Asanoya

Situated in Saga Nakanoshimacho, just steps from Arashiyama's Togetsukyo Bridge, Asanoya is an easy stop while exploring the area, drawing visitors with its wide-ranging tea selection. The drink menu caters to different moods, featuring robust, full-bodied Darjeeling, aromatic lattes that highlight the natural fragrance of the tea leaves, crisp sparkling tea lifted with fresh mint, and fragrant blends like lavender and peach.

The sweets on offer are well suited to accompany a fresh cup. Options range from smooth matcha soft serve balancing sweetness with gentle bitterness to seasonal treats like chestnut ice cream. The kitchen also bakes aromatic matcha cookies, scones, and tarts, alongside matcha pancakes and savory quiches for a quick bite, making the cafe just as handy for a late breakfast or light lunch as for afternoon tea.

Toward the back of the shop, a Japanese-style seating area offers room to stretch out and relax, with options available for both dine-in and takeout. The space tends to fill up past 11:00 in the morning, so aiming for the 10:00 hour right after opening is the best way to savor the tea in quiet surroundings.