I absolutely love find the most unique and innovative places in Kyoto that do a fantastic job of melding traditional aspects with modern elements. Kyoto was the nation’s capital for over a 1,000 years, so it has a rich history and is steeped in traditions. The cafes, restaurants, and places in Kyoto that are able to hold on to some of the traditional elements, while catering to a young, hip, and trendy younger generation, are the ones that spark my interest.
Here’s a list of my top favorite unique and innovative places in Kyoto!
This place is owned by an openly gay Japanese man and his partner, and it’s the first openly-LGBTQ friendly guesthouse in Kyoto. Beyond that amazing fact, it’s also a guest house in converted machiya — or old Japanese style house. They made it more modern by renovating the entire house, and installing beautiful interior decor including many green plants. Because of their gorgeous design, they became immediately popular and won the support of their neighbors.
A wonderful hidden gem in a very residential neighborhood, this cafe is now very famous on Instagram and for those who love visiting unique places. The space is pure white and remarkably calming. It also engenders an atmosphere where strangers can meet each other, as it’s an open, communal space, where everyone is facing each other. So if you have a chance to visit Kyoto, and you love coffee, then definitely check this place out!
3. Blue Bottle Coffee Kyoto Cafe
This is a San Francisco favorite, but what’s different about this Kyoto version, is the stunning architecture. The owners converted an old Japanese style house into a magnificent piece of art that’s 100% worth visiting. Not only is the coffee delicious, but it’s also one of the most beautiful modern buildings with traditional Japanese element built inside.
Also, coincidentally, it’s close to Nanzenji Temple, so you can grab a cup of coffee before visiting this gorgeous temple.
The design of this cafe is absolutely stunning, and even if you don’t order any coffee, it’s a great place to take photos. It’s modern, trendy, and fashionable. And yet, it also captures the traditional Japanese element seen in Sado — or tea ceremonies — where the cafe seems surprisingly simple, and yet, it’s incredibly detailed, with every nook and cranny designed specifically to cater to Japanese tastes. It’s surprisingly complex, and yet, it appears to be so simple and modern.
This is the second location out of three in Kyoto, but it may be the most beautiful and well-designed place. Not only does it have people lining up for coffee at all hours, but it also does a great job of blending modern elements with traditional ones. If you have the chance to come to Kyoto, do visit this beautiful coffee shop.
It’s quite rare for a place in Kyoto to have over 500 reviews. And yet, this place does with 4.1 stars, because of it’s unique, modern, stylish interior and exterior decor. In fact, when you walk past it, you may not even notice that it’s a cafe, as it’s hidden by tall trees and green shrubbery. Although the service is not the best, it’s still a fantastic place to relax, read some books, chat quietly with friends, and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
Hands down, this is the best Starbucks location in all of Japan. Basically, they converted and old Japanese Machiya style house that was barely being used, into one of the most attractive tourist locations in all of Kyoto. What’s great about it is, it’s somewhat hidden amongst all the other restaurants and shops right around it, and the Starbucks logo is quite small. And once you go inside, you can enjoy your drink on traditional tatami style mats, or sit in regular chairs. The combination of new and modern with traditional, is brazenly apparent at this spot.
Thank you very much for reading this post. Please share any other hidden gems or places that combine modern and traditional elements of Japanese culture. I look forward to hearing from you.
