Blue Bottle Coffee
Kyoto
Copyright: Naito29/Shutterstock.comBlue Bottle Coffee
Housed in a century-old building, Blue Bottle Coffee—headquartered in California—opened its doors to the Japanese clientele in 2018 and has already become a local institution. With its modern and minimalist style, the cafeteria harmoniously blends both Japanese and American cultural traditions. Just a few strides from the 13th century Nanzen-ji Temple, it's the perfect setting to treat yourself to a good cup of black coffee along with scrumptious cakes.
Cafes
Kyoto, perhaps the spiritual home of the elaborate tea ceremonies in Japan, has much to say about when and how to enjoy it to its fullest. But the city also enjoys a rich coffee culture, with countless sophisticated and quirky coffeehouses scattered around the city. Today, Kyoto boasts old-style cafes (kissaten) along with more western-style cafes. Picture drinking a fresh, creamy matcha latte or a hot cup of black coffee while ambling around the characteristic cobbled streets lined with wooden houses, temples, and shrines.