Themed cafes in Kyoto are one of the bucket-list items that you must include when traveling to Japan. As you know, Japan is not only about Tokyo, there are many cities you must visit when traveling to Japan, including Kyoto, the historical cities that embarked on remarkable historical sites and also the capital of Kyoto Prefecture.
Located on Honshu Island, Japan, Kyoto is part of the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto metropolitan area. Apart from being the capital in the old times, Kyoto is also one of the oldest cities in Japan with a history of more than 1,200 years. The western part of Kyoto is surrounded by the Arashiyama hills which are a favorite area for tourism because of their natural views and historical buildings. In Kyoto, there is also Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which provides an insight into Japan's feudal past.
So, if you are interested in knowing more about Japanese history, Kyoto is the best place you must visit in Japan, including its themed cafe collection scattered on the outskirts of the city.
Kyoto is not only known for its beautiful traditions and architecture but also offers an extraordinary coffee and cafe experience. From cafes hidden in small alleys to those offering beautiful views of mountains and rivers, every cafe spot here has its own unique story.
So, here are the top 10 themed cafes you must visit in Kyoto!
Located in Reihou Kaikan 1F, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Cafe la Siesta has a 90s theme with old-school arcade games in every corner of the cafe. A variety of retro music is played live, including 8-bit music which is known to be old-school and has low-quality sound originating from 90s video games that are out of date. 8-bit music takes advantage of that audio to save space on memory-starved consoles.
While enjoying eating and drinking. Cafe la Siesta features a themed space to enjoy the dinner surrounded by Super Mario figurines, Earthbound stickers, and a table-style cocktail arcade cabinet.
Located in downtown Kyoto, Dog Cafe has been established since 1997. With its consistency, Dog Cafe continues to carry a dog theme. You can see dog figures and pictures on the walls, dog-shaped bread, and dog-shaped cookies. Visitors are also allowed to bring their dogs into the cafe. Plus, you also can meet the kawaii owner’s dog.
It’s like visiting the Bengal cats in the middle of the forest, that’s definitely the theme of Kyoto Bengal Cat Forest. Located in the middle of Kyoto, the cafes are full of cute Bengal cats. You can visit them from 10 am to 5 pm every day!
The Kyoto Bengal Cat Forest can fit within 10 people at a time. There are also tricks if you want the cats to sit in your lap; use the scarf, sweater, or something side over your legs. But, please keep in mind that you are forbidden to feed anything to the cats.
Another themed cafes you can visit in Kyoto is Pug Cafe Living Room. You can meet countless cute Pugs there that welcome you. Located in Katsurakawatacho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, the Pug Cafe Living Room is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1 pm to 6 pm. There is also a gift shop with pug themed products that you can bring home. What a wonderful cafe!
The next animal themed cafe you can visit is Kyoto MAMESHIBA Cafe. Yes, the cafe’s theme is all about the fluffy dog, Shiba Inu. Located in Nakanocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, there are many Shiba Inu that can play with you in the cafe. There are also Bengal cats, an owl forest, and a souvenir store to bring home.
Calling to all cat lovers to visit the Cat Cafe Nekokaigi in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto. Even though they are a shelter-supported cat cafe, all the cats are treated very well. The place was so big, clean, and comfortable.
You can visit Cat Cafe Nekokaigi every day from 11 am to 5 pm on weekdays, and 11 am to 6 pm on the weekend. You will also get an extra drink whenever visiting the cafe.
The 90s generation absolutely knows the Snoopy character. If you are one of the fans of Snoopy characters, then the Snoopy Cha-ya cafe is the best place for you to visit in Kyoto. Located in Nishiki Market, Kyoto, you will spot a variety of Snoopy figure collections right at the entrance to welcome you.
You can also visit a souvenir shop on the first floor. There are many exclusive products that you can only buy in Kyoto, Japan in collaboration with Snoopy. Such a fantastic cafe, isn't it?
Another cat-themed cafe you can visit in Kyoto is Cat Apartment Coffee. You will be spoiled with a fusion of modern and traditional Japanese design that will blow your mind away of how beautiful the interior is.
There is a policy to not touch the cats to prevent the cats from avoiding people. But, if the cats climbed on you, then they love you, so it's not a problem. And it works! All the cats were incredibly friendly. By not having people chase after them, they all easily approach and welcome the visitors. What a nice cat cafe to visit!
Located in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Miffy Sakura Kitchen is one of the popular themed cafes in Kyoto. When stepping into the entrance cafe, a kimono-clad Miffy doll will welcome you. Once you enter the cafe, you will see many Miffy kawaii merchandise and snacks, as well as a bakery called Miffy Sakura Bakery.
You will be spoiled with all the cute stuff with Miffy Sakura theme, including how cute all the foods and bakery. You can visit Miffy Sakura Kitchen from 10 am to 6 pm every day.
Rilakkuma was spotted sitting right at the entrance of Rilakkuma Sabo. Located in Arashiyama, the Rilakkuma-themed cafe has two floors, and the first floor is a souvenir shop that you can visit to buy and give to your loved ones.
So, even if you are not able to visit the cafe, you can still visit its souvenir shop. There are also many cute food displays in Rilakkuma Sabo that you can take pictures of. But, it’d also be great if you can have a seat and enjoy the cute Rilakkuma themes on their food.
That’s the top 10 themed cafes in Kyoto that you must visit, at least, once in a lifetime. From the animal cafes to the character-themed cafes, that will be a magnificent journey for you to visit in Kyoto. So, whenever you want to go to Kyoto, Japan, don't forget to book your airline tickets and hotels on Traveloka that will ensure your perfect trip runs smoothly!