Discover the perfect blend of history and modernity in Arashiyama, where traditional matcha meets unique café experiences. These carefully selected locations offer not just exceptional matcha treats, but also immersive cultural experiences that will enhance your Kyoto adventure.
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1. SAGANO-YU: A Historic Bathhouse Transformed
(image sourced from:https://naochen.blog.jp/archives/10971550.html)
Where Japanese Bath Culture Meets Matcha Excellence
Step into a piece of living history at SAGANO-YU, a carefully renovated public bathhouse from the Taisho era (1912-1926). This unique café preserves authentic elements of its bathing past, including original shower fixtures and faucets, creating an extraordinary atmosphere that celebrates Japanese cultural heritage.
Must-Try: Matcha Paradise Pancakes
(image sourced from:https://kyoetsu-gion.com/)
Experience their signature "Matcha Paradise Pancakes," where premium Uji matcha powder delicately dusts a uniquely textured pancake made with soy milk and okara (soybean pulp). The dense, chewy texture creates the perfect canvas for the accompanying matcha chocolate sauce, which you can drizzle to your heart's content.
Cultural Highlights:
- Original bathhouse scale and vintage wooden shoe lockers
- Nostalgic tile murals depicting traditional scenes
- Authentic bathing area fixtures preserved as decoration
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Location Details: Address: 4-3 Imakoji-cho, Tenryuji, Sagano, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Tel: +81-75-882-8985 Access: 1-min walk from Arashiyama Station (Keifuku Railway) Website: http://www.sagano-yu.com/ |
2. Café Hassui: Luxury with a River View
(image sourced from:https://www.tablecheck.com/en/suirankyoto-hassui)
Elegant Matcha Dining in a Historic Setting
Nestled within the Suiran Luxury Collection Hotel Kyoto, Café Hassui occupies the historic former Hassoken building, offering a refined atmosphere that perfectly complements its premium matcha offerings. The terrace seats provide breathtaking views of the emerald Hozu River, creating an unparalleled setting for your matcha experience.
(image sourced from:https://www.suihotels.com/suiran-kyoto/restaurant/cafe-hassui/)
Signature Items:
- Matcha Pound Cake: Enhanced with Tamba black beans, offering a subtle bitter note
- Hassui Afternoon Set: A three-tiered afternoon tea experience
- Jade Mochi: Their original creation combining matcha and kuzu starch for a rich, jiggly texture
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Location Details:
Address: Suiran Luxury Collection Hotel Kyoto, 12 Susukinobaba-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto |
3. eX cafe Kyoto Arashiyama Store: Traditional House Turned Modern Café
(image sourced from:https://yukonosuke.com/entry/kyoto_arashiyama_ex_cafe)
Interactive Matcha Experiences in a Classic Setting
Located just one minute from Arashiyama Station, this converted traditional Japanese house offers a perfect blend of old and new. Guests can enjoy their matcha treats while overlooking a charming garden from the engawa (veranda), surrounded by stylish Japanese art.
Highlight: Tenryuji Parfait Set
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Their famous parfait features organic matcha known for its ultimate aroma and taste, combined with matcha ice cream, warabi mochi, and seasonal sweets. The presentation is inspired by the nearby Tenryuji Temple, creating a sophisticated balance between rich matcha flavor and subtle sweetness.
Don't Miss: Interactive Dango Experience
(image sourced from:https://www.gltjp.com/ja/directory/item/12483/)
Their most popular "Hokuhoku Dango Set" allows guests to grill their own rice dumplings over a traditional charcoal brazier, paired with premium matcha for an authentic Japanese tea and sweets experience.
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Location Details:
Address: 35-3 Tsukurimichi-cho, Tenryuji, Saga, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto |
The Arashiyama Matcha Experience
Each of these cafés offers a unique perspective on Japanese matcha culture, from historical bathhouse charm to riverside luxury and traditional house comfort. Their careful selection of premium matcha and authentic preparation methods ensures visitors can experience the true essence of Kyoto's tea tradition while enjoying modern café amenities.
After experiencing the serene beauty of a traditional tea ceremony in Japan, many travelers find themselves yearning to recreate that moment of zen in their daily lives. MATCHA STYLE brings that authentic matcha experience into your home, allowing you to maintain your connection with Japan's centuries-old tea tradition.
