Do you like Starbucks? I do—because I love coffee!
Japan has many excellent local coffee chains, but Starbucks holds a special place for me.
Starbucks, the global coffee chain, first arrived in Japan in 1996, opening its very first store in Ginza. This was also Starbucks’ first location outside North America. Today, there are more than 1,800 Starbucks stores across Japan.
What makes Starbucks in Japan unique is how closely it connects with local communities. Many stores are designed to reflect their surroundings, and some are so distinctive that simply visiting them feels like a sightseeing experience. I often go out of my way to stop by a Starbucks when I travel—and in Japan, that’s especially rewarding.
In this article, I’ll introduce some of the most unique and recommended Starbucks stores in Japan.
Is the World’s Best Starbucks in Japan?
The TSUTAYA SHIBUYA Starbucks, located directly in front of Shibuya Crossing, has reopened after renovations and continues to attract visitors from around the world. It is famous for having the highest sales per store globally, a testament to its unbeatable location and constant crowds.
From the seating area inside the store, you can once again enjoy views of Shibuya Crossing—one of Tokyo’s most iconic and energetic sights. Watching the sea of people cross the intersection while sipping coffee is a uniquely Tokyo experience.
This Starbucks is not just a place to grab a drink, but a destination in itself, making it a must-visit stop for first-time visitors to Tokyo as well as repeat travelers.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo
Located in Nakameguro, Tokyo, this is one of only six Starbucks Reserve Roasteries in the world. It opened in 2019 as the fifth Roastery globally.
The building’s modern design blends refined craftsmanship with elements inspired by Japanese nature and aesthetics. Here, you can enjoy exclusive food and drinks available only at this location.
The Roastery sits along the Meguro River, which is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. It gets extremely crowded on weekends and during peak seasons, and numbered entry tickets are sometimes required—but it’s well worth the visit.
Regional Landmark Stores
Starbucks Regional Landmark Stores are specially designed locations built in architecturally or culturally significant places throughout Japan. These stores are created to harmonize with their surroundings—often using historic buildings or traditional design elements.
Each one offers a unique atmosphere, making them very different from standard Starbucks locations.
My Favorite Regional Landmark Stores
Hirosaki Park Store (Aomori)
Originally built in 1917 as the official residence of an army division commander, this wooden building beautifully blends Japanese and Western architectural styles.
Located right in front of Hirosaki Park, famous for its cherry blossoms and castle, it’s the perfect stop during a sightseeing walk—especially in spring.
Kawagoe Kanetsuki Dori Store (Saitama)
The “Toki no Kane” (Bell of Time) is a symbol of Koedo Kawagoe, and this Starbucks is designed to blend seamlessly into the historic streetscape nearby.
The store features an interior garden and terrace seating, making it a relaxing place to enjoy a cup of coffee while soaking in the atmosphere of this traditional town.
👉 For more information about Kawagoe, see this article:
Toyama Kansui Park Store (Toyama)
Located in Toyama Kansui Park, this Starbucks gained international attention after winning the Store Design Award in 2008 and has often been called “the most beautiful Starbucks in the world.”
Its simple design blends perfectly with the surrounding landscape, and large windows offer views of the park’s symbolic Tenmon Bridge. It’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy coffee surrounded by nature.
Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Store (Hyogo)
This two-story wooden house was originally built in 1907 during the Meiji Era and was once owned by an American. After being damaged in the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995, it was carefully restored through cooperation between Kobe City and the private sector.
The surrounding Kitano Ijinkan area is filled with historic Western-style homes once used by foreign merchants and diplomats, making this Starbucks a perfect stop during a leisurely neighborhood stroll.
Book & Café Starbucks
In Japan, many Starbucks stores are attached to bookstores, and some are even located inside public libraries. These locations allow visitors to enjoy coffee while reading—a perfect combination.
One standout is Tagajo City Library in Miyagi Prefecture, which combines a library, bookstore, and Starbucks in one space. It’s popular with locals and also a pleasant stop for travelers.
Starbucks Tea & Café
STARBUCKS Tea & Café stores focus on tea-based beverages made with TEAVANA, a premium tea brand known for high-quality tea leaves and botanical ingredients.
As of 2026, there are over 20 Tea & Café locations in Japan, offering a refreshing alternative for tea lovers.
Starbucks Reserve
Starbucks Reserve coffees are rare, high-quality beans produced in small quantities and available only at selected stores worldwide.
At these locations, beans are ground per order, and each cup is carefully brewed using specialized equipment. You can also purchase the beans to enjoy at home. Many stores in Japan are designated as Starbucks Reserve locations—use the official store locator to find one near you:
Have you found your favorite Starbucks store in Japan?
Enjoy your coffee ☕🇯🇵