Fans of Kirby who are in Japan for the holiday season will be delighted to hear that the Kirby-themed pop-up shop “PLAYFUL KIRBY” finally opened at Laforet Harajuku today and will run until Boxing Day.

When playing Super Smash Bros. there’s no other character I’ll pick but Kirby. If you love Kirby as much as I do, then you’ll be waiting no time at all to head to PLAYFUL KIRBY like I did after hearing that they’re selling a whole range of original and exclusive merchandise the likes of which Nintendo players have never seen before.

The store itself is located on the second floor of Laforet Harajuku in Harajuku, Tokyo. You’ll spot it instantly with the Kirby-pink text wrapped around the walls of the entrance.

Kirby’s pink colour fills the entire shop floor. Upon entering you’ll spot all the different items on offer, including fashion items, as well as various photo spots featuring Kirby’s cute face.

There’s even a tiny Kirby door so that he can get into the shop! Be sure to find it if you visit.

The original version of this pop-up shop first appeared two years ago, and enjoyed visits not only from game fans, both kids and adults who had never heard of Kirby before, or who had heard of him but never played the games. The fashion line-up was a result of fan demand to enjoy Kirby in a variety of different ways. A visit to PLAYFUL KIRBY is like being inhaled into his Dream Land.

PLAYFUL KIRBY is centred on two collaborations. This includes a teaming-up with popular illustrator Shogo Sekine. When this pop-up shop was conceived, Shogo Sekine was at the top of the list for collaborations with the staff in charge. The staff agreed that mixing the worlds of Kirby and Sekine together would give rise to some seriously wonderful results. After much internal discussion and talks with Sekine, a whole line of merchandise was created.

The items feature Sekine’s stylised typography, symbols, shapes and so on. Their subtle design means they can be used as both everyday items and nerdy fan items. They’re stylish while retaining the cute aspects of Kirby.

The following items are the number one most recommended pieces of merchandise to pick up as chosen by the PLAYFUL KIRBY staff.

Tote Bags Ver. 2 PINK STRIPE – ¥2,800

These tote bags feature gradations of Kirby pinks. This design is also featured on a t-shirt you can pick up too. They’re both made with high quality fabrics.

Sacoche Pouches (2 Designs) – ¥2,300 Each

The “Copy” written on the sacoche pouches refers to Kirby’s ability to copy his opponents’ abilities and appearance. This design is also included on a variety of other merchandise pieces like a smartphone case and more.

Blanket – ¥3,800

At first glance, this blanket just looks like a stylish blanket with a floral print, but if you look closely you’ll spot Kirby blended in with the design. A perfect choice for the coming winter season.

Plush Toy – ¥2,300

Kirby had intended to put on his stylish t-shirt ready to go out, but he ended up looking just adorable.

The store’s second collaboration is with Converse Stars, also showcasing an assortment of cute and fun items.

Cap – ¥5,800 / Long T-Shirt (Medium/Large) – ¥7,800 Each

Show off your love of Kirby with some simple but stylish unisex Kirby attire.

Hand Towel – ¥1,200

Another must-get item is this hand towel which keeps the roundness of Kirby’s head. Use at home or take it out with you!

Stickers (3 Designs) – ¥500 Each

Get your hands on these Laforet Harajuku-exclusive stickers with designs so cute you’ll want to collect them all!

I spoke with the person in charge of the pop-up shop about the future of Kirby outside of the video game, and they told me that they plan to have more pop-up shops like this and open the opportunity for people to enjoy Kirby in a range of different ways while playing his games. For someone like me, who likes Kirby more than anything, I can’t wait to enjoy even more Kirby in the future.

PLAYFUL KIRBY is open until December 26, 2019, so if you’re in Tokyo until then, make sure to pop on over to Laforet Harajuku.

▶︎Win Limited Edition Stickers

MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON is holding a competition on our official Instagram, Twitter and Weibo pages for a chance to win limited edition stickers from PLAYFUL KIRBY.

How to Apply: Follow us on social media and share/retweet our post about the competition for a chance to win 1 special sticker from PLAYFUL KIRBY. (Designs are chosen randomly.)

These are limited edition stickers exclusive to PLAYFUL KIRBY, so don’t miss your chance to get one!

