Yoshihara

Welcome to “ Yoshihara ” ( instagram.com/yoshihara.coffee ), a stylish café that opened on December 25, 2023, in central Kyoto. Situated in a peaceful residential area, just a 10-minute walk from either Tozai Line – Nijo Station (exit 1) or Nijojo-mae Station (exit 1). Yoshihara is the brainchild of a lovely young couple, Kosuke and Haruna, named after their shared surname. Kosuke brings five years of roasting experience from Kurasu café near Kyoto station, while Haruna honed her skills at the renowned vegan café, Veg Out , near Shichijo Station. Together, they’ve created Yoshihara, focusing on exquisite coffee and homemade scones.

The café is nestled within a renovated kyomachiya, once a traditional house, redesigned by Muramatsu Hidekazu Design ( instagram.com/h.m_de ) , known for their work on Ha Ra , Nishitomiya, Yim Coffee & Crafts , and Brown Eyes Coffee . Although the renovation involved mostly demolishing the interior, key elements of the original kyomachiya, such as mud walls, flooring, and remnants of the old woodwork, including the expansive sliding doors of the cabinets and the wooden framework, were preserved.

The front part of the building underwent partial demolition to create an open canopy, leaving only the entrance area roofed to allow ample light into the café. Replacing the facade are expansive windows that offer a panoramic view of the stylish interior. Upon entry, the spacious kitchen and order counter greet you to the right, while a long bench along the cabinets at the rear provides seating for customers.

The interior boasts a minimalist contemporary design combined with the retro elements of the kyomachiya, creating a refined, spacious atmosphere. One notable feature is the art piece ‘NyoroNyoroBou’ by ‘Itou’ ( instagram.com/itou.uoti ).

The menu is simple yet refined and emphasizes specialty coffee and homemade scones. These delicious scones are served with red bean paste and butter. The café offers various coffee selections but also prides itself on selling their own roasted beans. The coffee is delicious, with a subtle, smooth taste. Paired with the sweet scone, it makes a perfect combination.

Yoshihara is a wonderful cafe run by a super friendly couple that sells delicious coffee and scones in a stylish, relaxing atmosphere and a visit is heavily recommended.