCHA Cafes in Kyoto
Hunt for the best Green Tea desserts in Kyoto!
Despite the fact that Kyoto is the touristic capital of Japan, the city is also known as the place where finest matcha comes from. Kyoto’s specialty “Uji matcha” is considered as the highest quality of Japanese green tea. So if you are a matcha lover, you better try delicious sweets at one of the most sophisticated Uji matcha cafes in Kyoto. Here is a list of 5 finest matcha cafes selected by me!
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1. Charyo Tsujiri (茶寮 都路里)
Established in 1978, Charyo Tsujiri is one of long-running traditional tea houses in Kyoto. As well as their significant finely ground powder matcha drink, there are a variety of Uji matcha dessert. Try their mega matcha parfait!!
Address: 573–3 Giomachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama-ward, Kyoto
Nearest Station: 2 minutes walk from Gionshijo station (Keihan line)
Hours: 10:30 to 19:00 (20:00 on weekends & holidays)
2. Nakamura Tokichi (中村藤吉)
The tea house “Nakamura Tokichi” was originally founded in 1854 during Ansei period. The main branch of the tea house is located in the important cultural landscapes area in Kyoto. Enjoy the authentic matcha drink and dessert in the most historical cafe in Kyoto.
Address: 10 Uji ichiban, Uji-city, Kyoto
Nearest Station: 2 minutes walk from Uji station (Kaihan Uji line/JR Nara line)
Hours: 10:00 to 17:30
3. Jouvencelle (ジュヴァンセル)
Jouvencelle is a confectionery store in Kyoto. Their collection of creative Japanese and Western style confections are very impressive. They have recently won fame with the dish called “Matcha Fondue”. Enjoy pieces of seasonal fruits and home made sweets by dipping into rich match sauce.
Address: 482 Kiyoicho, Yasakatorimae minamihairu, Higashiyama-ward, Kyoto
Nearest Station: 8 minutes walk from Gionshijo station (Keihan line)
Hours: 10:00 to 18:00
4. Ito Kyuemon (伊藤久右衛門)
Another long-established traditional tea house, founded in Edo period. Green tea from Ito Kyuemon is one of the most popular souvenirs from Kyoto but you can taste their yummy sweets ONLY in the main branch in Kyoto. Their Best Selling dessert is Matcha par fait.
Address: Aramaki-19–3 Todo, Uji-city, Kyoto
Nearest Station: 6 minutes walk from Uji station (Keihan Uji line/JR Nara line)
Hours: 10:00 to 18:00
5. Umezono Gafe & Gallery (うめぞの Cafe & Gallery)
Pancakes has become a new nation’s favourites sweets for a last couple of years. Of course, Kyoto can make it to their very own way! Try their yummy “matcha” pancakes served with brown sugar butter, red bean paste and brown sugar syrup.
Address: 180 Fudocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto
Nearest Station: 7 minutes walk from Shijo Karasuma station(Hankyu Kyoto line)
Hours: 11:30 to 19:00
Love matcha? If you want to learn how to brew your own cup of green tea in accordance with traditional Japanese principles, we recommend checking out a tea ceremony experience during your time in Kyoto. With the city being the birthplace of the tea ceremony, it’s the perfect place to enjoy this ancient and uniquely Japanese ritual.
▶ Find the best tea ceremonies in Kyoto!
For more information about trendy places to visit in Kyoto, here are some more articles for you to check out!
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"The world is my oyster." As a dedicated globetrotter and hammock enthusiast, I’ve spent years chasing new experiences, collecting stories, and discovering the world’s most incredible destinations. Born and raised in Japan, I’ve always had a deep connection to my roots, but my love for adventure has led me to spend over a decade exploring countries across the globe—from culture-rich cities to remote hideaways.
Travel isn't just a hobby for me; it's a lifestyle. I'm constantly searching for new ways to fuel my wanderlust. Over the years, I’ve developed a wealth of knowledge and a treasure trove of tips that make traveling more enjoyable, practical, and meaningful.
Through my experiences, I've come to appreciate not only the beauty of travel but also the importance of understanding diverse cultures, embracing the unfamiliar, and stepping out of my comfort zone. My travels have shaped who I am today, and I’m excited to share those lessons with others.
With Japan Web Magazine, I aim to offer practical advice, insider tips, and firsthand stories that help travelers navigate their journeys to Japan or setting off on a global adventure. From hidden gems in Japan to travel hacks that make any trip smoother, I hope my insights inspire you to embark on your own adventures and make the most of every moment. Let’s explore the world together!
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