© Nintendo / HAL Laboratory, Inc.

LEGS is opening a Kirby-themed pop-up shop named ‘PLAYFUL KIRBY’ for a limited time in Laforet Harajuku, a landmark of Tokyo’s fashion hub Harajuku.

The shop has invited popular Japanese illustrator Shogo Sekine on board, who is known for its distinct typography work which mixes fashion with messages written in English, to create an original line of Kirby apparel and miscellaneous fashion items.

PLAYFUL KIRBY is also teaming up with Converse. Kirby has inhaled a few too many Converse Stars and has turned into a truly fashionable pink blob. The line-up is unisex so can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone. It will include items also available to purchase at Converse Stars branches as well as Laforet Harajuku exclusives.

Witness Nintendo’s Dream Land hero in an all-new light as he becomes a fashion icon at Laforet Harajuku this month from December 16 to 26.

©Nintendo / HAL Laboratory, Inc.

*Photos are for illustrative purposes only

The KIRBY CAFÉ is set to open on the 4th floor of Toyko Solamachiーthe shopping, dining and entertainment complex under Tokyo Skytreeーon December 12, 2019 as the world’s first permanent Kirby-themed café.

Though we still have a week to wait until Kirby inhales us whole into his café, the official website is already live, showcasing a new line-up of food and merchandise different from that held at the pop-up Kirby cafés (which we have covered extensively in Fukuoka and even Tokyo Solamachi, the latter of which has seen the most pop-ups).

Some of the menu items are served in a Kirby lunch box, on a Kirby plate, and more. Let’s take a look. Menu items below are translated from Japanese.

KIRBY CAFÉ’s Stone Baked Pizza ~Maximum Tomato Margherita~ – ¥1,380 (Before Tax)

KIRBY CAFÉ’s Stone Baked Pizza ~Greedy Half ‘n’ Half~ – ¥3,980 (Before Tax)

Served on an original plate, the half ‘n’ half comes served with two pizza flavours of your choice. Perfect for those times when you can’t decide because all the options are too good!

Kirby’s Munching Loco Moco Bowl – ¥1,980 (Before Tax)

Munch and chew on this tasty serving of loco moco just like Kirby is adorably doing on the lunch box it comes in.

Whole Egg Plant & Meat Pasta: Say Your Wish to the Galaxy – ¥1,380 (Before Tax)

Meta Knight’s Precious Matcha Mousse – ¥780 (Before Tax)

Doctor Kirby’s Secret Lab Soda – ¥1,280 (Before Tax)

As well as these incredible-looking dishes, there’s lots of other cute ones you can order for takeout too.

If you visit the KIRBY CAFÉ, you’ll have to pay a visit to KIRBY CAFÉ THE STORE as well which is located on the 2nd floor of Solamachi. There’s around 200 pieces of Kirby merchandise including exclusives as well as KIRBY CAFÉ-themed items.

The KIRBY CAFÉ has its own soundtrack which you can actually buy at the store too. It will be released on December 12. We did an article about it here.

Customers can received a specially-made sticker with the CD design when they buy something at the café or store.

The KIRBY CAFÉ gives priority to reservations, so if you’re hoping to get sucked into the world of Kirby, be sure to book in advance.

The KIRBY CAFÉ will be releasing its second CD soundtrack called Sound of Kirby Café 2 on December 12. The soundtrack will be available to purchase from the KIRBY CAFÉ and KIRBY CAFÉ THE STORE in Japan.

The KIRBY CAFÉ has only ever been a temporary café that makes an appearance now and again. However, it is finally sticking around for good from December 12. To celebrate, the café has a whole lineup of new songs. 

HAL Laboratory, Inc. is the official sound team behind the Kirby’s Dream Land game series They have carefully selected 15 original songs from the game and arranged them specifically for use in the café.

A team of six musicians, some of which are new, got together to create a variety of Kirby song arrangements. From sophisticated yet relaxing cafe-style songs to cute songs which represent the pop colours of the mains and desserts, each song perfectly preserves the catchy features of the original. From the careful song selection, the sound direction was done by Kirby’s Dream Land’s general director Shinya Kumazaki from HAL Laboratory, Inc.

