Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples. After exploring its beautiful grounds, why not enjoy a delicious dessert or a relaxing cup of tea? The area around Kiyomizu-dera is filled with amazing cafes and sweet shops, offering everything from traditional Japanese treats to specialty coffee.
Here are 7 must-visit sweets and cafes near Kiyomizu-dera, ranked by popularity!
- 1. Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama – Kyoto’s Most Famous Coffee Shop
- 2. Kyo Yasaka Pudding – Kyoto’s Most Popular Pudding
- 3. Kiyomizu Kyoami – The Best Matcha Parfait in Kyoto
- 4. Café Goryukaku – A Retro Kyoto Experience
- 5. Cafe Garakuta – A Cozy and Artistic Café
- 6. Otowa Saryo – A Quiet Tea House with a View
- 7. Hisaya Café – A Hidden Gem for Sweet Lovers
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
1. Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama – Kyoto’s Most Famous Coffee Shop
If you love coffee, Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama is a must-visit. This world-famous café is known for its high-quality coffee and stylish design. Located near Kiyomizu-dera, it’s the perfect stop before or after sightseeing.
- Their specialty coffee is made from premium beans.
- The café has a modern, minimalist design.
- Enjoy your coffee with a beautiful view of Higashiyama.
✅ ▶ Visit Official Site: Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama
2. Kyo Yasaka Pudding – Kyoto’s Most Popular Pudding
This shop is famous for its smooth and creamy pudding. With flavors like matcha and hojicha, it offers a unique Kyoto-style twist on a classic dessert.
- The matcha and hojicha pudding are must-tries.
- The shop has a cute, Kyoto-style atmosphere.
- The glass pudding jars make great souvenirs.
✅ ▶ Visit Official Site: Kyo Yasaka Pudding
3. Kiyomizu Kyoami – The Best Matcha Parfait in Kyoto
If you love matcha desserts, this is the place for you. Their matcha parfaits and warabi mochi are made with high-quality Uji matcha.
- Their matcha parfait is rich and full of deep green tea flavor.
- You can also try warabi mochi with matcha and kinako.
- The café is located just a short walk from Kiyomizu-dera.
✅ ▶ Visit Official Site: Kiyomizu Kyoami
4. Café Goryukaku – A Retro Kyoto Experience
This café is inside a beautiful traditional Kyoto house. It offers a relaxing atmosphere and classic Japanese desserts.
- Their matcha latte and anmitsu are popular choices.
- The building is a historic Kyoto house with a Taisho-era design.
- It’s a great place to enjoy sweets in a quiet setting.
✅ ▶ Visit Official Site: Café Goryukaku
5. Cafe Garakuta – A Cozy and Artistic Café
This café is perfect for those who love a warm, artistic atmosphere. It serves delicious Kyoto-style desserts in a retro setting.
- They offer homemade cakes and Kyoto-style sweets.
- The café has a traditional Japanese feel.
- It’s a great place to relax away from the crowds.
✅ ▶ Visit Official Site: Cafe Garakuta
6. Otowa Saryo – A Quiet Tea House with a View
If you want a peaceful café with a traditional touch, this is a great choice. The shop serves high-quality Japanese tea and sweets.
- You can enjoy Kyoto-style matcha and wagashi (Japanese sweets).
- The tea house has a calm and quiet atmosphere.
- It’s a great place to take a break after sightseeing.
✅ ▶ Visit Official Site: Otowa Saryo
7. Hisaya Café – A Hidden Gem for Sweet Lovers
This small café is a hidden treasure near Kiyomizu-dera. It serves unique Kyoto-style sweets with modern flavors.
- Their Japanese-style parfaits are highly recommended.
- The café has a quiet and cozy atmosphere.
- It’s a great place for a sweet break in Kyoto.
✅ ▶ Visit Official Site: Hisaya Café
Final Thoughts
The Kiyomizu-dera area is full of amazing cafes and sweet shops. Whether you want rich matcha desserts, traditional Japanese sweets, or world-class coffee, you’ll find the perfect spot here.
Try these 7 must-visit cafes and enjoy Kyoto’s sweetest treats!
FAQ
Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama is the best café for coffee lovers. They serve high-quality specialty coffee in a stylish setting. You can enjoy your drink with a beautiful view of Higashiyama.
Many cafes near Kiyomizu-dera, like Arabica Kyoto and Kyo Yasaka Pudding, offer English menus. Some also have pictures, making it easy for visitors to order.
Yes, Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most popular temples, so it gets very crowded, especially during cherry blossom (spring) and autumn leaves (fall) seasons. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
