Best Kissaten In Kyoto
- Kyoto
- 29 Aug, 2025
Kissaten are retro cafes — rather like Japanese-style European coffee houses — and they’re an interesting alternative to more contemporary indie cafes. Here are some of our favourite kissaten in Kyoto.
[Smart Coffee in Kyoto — image © Florentyna Leow]
Modern Kyoto has no shortage of great independent cafes, but we have an equal fondness for more retro kissaten. Think of kissaten as retro cafes. They’re distinct from cafes in that they are rather like a Japanese take on European-style coffee houses, with more than a hint of belle époque to their atmospheres. And, kissaten-style coffee is distinctly inky and dark, verging on burnt. You won’t find cafe lattes here, that’s for sure!
In a city that prizes tradition and preserving old establishments, there are many kissaten across the city. Most have been operating for decades, if not a century or more. Some even date back prior to World War II. The few we’ve listed here only just begins to scratch the surface of kissaten culture in Kyoto! But, they’re a great introduction to retro coffee spots in the city.
- Smart Coffee (Downtown Kyoto)
Retro kissaten Smart Coffee in Teramachi Shopping Arcade not only serves fantastic coffee, their egg sandwiches are also killer. Sparing some time for breakfast or tea here is a no-brainer! - Inoda Coffee (Downtown
Kyoto)
There are several branches of the venerable Inoda Coffee chain around Kyoto, but we like the old school atmosphere at their downtown “honten” (main branch). - Otafuku (Downtown Kyoto)
For a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Kyoto, drop by Otafuku in Kawaramachi. Though it’s right in the heart of the city, you’ll be whisked away to another world in this retro kissaten.
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Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For a quick overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide.
- Check if a visa is required for Japan
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com.
- Buy Japan Rail Tickets and Shinkansen Tickets Online.
- For tips on where to stay, see Where To Stay In Kyoto.
- See my Packing List For Japan.
- Purchase an eSim or SIM card for Japan.
- Compare flight prices on Skyscanner.
- Consider a Japan Rail Pass - see if it’s worth for you.
- Consider a travel insurance.