​The KIRBY CAFÉ and store are also giving away free stickers decorated with the special design on the CD. These stickers are in limited supply and can only be obtained by purchasing the soundtrack from the café or official store. Information on general sales and online sales will be announced in the future. 

Whether you’re cosying up on the couch or on the way to work, let the ​KIRBY CAFÉ’s official soundtrack create the perfect atmosphere for you. 

© 2019 HAL Laboratory, Inc. /Nintendo

Sugar Factory is the mastermind behind four trendy brands in Japan including the colourful candy floss shop TOTTI CANDY FACTORY, which is famous for its giant Harajuku rainbow cotton candy, and candy coated strawberry shop Strawberry Fetish. On September 26, they will be opening a bubble tea shop in Ochanomizu called Wu-Cha which is committed to serving only the best quality.

Wu-Cha uses large tapioca pearls sourced from Taiwan. From start to finish, the process of making these fresh tapioca pearls involves four hours of careful procedures. They are boiled and steamed carefully according to a strict schedule to create a springy texture. As the pearls are soaked evenly in syrup, each pearl is packed with deliciousness that will explode in your mouth with every bite. 

Okinawa Brown Sugar Milk Tea: ¥470

Matcha Milk Tea: ¥550

Extensive research went into creating recipes to use these tapioca pearls. Raw ingredients such as Okinawa brown sugar and Kyoto Uji matcha have been carefully sourced from their places of origin to maximize the flavours. A generous amount of all these special ingredients have been used to develop these delicious and authentic milk teas. 

Strawberry Milk: ¥550

Mango Yoghurt: ¥ 550

The Strawberry Milk and Mango Yoghurt are made with fresh fruit pieces and look just as refreshing as they taste.  

Beautiful Skin Tea: ¥450

Fatigue Recovery Tea: ¥450

There is a large variety of drinks to enjoy with a range of healing effects. Alongside the bubble tea series and the fruity tea series, there is also a herb tea series. 

Whether you are tired, unwell or just in need of a quick sugar boost, this bubble tea shop is the fairy godmother to all your problems. Every drink is packed with love and you absolutely must try it. 

At MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON, we have introduced a lot of kawaii bubble tea drinks you can in enjoy in Kyoto. However, we have much more to offer you than just bubble tea news! Today we have summarised the top soda drinks you can enjoy in Kyoto which both look and taste amazing. With the help of kyoto cafe life tiara ‘s phenomenal photos, we will be introducing you our top six picks.

SHIN-SETSU /Nakagyō-ku

Blood Orange (left)  Blue Curaçao (right): ￥690

Bubble tea is a national sensation in Japan. Until now, MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON has been introducing quite a lot of bubble tea shops in Harajuku, however today, we are going to introduce you to some special bubble teas that you can only get in Sapporo, Hokkaido.

When it comes to cafés, desserts and drinks in Sapporo, you can always count on Instagrammer Kei to pick out the most unique and cute places.  Check out his Instagram (@607keih) which is home to a precious collection of mouthwatering and delicious pictures.

And with that let’s get started:

Club China/Tanukikoji 

Almond Jelly Coconut Milk and Bubble Tea ￥600 (strawberry sauce topping: +￥50)

(Chinese almond jelly is sometimes made with apricot kernels.)

Club China is a Chinese restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Chinese food in a classy atmosphere. This rare bubble tea is the perfect way to discover authentic Chinese flavours. You can change the sweetness of your drink by adding gomme syrup, brown sugar sauce or strawberry sauce.

▶︎ Club China (クラブチャイナ)

Address: SYOKUSAN 35 Building 3rd Floor

3-chōme-5 Minami 3 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido

Opening Hours

・Lunch: 11:00 ー 15:00（Last orders: 14:30）

・Tea　14:30 ー 17:00

・Dinner: 17:00 ー 22:00（Last orders: 21:00）

Closed: Wednesdays (Open on national holidays)

Website: http://www.clubchina.jp/index.html

Oukacha (Located inside Izakaya Chorotto)/Higashi Ward

Strawberry Milk Cream: ￥580

There is a famous Izakaya (Japanese-style pub) in the Higashi-ku area. However, during the daytime, it is sometimes taken over by a bubble tea shop called Oukacha. The drink to look out for is their homemade brown sugar syrup bubble tea, which you can order with topping of whipped cream. This is the way to treat anyone with a sweet tooth! 

