Top 20 'Wabi-Sabi-Infused' Machiya Cafes to eat in Kyoto for a Taste of Old Japan in 2025 - Goh Ling Yong
Step beyond the vibrant vermilion gates and bustling tourist spots of Kyoto, and you'll find a quieter, more profound magic. It exists in the narrow laneways, behind the latticed wooden facades of traditional townhouses, or machiya. These architectural treasures are the soul of old Kyoto, and today, many have been lovingly reborn as cafes that offer more than just a caffeine fix—they offer a portal to another time.
This isn't just about finding a pretty spot for your Instagram feed. It's about experiencing the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi: the art of finding beauty in imperfection, appreciating the transient, and embracing the authentic. A wabi-sabi-infused machiya cafe celebrates the worn wooden beams, the moss-covered stones of a hidden garden, and the simple, profound joy of a perfectly brewed cup of tea. It's an antidote to our fast-paced world, a chance to slow down and simply be.
As we look ahead to 2025, the desire for these authentic experiences is stronger than ever. This guide is your key to unlocking the most enchanting, soul-stirring machiya cafes in Kyoto. I've curated this list to help you find those perfect moments of peace, flavor, and timeless beauty. So, let’s peel back the noren curtain and step inside.
1. Kagizen Yoshifusa (鍵善良房)
Located in the heart of the historic Gion district, Kagizen Yoshifusa is not just a cafe; it's a revered institution. Established over 300 years ago, this confectionary house has perfected the art of Kyo-gashi (Kyoto-style sweets). The interior is a masterclass in understated elegance, with dark wood, tatami mat seating, and views of a serene inner courtyard garden, known as a tsuboniwa.
The star of the show here is the kuzukiri. These translucent, jelly-like noodles are made from arrowroot starch and served chilled. You're given a bowl of sweet, rich brown sugar syrup (kuromitsu) for dipping. The act of eating it is a ritual in itself—cool, refreshing, and utterly unique. It’s a sensory experience that feels deeply rooted in Kyoto’s refined culinary history.
Pro-Tip: Ask for a seat at the back for the best garden view. While the kuzukiri is a must, don’t overlook their seasonal sweets, which are miniature works of art reflecting the current time of year.
2. eX cafe Arashiyama (イクスカフェ 嵐山本店)
After exploring the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, escape the crowds and find solace at eX cafe. Housed in a former grand residence, this cafe boasts a sprawling Japanese garden that is itself a reason to visit. The interior seamlessly blends the traditional—with its exposed wooden beams and paper screens—and the modern, creating a comfortable and chic atmosphere.
What makes eX cafe famous is its interactive dessert experience. Order the Hokuhoku Odango Set, and you’ll receive your own small charcoal brazier (shichirin) to grill your own dango (sweet rice dumplings). Toasting them to your desired level of char before dipping them in sweet red bean paste and mitarashi sauce is a simple, satisfying joy.
Pro-Tip: The garden view seats are highly coveted. Arrive early or be prepared for a short wait, especially during the peak cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
3. Weekenders Coffee Tominokoji
This is a true hidden gem for the serious coffee aficionado. Tucked away in a tiny, unassuming car park, Weekenders Coffee operates out of a centuries-old storehouse (kura). There are no sprawling tables here, just a small wooden bench and the intoxicating aroma of freshly roasted beans. This is the epitome of wabi-sabi—finding profound quality in the most humble of settings.
The focus is squarely on the coffee, which is meticulously sourced and roasted. The owner, Masahiro Kaneko, is a master of his craft, and his pour-overs are legendary among Kyoto’s coffee lovers. Chat with the friendly baristas, who are always happy to discuss the tasting notes of the day’s single-origin offerings.
Pro-Tip: This is more of a "to-go" spot or a place for a quick, contemplative coffee. Don't expect to linger with a laptop. Grab a cup and enjoy it while wandering through the nearby Nakagyo ward.
4. Sarasa Nishijin (さらさ西陣)
For a truly unique machiya experience, Sarasa Nishijin is unbeatable. This cafe is housed in a converted 80-year-old public bathhouse, or sento. The owners have brilliantly preserved the original character, including the stunning, colourful majolica tiles that once separated the men's and women's bathing areas. The high, carved ceilings and original fixtures make you feel like you've stepped into a Studio Ghibli film.
