As Japan's largest tea producing prefecture, Shizuoka has numerous spots where visitors can appreciate the much-loved beverage. One such place is Kimikura Cafe, located in the city of Kakegawa. Kakegawa is known for their high quality tea, and Kimikura Cafe showcases that with a range of eats and drinks to enjoy.
The cafe itself is modern and inviting, with plenty of windows letting in natural light and an emphasis on bringing the outdoors in. There are a number of potted plants scattered around the premises, and even some vines and other plants hanging from the roof beams.
When we visited, my husband chose the regular matcha iced latte, and I opted for a seasonal lemonade style drink that incorporated both the flavors of matcha and locally sourced Hamamatsu tangerines. If you visit the cafe in the warmer months I'd recommend it as a must try - it was so refreshing!
As for the sweets on offer, they also incorporate the flavors of tea. We enjoyed a matcha cream filled pastry scroll - similar to a cannoli - and a slice of matcha cake. The cake was rich and dense, and the scroll was light and fluffy. I recommend getting one of each and splitting them with whoever you're visiting with!
The cafe is open from 9 am until 7pm from Monday to Saturday, and from 9 am until 6 pm on Sundays. Do bear in mind that the cafe is closed every Tuesday if you're making a special trip.
