For an authentic Kyoto tea experience, Marukyu Koyamaen Teahouse Motoan offers a perfect pairing of premium matcha and traditional sweets. Located in Central Kyoto, this historic tea shop provides a serene, culturally rich retreat for tea aficionados and casual visitors alike.
Historic Tea Masters
Marukyu Koyamaen has been cultivating top-quality tea since the late 1600s. Their premium matcha powders are highly sought after by professional tea masters across Japan. Visitors can taste centuries of expertise in every carefully whisked cup, making it a must-visit destination for authentic Japanese tea culture.
Serene Garden Setting
Tucked away on Nishitouin-dori Street, the entrance is discreetly marked by traditional noren curtains. The front section operates as a retail tea shop, while the back reveals the tranquil teahouse seating area. Guests enjoy their drinks in hushed, reverent tones, accompanied by soft piano music and beautiful views of a lush, traditional Japanese garden.
Signature Menu Items
The teahouse offers an accessible English menu featuring a variety of teas, wagashi (Japanese sweets), and light fare.
- Matcha Sets: Choose between usucha (thin tea) for a lighter, frothy taste, or koicha (thick, paste-like tea) for a robust, highly traditional experience.
- Matcha Roll Cake: A visually stunning and highly popular dessert. It features a vivid green sponge cake filled with both plain and matcha whipped cream, elegantly served with sweet azuki red bean paste.
- Seasonal Treats: During the hot summer months, the menu features kakigori, a refreshing shaved ice dessert sweetened with rich matcha syrup.
- Savory Options: For a light meal, try ochazuke, a comforting dish of hot white rice poured with fragrant tea and served with seasonal pickled vegetables. Takeout matcha soft-serve ice cream is also available at the counter.
Exact Location & Directions
Finding this hidden gem is straightforward with the right directions:
- Arrive at Nijojo-mae Station (Tozai Line) or Karasuma Station (Karasuma/Tozai Lines).
- Exit the station and head west toward Nishitouin-dori Street.
- Walk a few blocks west of the main Karasuma-dori avenue.
- Look for the understated storefront with short noren curtains hanging in the doorway.
- Enter the shop; the retail area is in the front, and the teahouse seating is located at the rear of the building.
Cafe Details
- Name: Marukyu Koyamaen Nishinotoin Tea Shop and Teahouse Motoan (丸久小山園 西洞院店 茶房 元庵)
- English Address: Nishigawa, Oikesagaru, Nishidouin-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
- Japanese Address: 京都府京都市中京区西洞院通御池下ル西側
- Opening Hours: Shop: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM | Teahouse: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Last Order)
- Closed: Wednesdays (open if Wednesday is a national holiday) and during the New Year holiday
- Price Range: Moderate (¥800 – ¥1,500 per person)
- Smoking Policy: 100% Non-Smoking
- Nearest Transport: Short walk from Nijojo-mae Station (Tozai Line) or Karasuma Station
- Reservations: Not accepted (Walk-ins only)
- Outdoor Seating: Not available
- Telephone: 075-223-0909
- Website: Official site available in English
Explore Central Kyoto
Marukyu Koyamaen Motoan is perfectly situated in the heart of Central Kyoto. After enjoying a traditional tea set, visitors can easily walk to Nijo Castle, explore the nearby Imperial Palace, or discover local boutiques. Discover more top-rated places to eat, local nightlife spots, and the best accommodations by checking out our complete Central Kyoto guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between usucha and koicha?
Usucha is thin, frothy matcha that is approachable for beginners. Koicha is a thick, almost paste-like preparation made with more matcha powder and less water. It has a much stronger, more intense flavor and is traditionally shared among guests in formal tea ceremonies. First-time matcha drinkers usually prefer usucha.
Can I eat a full meal at Motoan?
Motoan is primarily a teahouse and dessert cafe, not a full-service restaurant. The only savory option is ochazuke (tea poured over rice with pickles). It is best visited for post-lunch dessert, afternoon tea, or a light snack.
Is Motoan a good place to work or chat loudly?
No. The teahouse is designed as a tranquil, traditional retreat. The atmosphere is very quiet, with guests speaking in hushed tones to the background piano music. It is perfect for reading, relaxing, or quiet conversation, but not suitable for loud chatting or working on a laptop.
Does Marukyu Koyamaen sell tea to take home?
Yes. The front section of the building operates as a retail shop. Visitors can purchase high-quality matcha powders, loose-leaf teas, and traditional tea implements to take home or give as gifts.