▶︎ Oukacha (Located inside Izakaya Chorotto　桜華茶)

Address: 7-1-24, Kita 15 Johigashi, Higashi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido

As the opening and closing days/times are irregular, please check them on the shop’s official Instagram or Twitter. 

o.cha.bar/Tanukikoji

Ritz Cream Cheese Churros: ￥550, Okinawa Brown Sugar Bubble Milk: ￥650

MESSE Building is a mall full of interesting restaurants including a Bikkuri Donkey. Head to the 5th floor to discover a Taiwanese and Korean restaurant called o.cha.bar. This is where you will come across the Okinawa Bubble Milk. This is a bubble tea which is topped with a generous serving of cream made using salt sourced from Okinawa. The tapioca is imported directly from Taiwan and has a very springy texture. Maximise your experience by dipping the churros in the cream cheese. 

▶︎ o.cha.bar（オチャバー）

Address: N.MESSE Building 5th floor, Minami 3-jo Nishi 3, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 

Opening Hours: 11:30 ー 21:00

Closed: No regular holidays 

Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/ochabar1

cafe & kitchen unique/Higashi Ward

Strawberry Milk: ￥480 , Matcha: ￥480, Served in a bottle: +￥80

cafe&kitchen unique is famous for their delicious fluffy pancakes that are made in a deep pot and topped with beautiful toppings. However, their bubble teas which are sold in cute bottles are also something you do not want to miss. The Strawberry Milk contains fruity pieces which perfectly compliment the milk. The Matcha Milk has a gentle sweet flavour that adults would love.  

▶︎ cafe&kitchen unique (cafe&kitchen ユニック)

Address: 3 Chome-2-6 Kita 10 Johigashi, Higashi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 

Opening Hours

Lunch : 11:00 ー 14:00

Coffee Time: 14:00 ー 17:00

Dinner: 17:00 ー 22:00

Closed: The 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month. 

Official Website: https://cafekitchen-unique.com/

MY TAPIOCA KOUTA/Higashi Ward

Brown Sugar Bubble Tea Latte 

Ramen restaurant Ore no Ramen Kouta also runs the bubble tea shop MY TAPIOCA KOUTA, where it is possible to order just a bubble tea. The brown sugar adds a strong accent to the flavour. The tapioca pearls are large and although this is filling drink, it is also cheap which makes it a good deal. The shop is open late into the night which is perfect for those late night cravings. 

▶︎ MY TAPIOCA KOUTA

Address: 4-5-26, Honcho 1 jo, Higashi Ward, Sapporo

Opening Hours: 11:00 ー 23:30

Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/tapiocamy

Milk san Asabu Branch/Asabu

Strawberry Milk: ￥650, Brown Sugar Milk: ￥570, Tapioca Topping: ￥70 (served in a bottle) 

Milk san serves delicious drinks made using milk which is specially produced by dairy farmers, contributing to the delicious Hokkaido goodness of the drink. The small tapioca pearls and the rich milky flavour are the perfect combination. The brown sugar flavour is only available at the Asabu branch, so we recommend you try it. As these drinks are served in cute bottles, you just have to post a picture on Instagram. 

▶︎ Milk san Asabu

みるくsan麻生店

Address: Karumu Asabu 1st floor, 5-2-8, Kita 39 Jonishi, Kita Ward, Sapporo 

Opening Hours: 10:00 ー 19:30

Official Website: https://www.milk-san.com/

Iced Biscuit Shop SHONPY/Susukino

Chocolate Mint Frappé: ￥690, Strawberry Milk Bubble Tea with a Tapioca Float: ￥690 

One by one, this shop makes iced biscuits that are original down to their shape. SHONPY also delivers countrywide. The Strawberry Milk Bubble Tea comes with a tapioca float that is too cute to consume. It is filled with fruit such as strawberries and bananas that are a perfect match with the tapioca. The Chocolate Mint Frappé comes in a very cute bottle. This shop opened in Harajuku too.

