When we talk about Kyoto, what do you immediately think of? The history? The traditional temples and shrines? While these historic temples and streets steal the spotlight, there’s another cultural treasure waiting to be discovered, and they are kissaten (喫茶店). In this guide, I’ll introduce you to five of the best kissaten in Kyoto, where craftsmanship and atmosphere blend seamlessly into an unforgettable experience. But first, let’s take a look at what exactly a kissaten is.
A Kyoto kissaten, Salon de the Francois – Photo Credit: Salon de the Francois
What is a Kissaten?
The word kissaten (喫茶店) literally means “tea-drinking shop,” but these establishments are primarily known for their coffee. Kissaten originated in the early 20th century, inspired by European-style cafés and infused with a uniquely Japanese aesthetic. They flourished in the Showa era (1926–1989), becoming beloved gathering spots for students, salarymen, and intellectuals. Unlike modern coffee chains, kissaten emphasizes atmosphere, hospitality, and slow living.
Interior of Smart Coffee, a Kyoto Kissaten – Photo Credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
What sets Kissaten apart is its devotion to craftsmanship and nostalgia. Many still serve hand-dripped coffee, using traditional flannel drip or siphon brewing methods, producing a rich, smooth flavor that machine-made coffee often lacks. The ambiance is equally important because stepping into a kissaten feels like entering a time capsule, with vintage wooden furniture, dim lighting, and soft jazz or classical music playing in the background. The food menu is simple yet comforting, featuring classics like egg sandwiches, Napolitan spaghetti, custard pudding, Japanese curry rice, and so on. These are nostalgic flavors that evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity for many Japanese people. Unlike bustling coffee chains, many kissaten are family-run, where the owner, who is called the “master” (マスター), personally serves customers, creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere.
Now that you know what it is, let’s dive into the five best kissaten in Kyoto that you won’t want to miss.
Coffee served at Salon de the Francois – Photo Credit: Salon de the Francois
Salon de the Francois
Established in September 1934, Salon de the Francois is more than just a coffee shop, it is a living piece of history. Founded in 1934, Salon de the Francois is a Kyoto landmark that has preserved the artistic and intellectual spirit of the Showa era. During wartime, when freedom of speech was restricted, this kissaten served as a refuge for writers, artists, and thinkers, offering a space to discuss peace, literature, and art. Its luxurious, cruise ship-inspired interior, with classical music and European paintings, remains unchanged, allowing visitors to experience its original charm. It was recognized in 2003 as Japan’s first National Registered Tangible Cultural Property kissaten, standing as a testament to Kyoto’s rich Kissaten culture.
Exterior of Salon de the Francois – Photo Credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
Salon de the Francois Kissaten offers hand-dripped coffee, café au lait, brandy coffee made with Hennessy, and more. Its menu also features classic dolce like custard pudding, cakes, and even organic yuzu juice from Kochi.
Address: 600-8019 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Sendocho, 184
Opening Hours: Everyday from 10 AM to 10 PM
Official Website: https://francois1934.com/
Egg ham sandwiches served at Tyrol – Photo Credit: Tyrol
Tyrol
Since its opening in 1968, Tyrol Kissaten (チロル) has remained a beloved local kissaten, offering a retro, no-frills charm. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Kissaten in Japan by Tabelog (Japan’s Yelp for food) in 2021 and 2022, it continues to attract both regulars and newcomers looking for an authentic, old-school café experience.
Unlike refined, European-style coffeehouses, Tyrol is known for its hearty, home-style meals that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Their signature “yaki-meshi” (fried rice) and Italian-style spaghetti are customer favorites, alongside classics like curry rice topped with a fried egg, ham and egg toast, and katsu curry. Despite its rich menu, Tyrol keeps its prices affordable, staying true to its Showa-era roots. Pair any meal with a simple yet satisfying blended coffee for just 400 yen, and you’ll understand why this spot has stood the test of time. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or soaking in the retro atmosphere, Tyrol delivers a taste of Kyoto’s everyday culture.
Address: 539-3 Monzencho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8306
Opening Hours: Everyday except Sunday from 8 AM to 4 PM
Official Website: https://tyrol.favy.jp/
Interior of Smart Coffee – Photo Credit: Smart Coffee
Smart Coffee
Established in 1932, Smart Coffee (スマート珈琲店) has been serving its signature hand-roasted coffee for nearly a century. With a commitment to preserving its original roasting techniques, this kissaten takes pride in offering a coffee experience that allows time to slow down, creating a space where customers can relax and unwind.
