Kiyomizudera’s Hidden Matcha Terrace – Shogoin Yatsuhashi

Kiyomizudera is one of the famous tourist spots in Kyoto’s west. Not just for the famous temple itself, but also for its long winding streets full of craft shops, souvenir stalls, and restaurants offering many local Japanese delicacies.

Many of them sold from street vendors, some more hidden away as it is so often the case in Japan. With Shogoin Yatsuhashi being no exception.

So as you get closer to Kiyomizudera you will inevitably pass by Shogoin Yatsuhashi. Or if you know better, you won’t. You will head to the back of the store, where the little hidden Tea house is located. The perfect stop for a quick break before continuing heading up to the Temple.

And this really is a well-kept secret, a hidden away tea house, including a beautiful terrace overlooking the surrounding rooftops and gardens.

A little oasis away from the bustling street out the front. Almost invisible, especially if the streets are busy with tourists, which they almost always are. So easy to be missed.

So once you are here, make sure you head to the back of the shop and find yourself a seat.

The menu is pretty straight forward, with only a few options. Matcha hot and matcha cold, with a duo of traditional sweets on the side. Coffee, tea, and juice.

I recommend ordering the match set for 650Yen, including the duo of wagashi, a traditional Japanese sweet. Here they come in a triangular shape and two variations. A white one, filled with red bean paste and a hint of cinnamon, and a black one, filled with black sesame seed paste. Both utterly delicious and the perfect combination with your matcha.

It is also a great alternative to get an authentic matcha tea, without the lengthy tea ceremony.

Although attending one is a beautiful experience. Depending on your time and interest you may opt for this instead. Giving you the taste without the time commitment and with the beautiful view, it would be a shame not to have a little break at Shogoin Yatsuhashi.

So whether you love matcha or just want to give it a little try, this is one place to visit and enjoy!

Web

http://www.shogoin.co.jp/

Address

2 Chome-218 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862

Opening Hours