▶︎SHONPY

Address: SUSUKINO LAFILER 2nd floor, 4 Chome, Minami 4 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 

Opening Hours: 10:00 ー 21:00

No fixed holidays

Official Website: http://shon-py.jp/

So, how about it? If you ever find yourself in Hokkaido, Kei’s recommended Hokkaido-limited bubble teas are bound to make your trip special. 

Kei’s Instagram is full of delicious desserts and mouthwatering meals. When in doubt of where to eat out, Kei’s Instagram is bound to save your day so please check it out.

Photos & Text: Kei（@607keih）

From August 30, 2019, Starbucks Coffee Japan is celebrating the coming of autumn with their scheme Artful Autumn @ Starbucks®.

The concept of this year is “Be colourful” and sees the release of new drinks that burst into colour for a beautiful moment. Through art and colour, Starbucks is creating an opportunity for many to experience the unique colourfulness of autumn. 

The two new drinks to make it to Starbucks’ menu are the colourful and cute Green Apple Jelly Frappuccino® and Baked Apple Pink Frappuccino®, which are both made using autumn apples. From the species of apple to the way it is prepared and arranged, two completely new apple frappuccinos have been invented. 

Left: Green Apple Jelly Frappuccino® /Right: Baked Apple Pink Frappuccino®: ￥580 (price before tax, tall size only)

The Green Apple Jelly Frappuccino® consists of wobbly green apple jelly and crunchy fruit, creating a fun texture in your mouth. Overall, there is a sweet and tangy yet creamy flavour. As the heat of summer still lingers during early autumn, this frappuccino is bound to be just what you need for a quick refresh. The whipped cream on top of the frappuccino is topped with thin shavings of green apple and vivid green candy pieces, adding a wonderful crunchy texture to the soft and fluffy cream. 

The Baked Apple Pink Frappuccino® is based on a pink baked apple. The sweetness and crunchiness of the crumble is a fun texture to enjoy. You will be able to taste baked apple with a faint taste of cinnamon. As it is still rather hot but not unbearable, this frappuccino is the perfect way to satisfy your sugar craving. This frappuccino is topped with bright pink and crunchy apple candy and crumble pieces, creating a wonderful texture adventure.

Make sure to also look out for the Apple Jelly Iced Tea and Baked Apple Iced Tea which will also be making an appearance at Starbucks.  

The colourful appearance, delicious flavour and texture of these two frappuccinos will enlighten you to a whole new world of unique colors, textures and flavors so please come try them for yourself. 

Japan is a haven for bubble tea and tapioca-based beverages. Here on MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON we have covered many shops selling these tasty drinks in Harajuku―the town which started the tapioca boom in Japan―but today we will be heading to the ancient city of Kyoto.

We are joined by Kyoto café life tiara who posts photos of the best drinks and desserts they have tried around the Kansai region of Japan. They have provided us with photos of two must-try bubble teas and two must-try desserts in Kyoto.

ROCCA & FRIENDS PAPIER KYOTO in Shijo

ROCCA & FRIENDS PAPIER KYOTO is just a 5-minute walk from Shijo Station. The cafe is made from a traditional townhouse along an old-fashioned Kyoto-esque street.

It takes a little while for your drink to arrive placing your order, but that’s because each beverage is carefully handmade from fresh. I ordered the mango smoothie soda and the strawberry smooth soda. Both are fruity and super refreshing and full of chewy tapioca pearls.

▼ROCCA & FRIENDS PAPIER KYOTO

Address: 735-2 Shinkamanzacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00

Closed: Mondays

Official Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/rocca.papier/

&Hana in Shijo

&Hana is located at the back of Kyoto Daimaru. The cheese rose tapioca milk tea I bought is a cute pink colour. It’s a mix of rose which is good for skin and relaxation, sweet brown sugar tapioca, and sour cheese.

Draped at the back of the cafe are bunches of dried flowers which provide an Instagrammable background for your drinks.

▼&hana

Address: 619 Nishiuoyacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Opening Hours: Weekdays 11:00-22:00 / Weekends & Holidays 10:00-22:0

No Fixed Holidays

Official Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/and_hana_/

KISSHOKARYO KYOTO in Gion

This honey and tea parfait is special because they only serve 20 of them a day. Tapioca pearls go well not just in drinks but in desserts like this one too♡

The fluffy shaved ice is a perfect match with the homemade Earl Grey tea syrup. The rest of the parfait is made up of milk tea flavoured jelly, tapioca pearls, tea ganache, and other delightful surprises.