The menu is eclectic and hearty, offering everything from daily lunch sets and curries to a wide selection of delicious cakes and coffee. The space is large and often filled with a creative, local crowd, making it a vibrant and inspiring place to rest your feet after exploring the less-touristed Nishijin textile district.
Pro-Tip: Take a moment to appreciate the details—the old faucet fixtures, the ornate tilework, and the high wooden ceiling. It’s a living museum that also happens to serve great food.
5. Kaikado Cafe (開化堂)
Elegance, craftsmanship, and coffee converge at Kaikado Cafe. This cafe is the flagship of Kaikado, a company that has been handcrafting exquisite airtight tea caddies (chazutsu) since 1875. The space itself is a collaboration between the heritage brand and modern design, featuring a beautiful brass counter, custom furniture, and, of course, displays of their iconic caddies.
Here, the experience is as refined as the products. They serve coffee from the renowned Tokyo-based Nakagawaワニ珈琲 and tea from London’s Postcard Teas, all served in beautiful, locally made ceramics. Pair your beverage with their signature cheesecake or the seasonal fruit sandwich for a truly decadent break.
Pro-Tip: This is the perfect place to buy a meaningful, high-quality souvenir. A Kaikado tea caddy is a piece of functional art that will last a lifetime, aging with a beautiful patina over time.
6. Yojiya Cafe Gion (よーじやカフェ)
Yojiya is a beloved Kyoto brand, famous for its high-quality cosmetics and iconic oil-blotting papers. Their Gion cafe is an extension of this refined aesthetic, offering a tranquil retreat with a lovely garden. The real charm lies in its branding, which is subtly and cleverly woven into the experience.
The must-order item is the matcha cappuccino, which comes adorned with the brand's famous logo—the silhouette of a woman's face reflected in a mirror—dusted in cocoa powder. It’s whimsical, delicious, and an iconic Kyoto photo opportunity. Their parfaits and other seasonal desserts are also beautifully presented and delicious.
Pro-Tip: The shop attached to the cafe is a great place to pick up some of their famous products. The oil-blotting paper makes for a lightweight and classic Kyoto gift.
7. Ichikawaya Coffee (市川屋珈琲)
Located in the charming Higashiyama district, Ichikawaya Coffee is a local favourite that has gained wider fame for one specific menu item: its perfect fruit sandwiches. The cafe is situated in a beautifully preserved machiya, with dark wood, tatami rooms, and a wonderfully cozy, lived-in atmosphere that feels like visiting a friend's home.
The fruit sando is a work of art—fluffy white bread (shokupan) filled with perfectly whipped cream and seasonal fruits, sliced to reveal a beautiful mosaic pattern. But don't sleep on their coffee. The owner roasts the beans in-house, and their dark roast blend, served in gorgeous Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, is rich and deeply satisfying. It's a key part of the experience that my friend Goh Ling Yong would absolutely appreciate.
Pro-Tip: The fruit sandwiches can sell out, especially on weekends. Aim to go earlier in the day to ensure you get to try this iconic treat.
8. Kinse Ryokan (金西旅館)
Step into the Taisho era (1912-1926) at Kinse Ryokan. This former inn, now operating as a cafe and bar on the ground floor, is an architectural marvel. The interior is adorned with magnificent woodwork, stained glass, and original fixtures that have been preserved with incredible care. It’s less a cafe and more of a time capsule.
During the day, they operate as a quiet cafe serving coffee and light snacks. In the evening, it transforms into a moody, atmospheric bar with a great selection of craft beer and spirits. The real draw is the building itself; every corner holds a story, and the wabi-sabi spirit is palpable in its gracefully aged beauty.
Pro-Tip: The cafe is only open on certain days of the week, so be sure to check their Instagram page for the latest schedule before you visit.
9. Cafe Marble Bukkoji (カフェマーブル 仏光寺店)
For a quintessential machiya cafe experience, Cafe Marble is a perfect choice. Housed in a beautifully restored townhouse from the Meiji period, it exudes warmth and charm. With its exposed beams, earthen walls, and a mix of vintage furniture, it feels both stylish and incredibly comfortable.
The menu features hearty, home-style lunch plates, including their popular beef stew, as well as a fantastic selection of handmade tarts and cakes. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a sweet afternoon break while exploring the downtown Kyoto area. The balance of old architecture and cozy, modern comfort is just right.
