Kyoto, Japan｜YUGEN

A great cultural Japanese tea experience. The interior was minimalist in design and very elegant and cool - befitting of a cafe that serves quality tea. The owner was very friendly and explained about the different teas. It was also interesting watching him make my tea. The tea came with the most delicious o-hagi sweets I've ever eaten. I loved my visit there.

Loved the minimalist decor and peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful tea and traditional Japanese dessert / wagashi shop! The menu is all in Japanese, but the person working the day I visited spoke great English and also shared pictures to help me choose. I opted for the ohagi and matcha set, and the kinako and wasabi flavors were amazing! The wasabi was subtly sweet - highly recommend if it’s available. I went on a Sunday and when the shop was quieter, had a really fun conversation with the guy who made my tea. The option to choose the matcha bowl you drink out of is also really fun, and the curated selection is beautiful (you can also buy the bowl but at a hefty price). The other tea wares and tea leaves for sale were very high quality and I bought a beautiful glass tea cup I’m excited to use. A must go in Kyoto!

Modern design meets tea ceremony tradition at this gem of a teahouse. Guests sit at the counter can watch their tea/matcha made in front of them. The store is very minimalist aesthetic, and you can choose the ceramic matcha bowl you’d like your matcha served in. We enjoyed the jelly dessert and apricot mochi. The store does not offer non-Japanese menus; however the staff is happy to help. Our server was extremely friendly and helpful, explaining the process of making matcha and how the matcha is sourced from the owner’s farmer friend in Uji! Would highly recommend, especially if you’re looking for an air conditioned spot to escape the heat.