Kyoto, the ancient capital, is the heart of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
And when it comes to culture you can taste, nothing represents Kyoto quite like matcha.
It’s more than just a drink; it’s an art form, a moment of tranquility, and a deep-rooted tradition.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the most beautiful and authentic places in and around Kyoto to savor a bowl of matcha.
If you’re new to this special green tea, we recommend reading our guide on how to properly enjoy matcha first.
Enhance Your Kyoto Experience with a Kimono
Strolling through Kyoto’s historic streets and visiting these stunning temples in a traditional kimono makes the experience even more magical and memorable.
It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture and capture beautiful photos.
1. Kifune Hyoe Cafe (Kibune)
Nestled in the serene mountain village of Kibune, this cafe offers a truly unique experience.
You can enjoy your matcha while listening to the soothing sounds of the Kibune River flowing right beside you.
It’s especially beautiful during the summer with lush greenery or in the autumn with vibrant fall colors.
- What to Expect: A peaceful tea time surrounded by nature.
- Best For: Escaping the city’s hustle and bustle for a refreshing break.
2. Saryo Shoyu-an at Heian Jingu Shrine
After being mesmerized by the vibrant vermilion colors of Heian Jingu Shrine, step into its vast and beautiful garden.
Here you’ll find Saryo Shoyu-an, a traditional tea house where you can rest your feet.
Enjoying a warm bowl of matcha while gazing at the picturesque Japanese garden is a moment of pure zen.
- What to Expect: A classic tea-and-garden experience in a famous shrine.
- Best For: A cultural pause after sightseeing.
3. Saruya at Shimogamo Shrine
Shimogamo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is surrounded by a primeval forest called Tadasu no Mori.
Inside the shrine grounds, you will find a charming rest stop called Saruya.
Here you can try their famous “Sarumochi,” a sweet rice cake that pairs wonderfully with their matcha.
Pro Tip: If you visit in late July, you might be able to experience the “Mitarashi Festival,” where people walk through a sacred stream to purify themselves.
- What to Expect: Traditional sweets and tea in a sacred, ancient forest.
- Best For: A taste of history and unique local treats.
4. Fudokama Chasho at Kinkaku-ji Temple
No trip to Kyoto is complete without seeing the dazzling Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji.
Within its grounds, there is an outdoor tea house where you can sit on red benches and enjoy matcha.
The tea comes with a small, delightful sweet stamped with the temple’s phoenix crest, making for a perfect, memorable photo.
- What to Expect: A quintessential Kyoto experience with an iconic view.
- Best For: Combining world-famous sightseeing with a cultural tea break.
5. Sanbo-in at Daigo-ji Temple
Daigo-ji is another World Heritage site, famous for its deep connection to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a powerful historical figure.
The garden of the Sanbo-in sub-temple is a designated National Treasure and is breathtakingly beautiful.
Sipping matcha here feels like a luxurious journey back in time, surrounded by centuries of history and impeccable design.
- What to Expect: A taste of elegance and history in a magnificent garden.
- Best For: History buffs and garden lovers.
Source: Daigo-ji Temple Official Website
6. Sanzen-in Temple (Ohara)
Located in the tranquil rural village of Ohara, Sanzen-in Temple is famous for its stunning moss garden.
After a stroll through the temple grounds, you can enjoy matcha in a tatami room overlooking the garden.
It’s an incredibly photogenic spot, especially during the rainy season when the hydrangeas are in bloom and the moss is at its most vibrant.
- What to Expect: A meditative tea time with a view of a world-class moss garden.
- Best For: Photographers and those seeking peace and natural beauty.
Source: Sanzen-in Temple Official Website
Bonus: A Unique Tea Experience in Nara
If your travels take you to the nearby city of Nara, don’t miss the Ochamori-shiki (Great Tea Ceremony) at Saidai-ji Temple.
This isn’t your average tea ceremony.
Participants drink matcha from an enormous tea bowl that is about 30 cm in diameter!.
Important: This is a special event held only a few times a year, typically in January, April, and October.
Be sure to check the official website for the exact dates before you go.
Source: Saidai-ji Temple Official Website
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To fully appreciate these experiences, learn about the etiquette and history behind this special green tea.
A Beginner’s Guide to Matcha: How to Drink and Appreciate It
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