In my journey through Japan, I’ve discovered that coffee culture here is as rich and nuanced as its famous tea ceremonies. But one café stands above the rest in historical significance—Mikado Coffee.
Let me first share the short video I took talking with the Store Manager Mr. Yanagisawa Sato.
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Founded in 1948 in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, this coffee house has been a cornerstone of Japan’s specialty coffee scene for decades. More than just a café, it is a cultural touchstone where history, quality, and passion converge in every cup.
Stepping inside Mikado Coffee’s flagship store, I was immediately transported to a different time, where the scent of freshly roasted beans lingered in the air, and the walls whispered stories of Japan’s evolving coffee culture.
So, is this just another coffee shop, or is there something truly special about Mikado Coffee?
I had to find out for myself—and what I uncovered was a deep, flavourful journey into the roots of one of Japan’s most cherished coffee brands.
Well, let me take you on this journey.
Brewing Tradition: How Mikado Coffee Redefined Japan’s Coffee Culture
As I explored Japan’s vibrant café culture, one name stood out—Mikado Coffee. Founded in 1948, it wasn’t just another coffee shop; it was a revolution. At a time when instant coffee and tea dominated, Mikado introduced freshly roasted, high-quality coffee, setting the stage for Japan’s now-thriving coffee culture.
Roasting its own beans in-house, it became a pioneer of kissaten culture, where coffee wasn’t just a drink but an experience. The aroma, the craftsmanship, the tradition—it all came together in each cup. What started as a post-war experiment became a beloved institution, shaping Japan’s modern coffee obsession.
The Iconic Entrance of Mikado Coffee – A Gateway to Japan’s Rich Coffee Heritage
Stepping into History: The Atmosphere of Mikado Coffee Nihonbashi
Stepping into Mikado Coffee’s Nihonbashi location feels like stepping back in time. This isn’t just a café—it’s a living remnant of Tokyo’s post-war coffee culture. The warm wooden interiors, vintage décor, and the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans create a space that whispers stories of a bygone era.
Here, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience wrapped in nostalgia. Customers don’t just come for a cup; they come to soak in the atmosphere, to relive a time when Japan’s coffee culture was just beginning to take shape.
A Nostalgic Escape – The Timeless Interior of Mikado Coffee Nihonbashi
Mikado Coffee’s Karuizawa Escape: A Sip of Serenity
In my journey through Japan, I’ve found that coffee is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. And nowhere is this more evident than at Mikado Coffee’s Karuizawa store. Nestled in the cool mountain air, this café is a sanctuary for coffee lovers.
You’ll notice the long queue when you arrive, a testament to its legendary status. The town’s crisp breeze, the scent of freshly brewed coffee, and the serene backdrop of the Japanese Alps make every sip unforgettable. Here, time slows down, and each cup is a quiet moment of perfection in the heart of nature.
A Perfect Pairing – Mikado Coffee’s Signature Brew and Moca Soft Cup
The Coffee Bar: Watching the Masters at Work
One of the highlights of Mikado Coffee is the dedication of its baristas, who prepare each cup with a level of craftsmanship rarely seen today. The open coffee bar invites visitors to watch the brewing process up close, whether it’s a hand-poured drip coffee, a siphon brew, or an espresso made on vintage machines. The experience of seeing the coffee being made adds an extra layer of appreciation for each sip.
Craftsmanship in Motion – The Heart of Mikado Coffee’s Brewing Experience
John Lennon’s Favorite Coffee Spot
Mikado Coffee isn’t just famous among coffee lovers—it has rockstar approval too.Yes, that’s right: John Lennon was a regular at the Karuizawa branch. During his summers in Japan with Yoko Ono and their son, Sean, Lennon would visit the café frequently, drawn to its intimate atmosphere and impeccable coffee. It is said that he particularly enjoyed Mikado Coffee’s Mandheling blend, a rich, earthy coffee with deep flavor that matched his introspective personality.
Knowing that a music legend once sat here, sipping on the very same coffee I was enjoying, added a special charm to my visit.
