One of the things that I like to do in Japan is to visit a special Starbucks property if there is one. Starbucks Kyoto Ninenzaka is one outlet that has been on my bucket list for a long while. I have seen plenty of photos of the outlet which is housed in a machiya located in the historic Ninenzaka on social media and blogs.
This is the second unique Starbucks property that I had the opportunity to visit in the same trip; the first being the property in Uji, Kyoto. The other Starbucks property that I really like is in Dazaifu, Fukuoka. The one that was previously along Shijo-dori, Kyoto had a lovely view overseeing the Kamo river. Sadly, the outlet is closed.
Starbucks Kyoto Ninenzaka occupies two floors of the machiya. The first floor is where customers queue to buy and collect their beverages. The second floor is divided into several self-contained spaces for customers to sit down and enjoy their drinks.
I would have liked to sit at this tatami-style seats but was concerned that I would have difficulty getting up afterwards.
The interior of the machiya is not big but very nicely done up – nice modern feel yet quaint, all within the space of a very old building. We took a turn round the second floor and found a spot to sip our drinks and enjoy the space.
My view from where I was seated. I can imagine how pretty this view would be when it starts snowing in winter.
This is definitely worth a visit if you are in the Kiyomizu area, even if you are not a fan of. Starbucks. When I next visit, I am going to come by very early and get myself one of those nice chairs where I can sit down with a book.
Starbucks Kyoto Ninenzaka
Address: 349 Banchi, Masuya-cho, Shimogawara Higashi-iru, Kodaiji Minamimon-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Opening Hours: 8:00am – 8:00pm
