Yamanekoken

39-6 Tojiin Kitamachi, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8346, Japan
+81 75-462-6004
$$$ Cafe
(284 Reviews)
Price Range ¥1,000–2,000

Welcome to Yamanekoken, a charming café nestled in the picturesque Kita Ward of Kyoto. This delightful spot, named after a beloved children’s storybook, is not just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a cozy retreat where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality. Just a stone's throw away from serene rock garden temples, Yamanekoken is the perfect pit stop for weary travelers seeking a delightful experience amidst their sightseeing adventures.

As you step inside, the café's whimsical decor sets the mood for a casual and enjoyable dining experience. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with sweet temptations, inviting you to explore their menu that boasts an array of offerings from hearty breakfasts to irresistible desserts. One of their standout dishes, the “粗挽きソーセージとグリーンサラダのバターワッフルと珈琲のセット” (butter waffle with grilled sausage and green salad), delivers a symphony of flavors—crispy waffles laced with the richness of Canadian maple syrup, accompanied by quality hand-dripped coffee that promises to warm your soul. At just JP¥1,670, it's a delightful blend of quality and value that makes the experience worth it.

Patrons rave about the “グリルドベーコンエッグワッフル,” a perfect fusion of fluffy waffles topped with savory bacon and eggs—a breakfast lover's dream! And whether you're here for a morning treat or an afternoon coffee, don't miss out on their acclaimed matcha latte, which many, like returning customer Sara Pierson, hail as the best in Japan.

Customer reviews paint a vivid picture of the café's allure. Alicia Glassmeyer recounts a perfect post-temple visit stop where she indulged in a full lunch, complimenting the café’s excellent service and vibrant atmosphere. Similarly, Toh Hun Khim shares the joy of discovering the café while hiking, declaring their caramel and banana waffles the best he’s ever tasted. Each review echoes a common sentiment: Yamanekoken is more than a café; it’s a delightful escape into a world where food and ambiance unite flawlessly.

So, if you're searching for a whimsical café that delivers on both flavors and charm, allow Yamanekoken to weave its magic into your Kyoto adventure. Just remember to bring cash, as this gem embraces a more traditional payment approach, ensuring you focus on what matters most—enjoying every delectable bite and sip. Whether you're starting your day or winding down after a day of exploration, Yamanekoken is ready to welcome you with open arms and mouthwatering offerings.

Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Organic dishes
Quick bite
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Romantic
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Payments
Cash only
Credit cards
Children
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
On-site parking
Openings Hours

Monday

11:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

Closed

Friday

11:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 06:00 PM

284 Reviews
Alicia Glassmeyer

15 Aug 2025

This is a lovely cafe with excellent service and food. We visited after seeing the nearby temples because we were in need of a hot beverage and ended ordering a full lunch, too. The prices are a little high, but the quality of food and service matches. They serve a quality coffee, too.

Sara Pierson

08 Aug 2025

My favorite cafe in Kyoto! We always make a point to stop when we are in the city. In my opinion they make the best matcha latte in Japan! Their breakfasts are very good and I recently tried the hamburg stew which was so dreamy on a cold day. I highly reccomend! I also highly reccomend any of their cookies or desserts. Don't forget to bring cash as they do not take credit cards. The menus have English on them so it makes it easy to order got tourists. The staff is always very friendly. I can not wait to go back!

Toh Hun Khim

19 Jul 2025

Chanced upon the cafe while taking a pitstop in the midst of hiking to one of the shrine that's open at night. Also partially due to the fact that bus 56 going there did not turn up on time. Waffles with caramel and banana are best I have ever eaten. Highly recommended.

Alexandr Vavroš

19 Jul 2025

This must be the most expensive cafe I've been to! However, the desserts were great, the place looks very nice and the ladies who served us were lovely!

Guy

05 Jul 2025

Whimsical, casual and charming, this hidden gem is worth finding. Just across the street from the beautiful rock garden temple, this restaurant is named after a children's story book, features waffles and desserts, and has great coffee. A perfect stop for a sight seeing day.

Mustafa özcan

25 Jun 2025

Pearpudding speciality is amazing Kind staff and good serving

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