Smart Coffee is best known for its smooth, well-balanced original blend, available hot or iced, alongside rich Viennese coffee and café au lait. Its food menu is equally classic, featuring fluffy hotcakes, French toast, egg sandwiches, and even parfaits, all perfectly complementing their coffee. For those who want to bring a piece of the experience home, Smart Coffee also sells its house-roasted coffee beans and original tableware through its online store. A visit to Smart Coffee is definitely a journey into Kyoto’s refined and enduring kissaten tradition.
Address: 537 Tenshojimaecho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8081
Opening Hours: Everyday from 8 AM to 6:30 PM
Official Website: https://www.smartcoffee.jp/
Official Online Store: https://shop.smartcoffee.jp/
Fruit sandwiches are served at Ichikawaya Coffee – Photo Credit: Ichikawaya Facebook
Ichikawaya Coffee
Tucked between Kiyomizu Temple and Sanjūsangendō, Ichikawaya Coffee (市川屋珈琲) is housed in a 200-year-old machiya that once served as the owner’s grandfather’s pottery workshop. This kissaten was carefully renovated and opened in 2015, preserving the warmth of Kyoto’s traditional architecture while offering a refined coffee experience.
House blend coffee at Ichikawaya Coffee – Photo Credit: Ichikawaya Coffee
Ichikawaya Coffee is known for its in-house roasting, with two roasters on-site ensuring that beans are always fresh and meticulously brewed using Nel drip for a smooth, rich flavor. What truly sets this café apart is its famous seasonal fruit sandwiches, featuring slices of citrus, golden melon, strawberries, bananas, pears, watermelon, kiwi, pineapple, and mango, depending on the time of year. The ever-changing lineup makes each visit a new and exciting experience, pairing perfectly with their expertly brewed coffee. With its elegant wooden beams, peaceful tsuboniwa (courtyard garden), and menu that evolves with the seasons, Ichikawaya Coffee offers a peaceful Kyoto kissaten experience where tradition meets innovation in the most delightful way.
Address: 605-0875 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Kaneicho, 396-2
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (except Tuesday and Wednesday)
Official Website: https://ichikawaya.thebase.in/
Interior of Gion Ishi – Photo Credit: Gion Ishi Instagram
Gion Ishi
Located in the heart of Gion, Gion Ishi (ぎおん石・祇園店) is more than just a kissaten, it’s a unique fusion of Kyoto’s kissaten culture and a gemstone gallery. The first floor of the shop showcases an exquisite collection of minerals, fossils, modern art pieces, and accessories, featuring rare gemstones from Japan and around the world. The second floor houses an elegant kissaten, where visitors can unwind in a serene and luxurious atmosphere while enjoying Kyoto’s finest sweets and coffee.
Matcha dessert served at Gion Ishi – Photo Credit: Gion Ishi
Gion Ishi is known for its matcha-infused desserts, such as the Uji matcha cheesecake and seasonal matcha parfait. Their signature cake sets, featuring Mont Blanc, chocolate cake, and premium cheesecake, are paired with house-blend coffee for a perfectly balanced experience. For a more traditional touch, their homemade matcha pudding and coffee jelly offer a delightful taste of Japanese confectionery. It also offers a selection of specialty drinks, including handmade matcha lattes, fruit sodas, and premium Japanese tea, making it an ideal spot for both tea and coffee lovers.
Address: 605-0074 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Gionmachi Minamigawa, 555, 2nd Floor
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM to 7 PM except Wednesday and every other Thursday
Official Website: https://www.gionishi.com/gion/
A Japanese Kissaten – Photo Credit: Mylène Larnaud
Stepping into a kissaten is like stepping back in time, a pause from the fast-paced world outside. In Kyoto, where tradition and modernity coexist, these coffee shops serve as peaceful rest stops, perfect for quiet contemplation or deep conversations. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply someone who enjoys a cozy atmosphere, Kyoto’s kissaten will leave you with more than just a good cup of coffee. They offer an experience and the art of slowing down. Make sure to visit one while in Japan!
Feature photo credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
