Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Located in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern coffee culture. This Starbucks branch is in a 100-year-old traditional Japanese townhouse, providing a unique experience for coffee lovers. This article delves into this fabulous Starbucks location’s history, architecture, and overall experience.

A Historic Location in Kyoto

The Significance of Ninenzaka

This Starbucks was opened in the famous tourist city of Kyoto in 2017. This is the Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya store. It’s the first Starbucks located in a traditional Japanese house. The shop is located near the World Heritage site Kiyomizudera Temple.

••THREAD•• pic.twitter.com/Ndm91s2lZA

— INTERIORS とじまと (@Tojimato) June 13, 2020

Ninenzaka, the street on which Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya resides, leads to the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s major tourist attractions. The sloping street is lined with well-preserved historical buildings and shops, offering a charming atmosphere for visitors. The presence of the Starbucks store on this historical road showcases the company’s commitment to blending seamlessly into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

Preserving the Traditional Japanese Townhouse

Image source: Reddit u/madeyoucookies

Renovating with Respect for History

The Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya is set in a two-story, 100-year-old traditional Japanese townhouse known as a “machiya.” The renovation process involved meticulous preservation of the building’s historic character. The exterior remains virtually untouched, with no Starbucks logo in sight. Instead, customers enter through an indigo curtain, known as a “noren,” signifying the entrance to a traditional establishment.

A Zen Atmosphere

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by an interior featuring tatami mat seating, silk cushions, and a serene Japanese garden. The design elements create a calming atmosphere that pays homage to the tranquility associated with traditional Japanese tea rooms. The architectural choices invite guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of Japanese culture while still enjoying the familiar comfort of Starbucks coffee.

Blending into the Historical Landscape

Starbucks has been present in Japan since the 1990s, making it a priority to integrate into the country’s unique and historical landscapes. The Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya branch is a testament to the success of that mission. The company took on the challenge of meeting the city’s stringent requirements for renovating historical architecture and skillfully transformed the centuries-old residence into a functioning Starbucks store.

A Unique Starbucks Experience

Consistency and Authenticity

Although the Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya offers the same menu items as other Starbucks branches, its ambiance sets it apart. The store is the first Starbucks to feature tatami seating and to be housed in a traditional Japanese building. This harmony of tradition and modernity attracts both tourists and locals alike.

Etiquette and Accessibility

Guests can expect to follow a few customs specific to this location. For instance, shoes must be removed before stepping onto the tatami mats. Unfortunately, the narrow layout of the building and the presence of stairs may pose challenges for customers with mobility issues or those carrying large bags.

Directions

Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya is located at 349 Banchi, Masuya-cho, Shimogawara Higashi-iru, Kodaiji Minamimon-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, 605-0826 Japan. The closest metro station to the location is Gion-Shijo. To get there, take the metro to Gion-Shijo station and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the Starbucks location. It is a great location as part of an itinerary for things to do on your next Kyoto trip, and it can be a stop between Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine.

Must Visit Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya

The Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya in Kyoto is a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts and lovers of Japanese tradition. The fusion of historical architecture and Starbucks’ modern brand offers a unique, immersive experience unlike any other coffee shop. Whether stopping by for a caffeinated pick-me-up, bite to eat, or simply admiring the beautiful aesthetics, visitors will undoubtedly leave with a greater appreciation for Japan’s rich history and culture.