I enjoyed mine with lots of syrup and roasted soybean flour!

▼KISSHOKARYO KYOTO Gion Honten

Address: 306 Ishibashicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

Opening Hours: 10:00-19:00 (Last Orders 18:30)

No Fixed Holidays

Official Website: https://kisshokaryo.jp/

MASHOLA in Kawaramachi

MASHOLA is a South Korean-style cafe which of course sells tapioca pearl drinks, but also this delicious capo egg brulee tart as well. As soon as you put the order in their fire up the tarts fresh along with hot tapioca pearls for a heavenly melt-in-the-mouth experience.

They also sell bottled strawberry milk packed full of fresh strawberries, and for an extra ¥80 you can top if off with tapioca.

▼MASHOLA

Address: 406 Sakuranocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00

No Fixed Holidays

Official Website:  https://mashola.business.site/

Did you enjoy this list? Kyoto café life tiara has lots of other tempting recommendations of drinks and desserts on their Instagram page too, so if you’re looking for something to try while in the Kansai region of Japan be sure to give them a follow.

Text & Photos: ＠happy_pinkrose_tiara

Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

Tea enthusiasts THE ALLEY are opening a flagship store in Dogenzaka, Shibuya on September 14, 2019.

THE ALLEY’s main customers are women and office workers. It’s custom for people to go out for a cup of coffee with friends and coworkers, but THE ALLEY hopes to bring that same idea of “grabbing a coffee” to tea with their drinks line-up. Located at the top of Dogenzaka, the new branch aims to make tea even easier to enjoy while embedding a culture of tea.

Enjoy a drink between shopping or work in one of their 73 comfy seats spread across two floors, or grab a takeaway cup to sip.

“THE ALLEY x thermo mug” 300ml Tumbler – ¥3,500 (Before Tax) / “THE ALLEY x thermo mug” 300ml Stainless Steel Bottle – ¥3,500 (Before Tax)

The cafe has also teamed up with thermo mug to create a seriously stylish tumbler and stainless steel bottle. Both are limited in availability, and if you do decide to grab one, you can get a coupon for one free drink of your voice. They are perfect for using at home, out or at the office.

THE ALLEY is known for its three tea bases: Assam, Royal No. 9, and Jasmine. But the new Dogenzaka branch will have two extra exclusives. The first is White Peach Oolong which originally appeared as a limited-time flavour and in the cafe’s milk foam series. It’s now a regular at the new cafe. The other is Tieguanyin, a premium oolong tea, whose sales ended in May this year. Due to high demand, they are bringing it back to THE ALLEY Dogenzaka and plan to put it on the menu of other branches in the future.

The cafe has also incorporated paper straws to help combat the use of single-use plastic straws. This includes their thick straws used for tapioca bubble tea drinks and ordinary thin straws for their regular teas.

THE ALLEY Dogenzaka marks the cafe’s move from a tea stand into a full-fledged tea shop. If you’re in Shibuya, be sure to pay them a visit when they open on September 14.

Hey, MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON readers! I’m Banako of MOSHI MOSHI FRIENDS.

It’s safe to say that most long-standing, older cafés in Japan serve cream soda. It’s a drink that bellows with nostalgia, topped cutely with a dollop of ice cream and sparkling bright with vivid colour like some rare jewel.

It’s a rather simple drink, but the number of people intrigued by its unique appearance are evidently on the rise. And I’m one of those people! I’ve had times where if it’s available on the menu I want to order it－and further still I’ve gone out of my way to a café solely because I’ve wanted some cream soda.

Depending on the vibe and atmosphere of a café, the appearance of the cream soda will be different, which also means a different flavour. This is all part of the enjoyment of cream soda: it’s fun to compare the different tastes.

I have made a long list of my most recommended cream sodas in Tokyo, all of which I have actually tried!

To make it easier to picture each drink I have also given a rating out of 5☆ stars for the strength of the fizziness, the sweetness of the soda, and sweetness of the ice cream. Use this as reference when picking your drink of choice. Enjoy this specially curated selection of drinks in cafés that you’re going to want to snap lots of pictures of♡

①CAMPUS TOY cafe&bar

CAMPUS TOY is located in the Jinbocho district of Tokyo. This exciting little place has gone for an American pop vibe. They sell toys too.

