COFFEE matsu

17-15 Awadaguchi Toriicho, 左京区 Kyoto, 605-0046, Japan
+81 75-752-3788
$$$ Cafe
(52 Reviews)
Price Range ¥1–1,000

Located in the tranquil surroundings of 左京区 Kyoto, COFFEE matsu is a delightful cafe that draws in both locals and travelers alike with its inviting atmosphere and exceptional coffee. Just a short distance from the scenic Keage Incline, this cozy haven is the perfect refuge for those weary from exploration and in need of a warm beverage and a moment of relaxation.

As you step inside, you are greeted by a minimalistic yet warm decor that immediately instills a sense of calm. With only three tables, the space exudes an intimate charm—perfect for unwinding with a book or catching up with a friend over a cup of meticulously brewed coffee. The friendly owner, while somewhat reserved, radiates hospitality through thoughtful gestures, ensuring every visitor feels welcome. Patrons have described their experiences with him as inherently generous, creating a relaxed, homey vibe that elevates each visit.

COFFEE matsu specializes in a blend of rich coffee drinks and delightful sweets, providing a limited but delightful menu that truly highlights the essence of Kyoto's cafe culture. Customers rave about the quality of the coffee, which has been crafted to near-artistic perfection. It’s a slow process, reminiscent of a Japanese tea ceremony, inviting you to savor each sip—it's not just coffee; it’s an experience. The cafe also offers small snacks that complement their beverage offerings, like delicious soup favorites which have garnered rave reviews for their comforting warmth on a chilly day.

Reviewers consistently note the tranquil ambiance and the opportunity to catch a breather, especially after a day filled with hiking or sightseeing. Customer Tosca Cheng fondly recalls stumbling upon COFFEE matsu during a rainy day in Kyoto, feeling the warmth from the owner and the cafe itself as they provided sustenance after a long bike ride. Visitors like VC Chiu further emphasize its ideal location—a perfect pit stop for tired photographers on the Keage Incline trek.

As you savor the flavors at COFFEE matsu, you're enveloped in the rich culture and heritage of Kyoto, where every cup tells a story. This charming cafe is not just a place to get coffee; it’s an unforgettable stop that adds a special touch to your Kyoto experience. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or simply in need of a sweet treat to recharge, discover the warmth and tranquility of COFFEE matsu—your perfect getaway in the heart of the city.

Service options
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Lunch
Dessert
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Crowd
Tourists
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:30 AM - 05:30 PM

Tuesday

11:30 AM - 05:30 PM

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

11:30 AM - 05:30 PM

Friday

11:30 AM - 05:30 PM

Saturday

11:30 AM - 05:30 PM

Sunday

11:30 AM - 05:30 PM

52 Reviews
Tosca Cheng

30 Sep 2025

I still can't forget the day we went to Nanzenji, it rains a lot, we are all wet, hungry, and pushing bikes with a sleepy baby. We urgently need a place to stay, that's the time we found Coffee Matsu. Owner speaks not much, but you can feel he is so friendly. He tried his best to gave us anything we can eat (actually they are mainly selling only drinks and sweets, no lunch), and the warm inner gave us what we really need that time. If you ask me which is Kyoto's best cafe', I will nominate this hidden gem. Very quite, not many people, very ideal place to spend time peacefully. And it's the spirit of Kyoto.

VC Chiu

23 Sep 2025

Very close to Keage Incline, just take a break when you have already too tired for taking photos. A decent and tidy shop which only have 3 tables inside, you can enjoy a relax afternoon with tasty coffee here.

Kevin Hu

22 Sep 2025

Local coffee shop (cash only) with excellent coffee. We arrived a bit too early to our hotel next door and decided to stop by for a coffee and small snack which was excellent. Very calming cafe.

Nata Fateeva

12 Sep 2025

Very special like a tea ceremony, coffee makes very slow but beautiful

Blake Walker

29 Aug 2025

Beautiful little cafe, very cosy and homey. The owner was amazing and so generous, and the soup was delicious!

Rachel Oda

27 Aug 2025

Ambiance is beautiful cozy and peaceful with nice music. The owner is extremely kind and went above and beyond to care for us and provide us with a great experience. Support this place! We had the red bean soup, blended coffee, and cafe au lait. The red bean soup had a mochi in it which was great! Everything we had was fantastic. The perfect place for a pick me up treat. Can’t recommend this highly enough.

Youdiil Ophinni

19 Jun 2025

Small and cozy place, you can see sakura from the large window. Ice cream zenzai was delightfully refreshing. Grandpa shopkeeper was very nice, he even gave us an extra dessert as a service. We were very glad to found this nice café, while the other ones were closed during 5 PM.

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