I was searching on Google for a nice spot to enjoy a freshly whisked bowl of matcha in Kyoto and happened upon this newer Japanese tea house. There are a handful of well-established tea houses in Kyoto that have been around for 100+ years, but I was interested in trying a newcomer’s approach.

Interior design

Yugen’s focus is on providing a peaceful place to enjoy a warm cup of tea. Its pared-down interiors allow guests to focus their attention on the wares and tea that adorn the shop. The delicate window dressings soften the light that permeates the space, while also providing a contrast to the raw wall textures, which emulate the ceramics they use and sell.

Tea service

Once you’ve sat down and chosen your tea, you also get to select a chawan from their shelf display behind the counter. This bowl will be yours during your tea service. It was captivating to watch the details of the tea making process. Each movement flowed into another and felt like a well-traveled route. My matcha and wagashi pairing were sublime.

Yugen Kyoto Teahouse is not just a place; it's an experience—a journey into the realm of matcha perfection. This younger teahouse is serving some of the best matcha in Kyoto. Yugen takes pride in sourcing only the finest tea leaves, meticulously cultivated to achieve unparalleled flavor and aroma.

Ceramic shop

When you’ve finished, remember to explore the rest of the space. Walk up one floor and you're in the events area, take a few more stairs up and you've arrived at their well-curated ceramics shop. The ceramics area was newly opened by the time I visited. I could tell from our host’s voice that he was excited to share this extension of Yugen.

There were a number of pieces that connected with me. One in particular is a plate with a rough texture and tiny cracks throughout the surface. This was created by a local female ceramicist who our host explained is a budding artist who he believes will gain popularity in the coming years.

Warmth and Hospitality

One of the most memorable aspects of my visit to Yugen Kyoto Teahouse was the genuine warmth exuded by the staff. They are ambassadors of Japanese hospitality, embodying the concept of omotenashi. Their attentiveness to every detail of the tea ceremony, coupled with their genuine desire to ensure a memorable experience for each guest, left a lasting impression on me.

Final Thoughts

With its minimalist interior, exquisite matcha, and warm hospitality, Yugen embodies the essence of tranquility and refinement. It offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Japanese tea culture, inviting visitors to slow down, savor the moment, and immerse themselves in the age-old ritual of tea appreciation.

Closest transportation:

• Marutamachi subway station (2-min walk)

Nearby suggestions:

• Kyoto Imperial Palace

• Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

• Nijo Castle

Further Reading