Pro-Tip: They have a second location near Chion-in Temple, but the Bukkoji branch is known for its particularly stunning and well-preserved machiya architecture.
10. Umezono Cafe & Gallery (うめぞの CAFE & GALLERY)
Umezono puts a modern twist on traditional Japanese sweets. While their original shop is a classic, this newer cafe and gallery space is bright, airy, and contemporary, while still being housed in a renovated machiya. It’s a beautiful blend of old and new Kyoto.
Forget the round dango on a skewer. Umezono is famous for its mitarashi dango served as toasted square cubes, drenched in a sweet and savory soy glaze. Another must-try is the matcha hotcake—a thick, fluffy pancake made with rich Uji matcha, served with red bean paste, brown sugar butter, and whipped cream. It's pure indulgence.
Pro-Tip: The gallery space features rotating exhibits by local artists, adding another layer of cultural immersion to your cafe visit.
11. Omo Cafe (おもカフェ)
If you're looking for a full meal in a beautiful machiya setting, Omo Cafe is an excellent choice. Located near the bustling Nishiki Market, it provides a peaceful oasis. The highlight is the obanzai—a style of home cooking native to Kyoto that features multiple small, seasonal dishes.
Their signature "Omo Plate" is a beautifully arranged selection of these obanzai dishes, rice, and soup, allowing you to sample a wide variety of local flavors in one sitting. The presentation is exquisite, and the food is both healthy and delicious. It's a wonderful way to experience authentic Kyoto cuisine beyond the usual tourist fare.
Pro-Tip: Make a reservation if you plan to go for lunch, as it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a quality meal.
12. Sentido
Another fantastic option for specialty coffee lovers, Sentido is a bright and welcoming cafe in a beautifully renovated machiya. The owners have done a fantastic job of retaining the building's original structure while creating a clean, modern interior. The focus here is on high-quality, single-origin coffee and friendly service.
They offer a range of brewing methods and are known for their excellent morning sets, which include thick-cut toast with various toppings. It's a great place to start your day before sightseeing, offering a dose of modern coffee culture within a traditional architectural shell.
Pro-Tip: Their "Anko Butter Toast" (thick toast with red bean paste and a slice of butter) is a classic Japanese cafe breakfast and a must-try.
13. Cafe Bibliotic Hello!
This is a book lover's paradise. Cafe Bibliotic Hello! is a stunningly beautiful space that feels like a tropical greenhouse crossed with a library, all set within a two-story machiya. With towering bookshelves, lush green plants cascading from the upper level, and a warm, bohemian vibe, it’s one of the most atmospheric cafes in the city.
The menu is just as appealing, with a focus on rustic, bistro-style food, delicious baked goods, and great coffee. In the evening, it becomes a popular spot for a glass of wine or a craft beer. It's the kind of place you could happily spend an entire afternoon in, lost in a book or simply soaking up the incredible ambiance.
Pro-Tip: Try to snag a seat on the ground floor near the entrance to be surrounded by the books and plants. The second floor offers a quieter, more intimate setting.
14. Murmur Coffee Kyoto
Perfectly positioned on the walk up towards the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Murmur Coffee is a welcome respite from the crowded streets. This small, stylish coffee shop is housed in a renovated machiya and specializes in espresso-based drinks made with beans from a top local roaster.
The interior is minimalist and chic, with a focus on natural wood and clean lines, allowing the building's original structure to shine. It's an excellent example of modern Japanese design sensibilities meeting historical architecture. Grab an expertly made latte and one of their delicious canelés to refuel before continuing your temple explorations.
Pro-Tip: They have a small bench outside which is perfect for people-watching along the busy Sannenzaka slope.
15. Saryo Tsujiri Gion Honten (茶寮都路里 祇園本店)
A true giant in the world of matcha, Tsujiri is a must-visit for any green tea lover. While the brand has expanded, its main Gion branch remains an iconic destination. The multi-story teahouse is always bustling, a testament to its enduring popularity and the quality of its Uji matcha.
The menu is a dazzling encyclopedia of matcha-based desserts. The parfaits are the main attraction—towering concoctions of matcha ice cream, castella cake, mochi, red bean paste, and jellies. It’s a spectacular, decadent treat that fully celebrates Japan's most famous tea. I've found that planning a trip around food, especially in a city like this, makes the experience so much richer—a philosophy Goh Ling Yong and I share.