The extra goodies they put in the cream soda here is influenced by the US too. The owner is a really interesting person, so much so that you end up losing track of the time as you get lost in conversation with them.

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

CAMPUS TOY cafe&bar

Address: 2-10 Kanda-Jinbocho, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: [Mon-Fri] 18:00-22:00

Closed: Weekends & Public Holidays

Access: 2-minutes on foot from Jinbocho Station’s A2 Exit

TEL: 03-3261-7383

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/campustoy_matz/?hl=ja

②Café Negura

This little-known-good-spot can be found in Shimokitazawa. The café interior has relaxed and retro décor. Their cream soda is served with two stacks of ice cream and a crown of whipped cream topped off with a cherry. What a cute-looking drink!

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★☆☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★★☆

▶︎ Café Negura

Address: PACKAGE ONE Floor 1F (North Side), 2-26-13 Kitazawa, Setagaya Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 11:30 ー 20:00

Closed: Mondays & Tuesdays

Access:152m walk from Shimokitazawa Station

Twitter：https://twitter.com/neguracafe_mi

③Sepia

Another retro-style café, except this one is specifically influenced by the Showa period . Situated in Shibamata, everything about this café, from the outside to the interior, breathes retro-Showa. On the second floor is the Candy Candy Museum.

Their cream soda is the quintessential classic cream soda…but with a twist. It has mikan in it, a type of orange, which is very rare with cream sodas. That gives off a retro-ness too. Another cute beverage!

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎ Sepia

Address: 7-4-11 Shibamata, Katsushika Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 10:00-18:30 (Last Orders 18:00

Closed: Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Access: 2-minutes on foot from Shibamata Station (Accessed via the Keisei Line)

Instagram: https://instagram.com/sepiamama?igshid=1urnwdix23qbx

④ALL C’S CAFE

ALL C’S CAFE is in Koenji, the retro hub of Tokyo. Decorations of cute bears are what this café is all about. There are enormous life-sized bears everywhere, so you can get ready to snap some seriously kawaii pictures.

The café itself, as well as the adorable smiley bear on your cream soda, is sure to elicit some high-pitched “Aww’s.”

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★★☆

▶︎ALL C’S CAFE

Address: Miyake Bldg. 2F, 3-25-24 Koenji, Suginami Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-22:00

Closed: No Fixed Holidays (except Obon and New Year’s Holidays)

Access: 5-minutes on foot from the north exit of Koenji Station (Accessed via the JR Chuo Line)

Website: http://www.allcscafe.com

⑤Café Hosekibako

Hosekibako, which means ‘jewelry box’ in Japanese, is right next to Chitose-Karasuyama Station. Retro vibes waft their way throughout this cozy little hideaway with the littering of Showa manga and other miscellaneous odds and ends.

This café too has the signature classic cream soda. It has a transparent appearance in its truly beautiful colour.

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★★☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎ Café Hosekibako

Address: Koyama Mansion 102, 4-18-18 Minamikarasuyama, Setagaya Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-18:30 (Last Orders 18:00)

Closed: Wednesdays

Access: 5-minutes on foot from the east exit of Chitose-Karasuyama Station (Accessed via the Keio Line)

Website: https://housekibako.wixsite.com/2009

⑥THE GREAT BURGER STAND

This hamburger shop sells an American-style cream soda, topped with swirly ice cream rather than cream soda’s classic dollop. That, together with the huge glass it’s served in, is enough to get you excited before you even take a sip. The café can be found in Shibuya Stream, meaning you can stop by for a breather after shopping.

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★★☆

▶︎THE GREAT BURGER STAND

Address: Shibuya Stream 1F, 3-21-3 Shibuya, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo

Access: 1-minute on foot from Shibuya Station via the JR Yamanote Line 

Opening Hours: 11:00 ー 23:00 (Last orders:  22:30)

Closed when Shibuya Stream is closed.

