Many may be familiar with Japan’s abundance of cafes and spots to get a quick drink, take a break to study, or even catch up on some work. You may think of the lively, sociable atmosphere full of chatter. However, there are certain types of “cafes’ all over Japan, where the atmosphere is quiet, peaceful, and dimly lit. This is called a kissaten, which translates directly to a place with coffee and tea. Cafes nowadays can become quite noisy, so those who wish to eat, drink some coffee, and work, tend to flock to these kissaten for a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Now without further ado, let’s learn more about these calm coffee spots and their culture.
A Kissaten’s Front Entrance – Photo Credit: shopiimono
What exactly is a kissaten?
Kissatens are a distinct type of “cafe,” a spot where customers can enjoy coffee and tea, and a filling meal, especially in the morning. Traditionally, kissaten were locations that would take upon the appearance of a traditional Japanese tearoom that sold coffee. However, in the Showa era and with increased popularity today, kissaten now have a more retro/modern appearance on the interior, adding items such as tea and toast to their menus. The addition of breakfast items has made many use these as a regular spot for their mornings, but they are as equally enjoyed throughout any time of the day.
Speakers and Records inside Donato Kissaten – Photo Credit: Tokyoweekender
The culture within a kissaten
Do you want to know what made kissaten so popular way back in World War Two? It was the fact that you could listen to music on a record player while enjoying coffee – something very unheard of at the time as record players were nearly unattainable. This kind of atmosphere became something unique to kissaten culture, the combination of music and coffee, or tea, if that’s more your style! Because of their long history, these coffee spots are seen as a place to relax, while also soaking in the nostalgia from eras that have come before. To fully feel the culture of any shop you visit, take note of the interior, the music, and the silence while you enjoy your drink of choice.
Kissaten Seven’s Interior – Photo Credit: corner.inc
What sets them apart from a cafe?
While cafes may have baristas, at kissaten these staff are often referred to as Masters. Additionally, unlike the former, you can feel a more personalized, comfortable experience at a kissaten rather than the rush you may experience at your local, crowded coffee spot. Masters at these coffee locations can make you their own special drink if you so request and are known to pay their customers more personalised attention than a cafe’s staff might. When looking at images of a kissaten you may notice that the interiors are quite dim, with warm lighting scattered gently across the room. This results in a more soothing and welcoming atmosphere, allowing for the perfect place to relax. These spots also specialize in bread and desserts more than their cafe counterparts, whilst also focusing solely on serving tea and coffee, compared to some cafes which also may sell alcohol.
Kissaten Recommendations in Tokyo
Kayaba Storefront – Photo Credit: old-tokyo.info
Kayaba Coffee – Yanaka
Settled inside a cozy neighborhood bustling with shopping streets, Yanaka holds the perfect kissaten for those searching for a bit of nostalgia to go with their drink of choice. Taking on the exterior of an old home, Kayaba Coffee has been around for seventy years. You won’t be bothered by the sounds of noisy coffee machines or chatter, your only task is to sit back and relax. If you happen to visit Yanaka for their shops or just a simple stroll, make sure to stop by Kayaba to experience a twist on the typical cafe.
Address: 6 Chome-1-29 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001
Opening Hours: 7 days a week, 8 AM – 6 PM
Price Range: ¥1,000–2,000 per person
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayabacoffee/
Sandwiches at Pegasus – Photo Credit: tabelog
Pegasus – Asakusa
Right near Sensoji Temple, this kissaten destination is perfect if you’re already in the popular Asakusa area! If you’ve had a good start on the busy streets and your own tourism in the area and are looking for a peaceful break before you get back on your feet, this might be the place for you. There is a good selection of sodas, the iconic melon soda, but also thick pieces of toast, and a variety of pasta dishes.
Address: 3 Chome-1-10 Nishiasakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0035
Opening Hours: 7 days a week, 11 AM – 6:30 PM
Price Range: ¥1–1,000 per person
Website: https://ckv3.onushi.com/coffee/
These two locations aren’t even the tip of Japan’s kissaten iceberg. There are so many more places out there for you to discover so where do you start? Check out our blogs on the best Kissatens to visit in Tokyo and Kyoto!
Coffee, Please!
While many may enjoy their regular cafe spot, it is always good to remember that trying new things is how we can obtain more experiences, and kissaten are a perfect example of that. These coffee spots turn the world of a typical cafe upside down, transforming the atmosphere to a subdued, calming one where you can enjoy new flavors by yourself or with a friend. With how long they have been in Japan, and also their importance in the coffee scene, a visit to at least one is a must for your next trip!
Featured Photo Credit: melscoffeetravels
