[Kyoto] 5 specialty coffee shops!

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• Table of Contents
• 1. The surprising connection between Kyoto and coffee culture
• 5 Select Coffee Shops in Kyoto
• Take a trip to Kyoto to enjoy coffee!

1. The surprising connection between Kyoto and coffee culture

Kyoto has been the cultural center of Japan for over a thousand years. While treasuring tradition, the city has also been progressive and has a climate that is flexible in accepting new things. As a result, foreign cultures such as coffee have developed while fusing with Kyoto's unique aesthetic sense. Kyoto is also home to many universities, and the fusion of young sensibilities and tradition has fostered a unique and sophisticated cafe culture.

It may be surprising, but Kyoto residents are known to eat a lot of bread for breakfast. In fact, according to statistics from 2025, Kyoto City's monthly spending on bread is the third highest in the country (3,683 yen), about 1.25 times the national average.

The frequency of purchases is also higher than the national average, ranking 14th (15.32 times/month), demonstrating that bread culture is firmly rooted in the area.

Furthermore, Kyoto has had a long history of "artisan culture." It is a city where an aesthetic sense that pays attention to detail is alive and well in everyday life, whether it be in the tea ceremony, Japanese sweets, dyeing, or pottery. It is precisely because of this that a deep commitment to ingredients, techniques, and space naturally resides in even a single cup of coffee. With this background, Kyoto has many cafes that serve coffee that pairs well with bread, and has a rich morning culture. Kyoto's unique food culture, where Japanese and Western influences are exquisitely blended, is also reflected in the individuality of its coffee shops.

5 Select Coffee Shops in Kyoto

This time, we will introduce you to some "specialty coffee shops" we came across in the charming city of Kyoto. Enjoying a carefully brewed cup of coffee while surrounded by the atmosphere of the ancient capital is truly blissful. These are all shops you can stop by in between sightseeing, so be sure to use them as a reference for your trip.

① Kurasu Kyoto Stand (Near Kyoto Station)

A stylish coffee stand within walking distance of Kyoto Station. Focusing on single-origin home-roasted coffee, you can enjoy a cup of coffee that brings out the best in the beans. The interior of the shop has a minimalist and relaxed atmosphere. Take-out is also available, making it the perfect place to start or end your trip.  https://kurasu.kyoto/pages/about-kurasu

📝Recommended points:

A Kyoto-based brand that has expanded overseas, this hand-dripped coffee showcases the barista's skill, and the beans are also available for purchase, making it a great souvenir.

② WEEKENDERS COFFEE TOMINOKOJI (Karasuma Oike)

A hideaway café renovated from a Kyoto townhouse. This shop, tucked away in an alley, feels like a secret base. They are particular about specialty coffee, and make no compromises from bean selection to brewing. Why not take your time and be enveloped in the aroma of coffee in a quiet space? https://www.weekenderscoffee.com/

📝Recommended points:

A fusion of the atmosphere of a Kyoto townhouse and a modern space, with a wide variety of beans to choose from to suit your taste, a hidden gem that's more popular with locals than tourists.

③%ARABICA Kyoto (Higashiyama)

A world-famous coffee brand located near Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine. The sophisticatedly designed store and espresso drinks with beautiful latte art are popular. Although it is located in the heart of a tourist area, the quality is authentic. It is also very popular with foreign tourists. https://goodcoffee.me/coffeeshop/arabica/

📝Recommended points:

A Kyoto-based brand with a global presence, with thorough management from roasting the beans to brewing the coffee, and beautiful latte art that's perfect for Instagram

④ Goodman Roaster Kyoto (Kawaramachi)

A roaster café run by a dedicated roaster. They are particular about the origin of the beans and the degree of roasting, and are known for their fragrant, deep flavor. The interior of the shop is wood-themed and has a calm atmosphere. It is a famous shop that coffee lovers will love, and is known only to those in the know. https://goodman-company.com/

📝Recommended points:

A roaster is always on-site and you can ask questions about beans. The lineup is centered around specialty coffees, and it's a quiet, grown-up space.

⑤ Roastery DAUGHTER & Gallery SON (Nanajo)

A unique space where art and coffee come together. This roaster cafe with gallery allows you to enjoy both your senses and your taste buds. All the beans are roasted in-house, and there are seasonal limited blends. You can spend a moment that stimulates your senses. https://www.wifeandhusband.jp/wife-husband-1

📝Recommended points:

A unique cafe with an art gallery, seasonal blends and a quiet location in the Shichijo area.

Take a trip to Kyoto to enjoy coffee!

There are still many attractive coffee shops in Kyoto. Why not drop by one during your trip and relax with a cup of coffee? Our Gold-Guide, who knows Kyoto inside and out, will guide you to hidden spots. Whether it's your first time in Kyoto or you've been there many times before, you can enjoy your trip from a different angle starting with coffee.

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