Kaikado Café

Across the street from the beautiful Shosei-En Garden (Kikoku-tei) and on a 5 minute walk from Shichijo station is the lovely Kaikado cafe and shop. Kaikado is one of the more unique cafes in Kyoto with an interesting history and a distinctive interior. The building itself was constructed back in 1927, and was a former tram warehouse/garage and administration office. After the renovation the building was recognized as a registered cultural property. The property was then bought by Kaikado, a 140 year old family-run company known for their airtight tin “chazutsu” tea cannisters and asahiyaki ceramics. Kaikado cafe opened its doors in 2018 and has been a popular attraction for Japanese and foreign travelers.

The building consists of two floors with the café on the ground floor including a garden terrace in the back and a small shop on the second floor as well as partially along the stairwell, absolutely dont forget to visit the shop because that in its own is a lovely display. Since Kaikado is situated in a former garage/workshop for trams, remnants are still apparent in it’s interior. Remains of the garage, from faint chalk writings on the wall, shutter marks on the façade, to the door handles of the entrance door. All giving a glimpse to its former past.

The renovated interior of the café is stylish and combines retro with contemporary design. The walls and the floor are entirely concrete with lovely wood shelving and furniture. The showpiece however is the beautiful lattice kitchen counter.

The menu is a bit on the expensive side and consists mainly of Japanese sweets like ( monaka , red bean paste cookies, buttered toast and more) in relatively small portions. For drinks they have a variety of teas, coffee and sparkling water.

Kaikado is a beautiful cafe/shop located in an area with various tourist attractions. If you are interested in architecture or interior design this café is definitely recommended.

For bigger photos click here.