When I was a university student in Paris, I was completely captivated by coffee after my first taste of espresso. In Japan, however, espresso has long been relatively uncommon. When people talk about “coffee” here, they usually mean drip coffee. It wasn’t until I traveled to several other countries that I realized just how different coffee cultures can be around the world.
Today, I drink several cups of black drip coffee a day—it has become an essential part of my daily routine. As a devoted coffee lover, I’d like to introduce Japan’s unique coffee culture and recommend some places in Tokyo where you can enjoy an excellent cup of coffee.
Japan’s Coffee Shop Boom
Japan experienced a major coffee shop boom in the 1970s, which peaked around 1981. At that time, more than 150,000 coffee shops are said to have existed across the country. As competition intensified, many shops began to differentiate themselves by focusing on quality rather than quantity.
They paid close attention to brewing methods, offered a wide selection of beans, and prepared each cup to order. This dedication turned coffee-making into a form of hospitality, rather than a simple transaction.
The most common brewing method in Japan is drip coffee, in which hot water is poured through ground coffee held in a paper filter. Another distinctive method is flannel drip, which was developed in Japanese coffee shops. Using a cloth filter allows more coffee oils to pass through, resulting in a smoother texture and gentle sweetness.
Drip Coffee and Japanese Craftsmanship
In Japan, drip coffee is often prepared through a careful, almost ritualistic process—sometimes compared to the Japanese tea ceremony. The barista’s precise movements and attention to detail reflect a deep respect for craftsmanship and flavor.
This approach resonates with the Japanese temperament, which values patience and refinement. While many people now brew coffee at home using coffee makers, hand-dripped coffee remains an important part of Japanese coffee culture, whether enjoyed alone or served to guests.
Easy Ways to Enjoy Coffee in Japan
Convenience Store Coffee
If you’re craving a quick cup of drip coffee, Japan has you covered. For around 130 yen (about $1), you can buy freshly brewed coffee at almost any convenience store—or even at McDonald’s. The quality is surprisingly good for the price, and the convenience is unmatched.
Coffee consumption in Japan increased significantly in the 2010s, largely due to the rise of affordable and tasty convenience store coffee.
Drip Bags
Drip bags are another Japanese innovation. Each bag contains ground coffee for a single cup and is designed to sit directly on your mug—just pour in hot water. They’re inexpensive and widely available at convenience stores, supermarkets, and specialty cafés, many of which sell their own original blends.
They’re perfect for enjoying coffee in your hotel room or taking a taste of Japan home with you.
Canned Coffee
Canned coffee is a uniquely Japanese phenomenon, first introduced around 1970 and popularized through vending machines. While canned coffee is still widely available—now often in PET bottles—the market has been declining as convenience store coffee has become more popular.
Recommended Coffee Shops in Tokyo
Tajimaya Coffee Shop Main Branch (Shinjuku)
This long-established coffee shop is located near the entrance of Omoide Yokocho, just outside the west exit of Shinjuku Station. Founded in the 1940s shortly after World War II, it is steeped in history.
The beans are carefully selected, roasted in-house, and brewed using a flannel drip method. The nostalgic, retro atmosphere is as much a part of the experience as the coffee itself.
Café Veloce
Café Veloce is a popular chain known for its affordable prices and relaxed atmosphere. While the coffee itself is straightforward, the dessert menu sets it apart. Coffee floats—iced coffee topped with soft-serve ice cream—and coffee jelly are especially popular.
You’ll often find Café Veloce near major train stations throughout Tokyo, making it a convenient stop during sightseeing.
Hoshino Coffee
Hoshino Coffee is a full-service café with spacious interiors and a calm, refined atmosphere. Each cup of coffee is hand-dripped and served individually. Their signature item is thick, fluffy soufflé pancakes, which take time to prepare but are well worth the wait.
The café also offers a full meal menu, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely lunch or afternoon break. In addition to locations near major stations, Hoshino Coffee has large standalone shops in residential neighborhoods.
The chain has expanded to Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Taiwan—so you may even find one near your home city.
Enjoy Coffee Like a Local in Japan
Whether you’re sipping hand-dripped coffee in a quiet Tokyo café or grabbing a quick cup from a convenience store, coffee is an easy and authentic way to experience daily life in Japan.
☕ Enjoy your coffee journey in Japan!