Kyoto’s Sanjo and Shijo districts are bustling hubs of culture, shopping, and, of course, matcha delights. For matcha enthusiasts, these central areas offer a variety of cafés and shops where tradition meets modern innovation. Here’s a focused guide to the must-visit matcha spots in Sanjo and Shijo, complete with business hours and access tips.
Table of Contents
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a powdered green tea made from shade-grown leaves, offering a concentrated source of nutrients. Unlike regular tea, matcha is consumed whole, maximizing its benefits.
Matcha has a unique flavor profile with rich, earthy, and umami notes, a mild natural sweetness balanced by gentle bitterness, and fresh, grassy undertones that vary from smooth and sweet in ceremonial grades to robust in culinary grades.
1. Gion Tsujiri(祇園辻利 祇園本店)
A legendary name in Kyoto’s tea culture, Gion Tsujiri’s Shijo location offers matcha parfaits, ice cream, and drinks. Their elegant storefront and carefully crafted treats make this a must-visit.
- Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line or Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line.
2. Fukujuen Kyoto Flagship Store (福寿園京都本店)
This elegant tea shop near Shijo offers an immersive experience. Sip matcha at their tea bar, indulge in seasonal desserts at their café, or take home premium matcha powders.
- Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line or Shijo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line.
3. SAWAWA Nishiki Market (茶和々 錦市場店)
Located in the heart of Nishiki Market, SAWAWA is a paradise for matcha fans. Their creamy matcha soft-serve ice cream is the star attraction, served with a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.
- Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Access: A 5-minute walk from Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Line or Shijo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line.
4. Umezono Café & Gallery (うめぞのカフェ＆ギャラリー)
A hidden gem blending art and matcha, Umezono offers traditional matcha with wagashi (Japanese sweets), as well as modern creations like matcha pancakes.
- Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last order: 5:30 PM)
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Karasuma-Oike Station on the Kyoto Subway Line or Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Line.
5. Saryo Suisen (茶寮翠泉)
Located near Shijo, Saryo Suisen specializes in luxurious matcha desserts, including their signature matcha fondue, where fresh fruits and sweets are dipped into velvety matcha sauce.
- Business Hours: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Shijo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line or Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line.
6. Kyo Hayashiya (京はやしや 京都店)
Kyo Hayashiya serves a wide variety of matcha desserts, including parfaits, cakes, and matcha warabi mochi. Their relaxed café ambiance is ideal for a quiet matcha break.
- Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Last order: 7:30 PM)
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Sanjo Station on the Keihan Line or Sanjo-Keihan Subway Station.
Plan Your Kyoto Matcha Adventure
These Sanjo and Shijo locations offer a perfect blend of traditional and modern matcha experiences. Whether you’re grabbing a quick ice cream or indulging in a serene café break, these spots are sure to delight any matcha enthusiast exploring Kyoto.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What makes Kyoto’s matcha different from other green teas?
Kyoto’s matcha is renowned for its superior quality, thanks to its long-standing tea-growing traditions in the Uji region. The leaves are shade-grown, hand-picked, and carefully ground into fine powder, resulting in a rich umami flavor and vibrant green color unmatched by other green teas.
2. Which place is best for a quick grab-and-go matcha snack?
If you’re short on time, SAWAWA Nishiki Market is the perfect stop. Their creamy matcha soft-serve ice cream is a quick, delicious treat right in the heart of Nishiki Market.
3. I want to pair my matcha with a traditional Japanese sweet. Where should I go?
Head to Umezono Café & Gallery. This cozy spot offers traditional matcha alongside wagashi (Japanese sweets), providing a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.
4. Are these matcha cafés tourist-friendly?
Yes! Most of the spots mentioned are welcoming to visitors and provide menus with pictures or English translations. For the best experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours.
5. Can I bring matcha back home as a souvenir?
Absolutely! Shops like Fukujuen Kyoto Flagship Store offer premium matcha powders perfect for gifts or personal use. They often provide advice on brewing the perfect cup at home.
6. Is there a seasonal matcha dessert I shouldn’t miss?
Keep an eye out for limited-time seasonal treats like matcha fondue at Saryo Suisen or matcha parfaits with fresh fruits. Kyoto’s cafés often rotate their menus to reflect seasonal flavors.
7. Are these locations accessible for first-time visitors to Kyoto?
Yes, all six spots are located in the bustling Sanjo and Shijo areas, easily reachable by subway or a short walk from major stations like Gion-Shijo, Karasuma, or Sanjo.
8. Which café offers the most luxurious matcha experience?
For an upscale experience, visit Saryo Suisen and try their signature matcha fondue—a unique, indulgent treat that perfectly showcases the depth of matcha flavors.
