Tokyo is a city that has what some might call a mature coffee culture. Having a good cup of coffee is part of their daily routine for many of Tokyo’s denizens, whether it’s a workday or a holiday.
As might be expected in a city of its enormity, Tokyo has countless shops hidden throughout ranging from small independent cafes to well known chain stores.
Part of the attraction is not only the hot cups brewing, but also some delicious meals available. Even with the wide variety of coffee shops available across the city, four areas have emerged as major coffee zones. These areas have a high concentration of great coffee shops like Kiyosumi-Shirakawa’s BLUE BOTTLE COFFEE – a brand imported from the U.S. – and Shibuya, where fashion, pop culture, and coffee converge around Yoyogi Park in a satisfying mix of all things hip.
Let’s take a tour of these four coffee hot spots, and check out our top ten can’t-miss Tokyo coffee shops!
First stop on the Tokyo Coffee Map: Kuramae
1. Nui. HOSTEL & BAR LOUNGE: Coffee, Conversation, and Comfort
Nui. HOSTEL&BAR LOUNGE is a highly rated and popular youth hostel located in the Kuramae area. Not only does it provide comfortable accommodations, but also features a café on its open and inviting first floor.
The coffee beans and brewing method used here are from Tokyo’s well-known ONIBUS COFFEE shop, and the flavorful hot latte pairs perfectly with the delicious bread and food also available.
No matter what time of day you’re there, Nui. HOSTEL&BAR LOUNGE is a great place to listen to soft music, relax, and have a good time with travellers from all over the world!
Nui. HOSTEL & BAR LOUNGE
Taito-ku Kuramae 2-14-13, Tokyo-to
Kuramae
2. LEAVES COFFEE APARTMENT: The Little Shop on the Corner
Leaves Coffee Apartment is located on a corner near a bridge spanning the Sumida River. To some, the shop’s plain concrete exterior may seem uninviting at first glance, but the sweet coffee aroma will certainly have you stepping up to the shop’s convenient take-out window.
With beans sourced from Oslo, Norway’s popular Fuglen coffee shop, the shop specializes in espresso and drip coffee, offering four unique flavors. Although the take out window makes Leaves Coffee Apartment’s location perfect for enjoying the scenery along the Sumida River, the shop itself is also a cozy place to enjoy a chat with friends.
A Day in Kuramae: 5 Unique Shops in Tokyo's 'Brooklyn'
LEAVES COFFEE APARTMENT
111-0043 2-2-10 Fine Life Komagata 105
Directions: 1 minute from Kuramae Station (Toei Subway Oedo Line) Exit A7
Hours: Tues. – Sun. 10:00 – 18:00 (Lunch 11:00 – 15:00), closed Mon.
Next Stop: Kiyosumi-Shirakawa
3. iki ESPRESSO TOKYO: New Zealand Breakfast in Tokyo
Already popular in New Zealand, Australia, Europe and the United States, the “flat white” trend is also sweeping across Tokyo.
Kiyosumi-Shirakawa’s iki ESPRESSO TOKYO has quickly become a THE place for a flat white in Tokyo. There the owners first introduced New Zealand's coffee and brunch culture to Japan.
Similar in taste to cappuccino…
