Dessert Cafe Chourakukan is a hidden gem in Kyoto that is worth discovering. Located in the Higashiyama district, this cafe is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and authentic Japanese experience. The cafe’s name, Chourakukan, translates to “a place to enjoy tea with a clear mind,” and it lives up to its name by offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and contemplation. An English-style afternoon tea stand is lined with scones and sandwiches, along with cakes and tea to color an elegant afternoon.

One of the things that make Cafe Chourakukan special is its traditional Japanese architecture. The cafe is housed in a beautifully restored 100-year-old machiya (traditional wooden townhouse), which provides a stunning backdrop for its customers to enjoy their tea and pastries. The cafe also has a lovely outdoor garden where customers can enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto while sipping their tea.

The menu at Cafe Chourakukan features a variety of teas, including the famous matcha green tea, which is sourced directly from local Kyoto tea farms. The cafe also serves delicious pastries that are made with locally sourced ingredients, such as the “Kyoto-style French toast” and “warabi-mochi” (a traditional Japanese sweet made with bracken starch). Whether you are looking for a light snack or a full meal, Cafe Chourakukan has something to offer.