For an authentic Kyoto tea experience, Saryo Housen stands out as one of the city’s finest traditional teahouses. While a convenient branch exists inside Kyoto Station, seeking out the original location north of Shimogamo Shrine rewards visitors with a truly immersive, historic atmosphere and exceptional seasonal sweets.
Traditional Garden Setting
The original Saryo Housen is housed in a classic, traditional building featuring a tatami mat-lined dining room. Before even tasting the menu, guests are treated to a stunning Japanese-style garden. The meticulously landscaped grounds feature lush slopes of green moss, elegant maple trees, classic pines, and beautiful Andromeda flower bushes, creating a deeply tranquil environment.
Signature Matcha & Wagashi
Sipping premium matcha while gazing out at a traditional garden is a quintessential Kyoto experience. The menu offers a wide array of Japanese desserts, ranging from finely sculpted seasonal wagashi (crafted from beans, rice, and sugar) to refreshing iced matcha drinks that cater to modern tastes.
The absolute must-try item is the warabimochi. This exquisite wagashi is made from premium bracken fern starch. The texture is entirely unique—somewhere between a fresh marshmallow and a traditional rice cake. It is lightly sticky, yet remarkably smooth, stretchy, and pliant. Because every batch is made fresh to order, it represents the pinnacle of this specific Japanese dessert.
Exact Location & Directions
Because the original shop is located in a quieter residential area, it requires a short bus ride rather than a simple subway walk. Here is the easiest route to find it:
- Arrive at Kitaojo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line.
- Exit the station and head to the local bus terminal.
- Board Kyoto City Bus 204 or 206.
- Ride the bus for a few stops and alight at the Shimogamo Higashihonmachi bus stop.
- From the bus stop, it is a short 3-minute walk to the traditional storefront.
Cafe Details
- Name: Saryo Housen (茶寮 宝泉)
- English Address: 25 Shimogamo-nishitakagi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
- Japanese Address: 京都府京都市左京区下鴨西高木町25
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily)
- Closed: Wednesdays and Thursdays
- Price Range: Moderate (¥800 – ¥1,500 per person)
- Smoking Policy: 100% Non-Smoking
- Nearest Transport: 3-minute walk from Shimogamo Higashihonmachi Bus Stop (Bus 204/206 from Kitaoji Station)
- Reservations: Not accepted (Walk-ins only)
- Telephone: 075-712-1270
- Website: Official site available in Japanese
Explore Central Kyoto
Saryo Housen is situated in the culturally rich northern part of Central Kyoto, just steps from the UNESCO World Heritage Shimogamo Shrine. After enjoying tea and sweets, visitors can take a peaceful walk through the shrine’s sacred forest, explore the nearby Kamogawa River, or continue sightseeing in the downtown area. Discover more top-rated places to eat, local attractions, and the best accommodations by checking out our complete Central Kyoto guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between the original Saryo Housen and the Kyoto Station branch?
While the Kyoto Station branch offers convenience for travelers, the original location features a traditional tatami-mat dining room and a breathtaking private Japanese garden. The original branch provides a much more authentic, immersive, and quiet cultural experience.
What exactly is warabimochi?
Warabimochi is a traditional Japanese confection made from bracken fern starch rather than rice flour. It has a unique, jelly-like texture that is soft, slightly sticky, and very smooth. It is typically dusted with roasted soybean flour (kinako) and served with sweet black sugar syrup.
What days is Saryo Housen closed?
The teahouse is closed every Wednesday and Thursday. If a national holiday falls on one of these days, the shop may open, but it is always recommended to verify hours in advance.
Do I have to sit on the floor at Saryo Housen?
The main dining room at the original location features traditional tatami mat seating, which requires sitting on the floor. However, experiencing a meal in a traditional tatami room is considered a highly authentic and memorable part of visiting a historic Kyoto teahouse.