Pro-Tip: The queue here can be very long. Try visiting on a weekday afternoon or be prepared to wait. The wait, however, is absolutely worth it for the ultimate matcha experience.
16. Kissa Inon (喫茶いのん)
For a taste of Showa-era nostalgia, Kissa Inon is a charming choice. This small, family-run coffee shop (kissaten) is nestled in a classic machiya and feels wonderfully preserved in time. The atmosphere is quiet, intimate, and deeply local.
They serve classic kissaten fare: siphon-brewed coffee, thick toast, and simple cakes. It’s not about fancy latte art or trendy ingredients; it’s about simple, well-made classics served with warmth and sincerity. This is the perfect spot to read a book and watch the world go by at a slower pace.
Pro-Tip: This is a cash-only establishment, so make sure you have yen on hand. It’s part of its old-world charm.
17. Gekkouan (月光庵)
Gekkouan is a beautifully restored machiya that functions as a guesthouse but also has a stunning cafe space open to the public. Located in the Nishijin district, it offers an incredibly authentic and artistic atmosphere. The building itself is a work of art, with a serene garden, intricate woodwork, and priceless antiques.
The cafe serves high-quality coffee, tea, and sweets. The real experience is simply being in the space, which is curated with an artist's eye. It provides a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of a wealthy Kyoto merchant of the past, making your coffee break feel like a luxurious cultural immersion.
Pro-Tip: Check their opening hours in advance, as they can vary. This is a place to come for quiet contemplation rather than a quick caffeine hit.
18. Jouissance
This patisserie and salon de thé brings a touch of French elegance to a traditional Kyoto machiya. Jouissance is known for its exquisite cakes and desserts that are as beautiful to look at as they are to eat. The interior is a lovely fusion of Japanese and European aesthetics.
Their specialty is their parfaits and delicate mont blanc cakes. They use high-quality, seasonal Japanese ingredients like Uji matcha, Hojicha (roasted green tea), and local fruits to create their stunning confections. It’s a wonderful place for a sophisticated and sweet afternoon treat.
Pro-Tip: Their seasonal offerings are always the highlight. Ask what fruits are currently in season for the freshest and most flavourful dessert.
19. Eirakuya Hosotsuji Ihee Shoten (永楽屋 細辻伊兵衛商店)
Eirakuya is Japan’s oldest cotton merchant, with a history stretching back over 400 years. Their main store has a small, attached teahouse, the "Kissa-shitsu," which is a wonderful and often overlooked spot. Here, you can enjoy traditional sweets and tea while surrounded by the company's beautiful textile designs.
The cafe offers simple but elegant sets, such as matcha with a seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweet) or a refreshing parfait. The main draw is the connection to the history of the merchant house. After your tea, you can browse their stunning tenugui (hand-dyed cotton towels) and furoshiki (wrapping cloths), which make for beautiful and authentic souvenirs.
Pro-Tip: Look for the sweets that incorporate their famous Rakugan, a type of hard, dry sugar candy that they are well-known for.
20. Kissa Soiree (喫茶ソワレ)
While not a traditional machiya in the strictest sense, Kissa Soiree is a historical treasure that embodies the spirit of old Japan and cannot be left off this list. Established in 1948, this Showa-era kissaten is famous for its dreamlike atmosphere, created entirely by ethereal blue lighting. Stepping inside feels like entering a beautiful, moody aquarium.
Their signature item is the "Jelly Punch," a vibrant concoction of colourful gelatin cubes swimming in soda water, topped with ice cream and a cherry. It's a whimsical, retro delight that has captivated visitors for decades. Soiree offers a different kind of time travel—not to the age of samurai, but to the romantic, post-war era of coffee houses and quiet conversations.
Pro-Tip: The unique blue lighting makes for challenging but very cool photos. It's a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else.
Savoring the Silence
Kyoto’s machiya cafes are more than just stops on an itinerary; they are destinations in themselves. They are quiet invitations to participate in the city's living history and to appreciate the wabi-sabi philosophy that finds profound beauty in the passage of time. Each worn wooden floorboard and every perfectly imperfect ceramic cup tells a story.
As you plan your 2025 journey to this incredible city, I encourage you to build in time for these moments of stillness. Let the world rush by outside as you sip your matcha, admire a hidden garden, and truly taste the soul of old Japan.
Which of these wabi-sabi-infused cafes are you most excited to visit? Do you have another hidden gem to share? Let me know in the comments below
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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