Fukyuan — Restaurant in Takayama

Really delicious food, amazing space, and friendly staff! The cafe surrounds a beautiful courtyard you can enjoy while eating/drinking... It's not on a main road so it isn't too crowded either, so it's a nice break from the crowds of tourists in other cafes in Takayama. It's in an older building too, so it's a nice way to see inside a traditional "old house" of Takayama. Really decent prices too, and their matcha seems very high quality. They also have a large selection of vegan options (any of their coffee or tea lattes can be made with soy milk, and as of March 2023 they seem to have a vegan (or at the very least dairy-free) soft serve.) The staff are also very friendly here... They don't rush you at all and are always attentive. They also being you nice black tea after you're finished with your main drink/dessert! This cafe is right next to the showa museum so I highly recommend stopping in for a rest! I think it's a must see/experience while in Takayama (particularly if you like warabi mochi and/or matcha!)

Edit 3/13/23 I came back the next day since I could not stop thinking about this cafe's Warabimochi... I asked the waitress and yes in fact the soy milk soft serve is 100% vegan! If you tell the waitress that you don't eat dairy she'll make sure to leave out the whipped cream so you can enjoy this dessert. It was so delicious! The ice cream had a really deep soy milk flavor and is definitely the best dairy-free soft serve I've had in Japan. Again, I cannot emphasize enough how thoughtful the staff is with allergies and how friendly and accommodating they are! I hope to come back to this cafe many times on my next trip in Takayama. Highly...

Fukyuan is a hidden gem tucked away in Takayama’s charming old town—nestled in a peaceful side lane just steps from the bustling tourist streets. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by the warmest smiles and gracious hospitality, instantly setting the tone for what would become one of our most memorable dining experiences in Japan.

We were shown to a table overlooking a serene central garden—an absolutely breathtaking view. It felt like stepping back in time into a refined traditional home, where classic Japanese architecture meets tasteful modern design. As sunlight poured in through the engawa, the space was bathed in a golden glow, accompanied by the gentle backdrop of soft jazz—it was truly atmospheric.

We ordered a coffee float and a pizza, and both were outstanding. The pizza had a perfectly crisp, wood-fired crust that rivaled any we’ve had before. During our few weeks in Takayama, Fukyuan quickly became our favorite spot, not just for the food, but for the genuine kindness of the family who runs it. Each return visit felt like coming home.

If you’re in Takayama, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit. And whatever you do—don’t leave without trying the crepes. They’re absolutely to die...

I absolutely loved this relaxing café and it was all I wanted: the soft chairs, the cozy warmth, the gentle music, and the stunning view of the garden nestled in the center. It’s exactly what I look for in a café: a place where you feel truly welcome and encouraged to linger.

So many other cafés miss the mark with hard chairs and an atmosphere that lacks warmth—both emotionally and physically. But this gem offers both in abundance. The café is housed in a beautiful traditional building, adding even more charm to the experience.

Whether you prefer Western-style seating with plush chairs or a traditional Japanese room where you sit on the floor, they have both options. They also offer an English menu, making it accessible for more people.

I treated myself to a banana and chocolate crêpe, yuzu soda and café latte. I was there on a Wednesday at 11:30, and I had the place to myself.

Please visit and support this wonderful spot—it’s...