How to Enjoy Starbucks in Japan

Starbucks is one of the most popular and successful coffee chains in the world, with over 30,000 stores in more than 80 countries. But did you know that Japan was the first international market for Starbucks, and that it has a special relationship with the brand? In this blog post, I will share with you some tips and insights on how to enjoy Starbucks in Japan, and what makes it different from other countries.

# Starbucks Was the First Coffee Shop of its Kind in Japan

Starbucks opened its first store in Japan in 1996, in the upscale Ginza district of Tokyo. It was the first coffee shop of its kind in Japan, offering a variety of drinks, sizes, milks, and customization options that were not available in the traditional Japanese coffee shops, called kissaten. Kissaten are cozy and quaint places that serve mostly black coffee and simple snacks, and have a nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era (1926-1989). Starbucks introduced a new concept of coffee culture to Japan, where customers could choose their own drink preferences, relax in a spacious and modern environment, and enjoy free Wi-Fi and music.

# Starbucks Was a Place for Everyone

One of the reasons why Starbucks became so popular and successful in Japan is that it was a place for everyone. Unlike kissaten, which tended to attract older customers or specific groups of people, Starbucks welcomed anyone who wanted to enjoy a cup of coffee. Students, office workers, families, couples, tourists, and foreigners could all find their place at Starbucks. Starbucks also offered a variety of seasonal drinks and merchandise that appealed to the Japanese sense of aesthetics and novelty. For example, some of the most popular drinks in Japan are the sakura (cherry blossom) latte in spring, the matcha (green tea) frappuccino in summer, and the pumpkin spice latte in autumn. Starbucks also collaborated with Japanese designers and artists to create unique and limited-edition products, such as mugs, tumblers, cards, and bags.

# What Are the Most Unique and Beautiful Starbucks in Japan?

Another way to enjoy Starbucks in Japan is to visit some of the most unique and beautiful stores in the country. Japan has over 1,600 Starbucks stores, and some of them are located in stunning or historic places that showcase the diversity and beauty of Japan. Here are some examples:

1. - Starbucks Kyoto Nineizaka Yasaka Chaya: This store is located in a traditional Japanese house that is over 100 years old, in the historic district of Kyoto. It has tatami mats, sliding doors, wooden beams, and a garden view. It is also close to the famous Kiyomizu-dera temple and other attractions.
2. - Starbucks Toyama Kansui Park: This store is located in a park that has a beautiful lake and a fountain. It has a glass wall that offers a panoramic view of the water and the surrounding nature. It is also one of the largest Starbucks stores in Japan, with a spacious terrace and seating area.
3. - Starbucks Kobe Kitano Ijinkan: This store is located in a western-style building that was built in 1907, in the Kitano district of Kobe. It has a classic and elegant interior that reflects the history and culture of Kobe as a port city. It also has a balcony that overlooks the cityscape.

# Re-experience the Familiar at a Starbucks in Japan

For travelers, Starbucks is ideal because Japanese language proficiency isn’t required to order, and it’s a familiar sight from home. Menu items are basically the same as other countries, so you can just say your order in English or point at the picture on the menu board. You can also use cashless payment methods such as credit cards or mobile apps. However, you can also re-experience the familiar at a Starbucks in Japan by trying some of the local flavors or products that are only available here. You might be surprised by how different or delicious they are.

I hope this blog post has given you some ideas on how to enjoy Starbucks in Japan. Whether you are looking for a place to relax, work, socialize, or explore, Starbucks can offer you something that suits your needs and preferences. Next time you visit Japan, don't forget to stop by at one of the many Starbucks stores and see for yourself what makes them so special.