Starbucks Coffee - Kyoto Nineizaka Yasaka Chaya — Restaurant in Kyoto

As beautiful as the store is, I'm sorry to say but the service was absolutely horrendous. I visited the store as it's always been on my bucket list, and was expecting a wonderful experience like what the others have said. Along with my drinks, I bought 2 Starbucks Cards which have 1,000円 in each of them.

After I finished my drinks, I wanted to get a limited Kyoto Starbucks Cup and so I did, and wanted to pay using one of the Starbucks Cards I bought earlier on. After trying many times, the payment still failed and the staff had no idea why and we also had troubles communicating due to the language barrier. Eventually, the store manager came over to check on the situation and found out that my Starbucks Card did not have the 1,000円 charged in it because of their own system network errors, although I've already paid for it.

So, to figure out on how to solve the situation, they told me to take a sit. After 30 minutes, 45 minutes, and then 1 hour, they still haven't got back to me. I was already very patient with them and I did not confront them even when it was already 1 hour. As a tourist, time is very precious and moreover, I was in my rental kimono!! Which means that I'm seriously wasting both my time and money as I waited for their answer which seemed to never come.

I couldn't wait any longer after 1 hour++ and so I finally asked them whether they were done and whether I could just leave yet, but they still weren't done. I got frustrated and told them to just refund me the 1,000円 that I paid for nothing and just let me leave. They did, and still took another 10 minutes or so to do that.

In conclusion, what I wanted to say is, why didn't the store manager just give me a simple refund in the first place instead of letting me wait for 1 hour++ without an answer?... I'm very disappointed and upset about my visit, although the drinks and atmosphere were amazing. After my holiday in Japan, I wanted to write in a feedback to Starbucks to see if there was anything they could do to help me. They took a long time to get back to me, just to tell me that they are not accepting ANY email feedbacks for Starbucks Japan and I was told to call them, which didn't make any sense.

Please work on your system, and feedback to the Kyoto Store properly so they wouldn't continue to waste a customer's time like this. Because of the 1 hour++ wait, I missed out on going several landmarks I wanted to visit. To be honest, I was so upset I could really cry as it was my first time travelling after...

This Starbucks is not just a coffee shop; it's an experience that perfectly blends modern convenience with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Located in the historic Ninenzaka district, on the path leading to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, this branch is housed in a beautifully preserved 100-year-old machiya (traditional wooden townhouse). You won't find the usual prominent green Starbucks sign outside; instead, a subtle noren (traditional Japanese curtain) and a discreet lantern with the logo mark its entrance, allowing it to seamlessly blend into its historic surroundings. Stepping inside is like entering a tranquil oasis. The interior is meticulously designed, featuring natural wood, lime walls, and soft lighting filtered by washi paper. What truly sets this Starbucks apart are the tatami mat seating areas on the upper floor, where you take off your shoes and sit on cushions, offering a unique and authentic Japanese tea room experience. You can enjoy your favorite Starbucks beverage while admiring decorative alcoves (tokonoma) with seasonal flower arrangements or hanging scrolls. While it's a Starbucks and the menu is largely similar to other branches in Japan, the charm lies entirely in the atmosphere. It's an incredibly popular spot, so expect crowds, especially during peak tourist hours. Visiting early in the morning or in the evening is highly recommended for a more peaceful experience. Despite the popularity, the staff are typically efficient and maintain the high standard of Japanese service. It's definitely a must-visit for anyone in Kyoto looking for a unique coffee experience that beautifully marries tradition with...

We came here for the very first time and it was nice. The neighborhood is very quiet (maybe because we came right at opening). There were lots of little shops around this location! (Unfortunately we didn't get to stop by to the little shops for souvenirs or other food stalls due to the facts we were on a tight schedule).

It's just like a regular Starbucks but the place feels more cozy. I think it's because of the layout, it's just like a house! (If anything it is a house!)

Tips: 1. If you are driving your own car: Don't take the last right turn on since the end is legit a set of stairs and nowhere to make a u turn, so if you don't want to end up backing up with a car to get out and really stand out then I suggest parking on those paid parking on the left side before that last right turn and walking from there. It's a short walk.

You won't really find it if you're not looking up. We couldn't find the place at first since they were still closed. We only found it because of the strong delicious coffee aroma in the area. . . (And also we saw the Starbucks sign eventually, see pic posted)

When ordering/paying, you will do that at the first counter. After paying, you go past the first counter and you will find another counter where the batista is at to get you drinks!!!

THERE ARE MORE SEATS ON THE SECOND FLOOR!!!!!

If you have a lot of time, WALK AROUND AND EXPLORE!!! We saw that 4 tier pagoda when we walked up the stairs!

I really recommend to check it out! It's an interesting place. It gives a different vibe for sure!!! Good...