Signature Drinks: Experiencing Mikado’s Iconic Brews
Stepping into Mikado Coffee, I knew there was one thing I couldn’t leave without—a taste of their legendary signature drinks. With decades of history poured into every cup, these brews have become more than just coffee; they’re a timeless experience.
First, there’s the Mandheling Coffee—deep, bold, and earthy, with a richness that lingers long after the last sip. It’s the kind of coffee that demands you slow down, take it in, and appreciate its layers of flavor. Then, there’s the Moca Soft Cup, a smooth, chocolatey indulgence that feels like a warm embrace in a cup. Gentle yet flavorful, it’s the perfect pairing for a quiet afternoon.
These aren’t just drinks—they’re a taste of history, craftsmanship, and tradition. And as I savored my cup, I finally understood why Mikado Coffee’s blends have captivated customers for generations.
The Menu: More Than Just Coffee
At Mikado Coffee, a perfect cup isn’t complete without the right pairing. A buttery croissant, crisp and airy, melts effortlessly into the warmth of a freshly brewed Mandheling. A slice of Japanese-style cake, delicate and lightly sweet, enhances the smoothness of a Moca Soft Cup.
Locals know the secret—whether it’s a quick morning bite or a leisurely afternoon treat, the café’s pastries and light meals turn every visit into a moment to savor. Because here, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience best enjoyed, one sip, one bite at a time.
A Glimpse into Tradition – The Menu at Mikado Coffee
The Emperor’s Visit: A Café Fit for Royalty
Not many cafés can say they’ve served royalty, but Mikado Coffee holds that rare honor. Among its cherished memories, one stands out—a visit from the wife of the Japanese Emperor, forever captured in a framed photograph on the wall.
It’s more than just an image; it’s a testament to Mikado’s legacy, a place where history and coffee intertwine. To have graced the imperial palate is no small feat, further cementing Mikado Coffee’s status as a true cultural icon in Japan—one where every cup carries a story worth savoring.
Signature Drinks: Mandheling & Moca Soft Cup
At Mikado Coffee, two legendary brews have stood the test of time—each with a story to tell. The Mandheling Coffee, sourced from North Sumatra, Indonesia, is an earthy, full-bodied blend known for its smooth texture and lingering bittersweet finish. With hints of dark chocolate and spices, it’s a coffee that feels deep, complex, and rich in history.
We also carry coffee from Mandheling (check it out here), so I knew that the area is supreme for their coffee, and was curious to taste the difference.
For something more delicate, the Moca Soft Cup offers a velvety, chocolatey smoothness that’s comforting yet flavorful. It’s a gentle brew, designed for those who love a well-balanced cup without overpowering bitterness. Its creamy mouthfeel makes it the perfect companion to Mikado Coffee’s selection of pastries.
Whether you prefer the boldness of Mandheling or the soft embrace of Moca, these signature drinks capture the essence of Mikado Coffee—tradition, craftsmanship, and an unforgettable coffee experience.
A Community Café: Conversations and Stories Over Coffee
Step into Mikado Coffee, and you’ll notice something different—no one’s in a rush. Conversations flow, laughter lingers, and customers settle in as if they’ve found a second home.
This isn’t just a café; it’s a community, where regulars have been coming for years—some, for decades. The baristas, many of whom have been here just as long, greet them by name, already knowing their favorite brew. It’s this warmth, this familiarity, that makes Mikado more than just a coffee shop. It’s a place where coffee isn’t just served—it’s shared, one story at a time.
A Corner of Connection – The Heart of Mikado Coffee’s Community
The Timeless Appeal: What Makes Customers Keep Coming Back?
In a world where coffee trends come and go, Mikado Coffee stands unwavering. There are no flashy gimmicks, no seasonal fads—just consistently good coffee brewed with care and tradition.
Its secret? Staying true to its roots. While Japan’s coffee culture evolves, Mikado remains a timeless retreat where the focus has never shifted from quality and passion. This dedication keeps locals and travelers returning, year after year, drawn not by trends but by something far rarer—a café that feels like stepping back in time, where every cup tells a story of heritage and craftsmanship.
A Quiet Retreat – The Timeless Charm of Mikado Coffee’s Outdoor Seating
The Craft of Pouring: A Ritual at Mikado Coffee
Watching a Mikado Coffee barista at work is like witnessing a carefully choreographed ritual. Every movement—the measured pour, the slow bloom of the grounds, the patient extraction—is done with precision, like a Japanese tea ceremony in motion.
There’s no rush, no shortcuts—just pure craftsmanship, honoring the time-honored methods that define Mikado’s legacy. This isn’t just brewing; it’s an art form, one that ensures every cup carries the depth, richness, and soul of truly artisanal coffee.
Not all coffee beans are created equal—and Mikado Coffee knows it well. Sourcing only premium, single-origin beans, Mikado ensures that every sip is a reflection of quality and tradition. Their most famous offering, Mandheling from Sumatra, carries a rich, earthy depth that sets it apart.
The Legendary Coffee Beans: Mikado’s Sourcing & Selection
Not all coffee beans are created equal—and Mikado Coffee knows it well. Sourcing only premium, single-origin beans, Mikado ensures that every sip is a reflection of quality and tradition. Their most famous offering, Mandheling from Sumatra, carries a rich, earthy depth that sets it apart.
But the secret isn’t just in the beans—it’s in the roast. Unlike mass-produced coffee, Mikado roasts in small batches, preserving the beans’ natural flavors and textures. Each cup is more than just coffee; it’s a journey from the farm to the cup, brewed with passion and expertise.
A Showcase of Excellence – Mikado Coffee’s Premium Beans and Specialty Blends
The Legacy Continues
With flagship stores in Tokyo, a beloved Karuizawa retreat, and a thriving online presence, Mikado Coffee continues to uphold its tradition of excellence. Their online store now allows coffee lovers across Japan to order their favorite blends and experience Mikado’s craftsmanship from the comfort of home.
As I took my final sip at Mikado Coffee’s Nihonbashi shop, I couldn’t help but reflect on the layers of history and passion infused in each cup.
Mikado Coffee isn’t just a café—it’s an experience, a journey through time, a sip of nostalgia, and a reminder that true craftsmanship never fades.
So, if you ever find yourself in Tokyo or Karuizawa, don’t just pass by—step inside, take a sip, and become part of its timeless story.
A Timeless Icon – The Historic Storefront of Mikado Coffee
Visit Mikado Coffee
Mikado Coffee
@mikado_coffee_1948
1 Chome-12-15 Nihonbashimuromachi,
Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0022, Japan
+81332410530
Have you visited Mikado Coffee before? Share your experience in the comments!
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About the author
Kei Nishida
Author, CEO Dream of Japan
Certification: PMP, BS in Computer Science
Education: Western Washington University
Kei Nishida is a passionate Japanese tea and coffee connoisseur, writer, and the founder and CEO of Japanese Coffee Co. and Japanese Green Tea Co., both part of Dream of Japan.
His journey began with a mission to introduce the world to the unparalleled quality of Japanese green tea. Through Japanese Green Tea Co., he established the only company that sources premium tea grown in nutrient-rich sugarcane soil—an innovation that led to multiple Global Tea Champion awards.
Building on this success and his passion for Japanese craftsmanship, Kei expanded into the world of coffee, pioneering the launch of Japanese Coffee Co., the first company to bring Sumiyaki charcoal-roasted coffee to a global audience. His dedication to authenticity and quality ensures that this traditional Japanese roasting method, once a well-kept secret, is now enjoyed worldwide.
Beyond tea and coffee, Kei has also introduced Japan’s legendary craftsmanship to the world through Japanese Knife Co., making handmade katana-style knives—crafted by a renowned katana maker—available outside Japan for the first time.
Kei’s journey continues as he seeks out and shares the hidden treasures of Japan, one cup and one blade at a time.
Learn more about Kei