Access: Approx. 1-minute walk from Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_great_burger/

⑦Coffee Shop Galant

Right beside Ueno Station you’ll find Galant, a coffee shop also with an air of retro-Showa to it during the bubble economy period. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time when you see the dazzling décor and the staff uniforms. Peeking through the see-through liquid is a cute red cherry♡

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎ Coffee Shop Galant

Address: 6-14-4 Ueno, Taito Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 8:00-23:00

No Fixed Holidays

Access: Directly behind the toy store Yamashiroya (山城屋), just a two minute walk from JR Ueno Station. Also 1-minute on foot from exit 5b of Ueno Station (accessed via the Tokyo Metro Line and Hibiya Line)

Tabelog: https://www.google.co.jp/amp/s/s.tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13039759/top_amp/

⑧bio ojiyan cafe Harajuku

Ojiya, also known as zosui, is a type of Japanese rice-based vegetable soup. In my opinion, the ojiya served here is the tastiest in the world! Their cream soda comes in a large round cup and is a nice refreshment after a spot of ojiya.

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★★☆

▶︎bio ojiyan café

Location: 4-26-28 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00

No Fixed Holidays

Access: 10-minutes on foot from JR Harajuku Station / 3-minutes on foot from the Jingumae Crossing ticket gate elevator exit of Meiji-Jingumae Station (Accessed via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)

Website: http://mfs11.com/brand/bio-ojiyan-cafe-harajuku/

⑨PEPPERS DRIVE IN

The main dish at this Kanagawa-based restaurant is curry. Every single thing about PEPPERS DRIVE IN is influenced by retro US elements, from the car park to the nooks and crannies inside and even the trays. You can take some really cute photos literally anywhere in the restaurant. The cream soda portion stays true to the American taste too with a generous serving.

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎PEPPERS DRIVE IN 

Address: 1129-1 Kidokoro, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa

Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30-15:00 (Last Orders 14:45) / Dinner 18:00-22:00 (Last Orders 21:30)

Closed: Wednesdays (Except on public holidays, in which case closed the following day)

Access: 6-minutes by taxi from south exit of Isehara Station (Accessed via the Odakyu Odawara Line) / 16-minutes by taxi from the north exit of Hiratsuka Station (Accessed via the JR Tokaido Main Line)

Official Website: http://www.peppers.co.jp

⑩BRIDGE

I reviewed the melon bread pancakes at this Ginza-based café earlier this year. It’s located inside a long-standing department store meaning the cream soda here has been around for a long time too, offering a more traditional taste. They are served on coasters which you can take home with you. It’s a great place to stop off for a break when strolling around Ginza.

Fizziness：★★☆☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★★★☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎BRIDGE

Address: NISHIGINZA Floor B1F, 4-1 Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo

Business Hours: [Monday-Saturday] 11:00-20:30 (Last Orders 20:00) / [Sunday & Holidays] 11:00-20:00 (Last Orders 19:30)

Closed: When NISHIGINZA Department Store is closed.

Website: http://www.nishiginza.co.jp/page/shopguide/detail/?id=33

⑪HIROMAN’S COFFEE

Another snug hideout, situated in the backstreets and surrounded by trees, is HIROMAN’S COFFEE. This cute café has lots of antique picture frames, rabbit ornaments, and other tidbits. Their melon soda arrives in a cute round and plump glass. They plenty of other Instagrammable drinks too including one topped with cotton candy. This one is one to keep coming back to!

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎ HIROMAN’S COFFEE

Address: 3-18-12 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 11:00-19:00 (Last Orders 18:30)

No Fixed Holidays

Access: 10-minutes on foot from Meiji-Jingumae Station

Instagram: https://instagram.com/hiromans_coffee?igshid=oumb3g7aergo

⑫ blikje button

⑫blikje button

blikje button in Shimokitazawa, which offers both a café and dining experience, has a vintage vibe to it with decorations that have a handcrafted feel to them.  The glasses the cream sodas come in match that aesthetic. The stroking colours of the sodas are something beautiful to behold!

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎blikje button

Address: Shimokitazawa Central Bldg. 2F, 2-14-7 Kitazawa, Setagaya Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-23:00 (Lunch 12:00-16:00/Café 12:00-18:00/Dinner 17:00-23:00) *Food last orders 22:00, drink last orders 22:30

No Fixed Holidays

Access: 2-minutes on foot from Shimokita Station via the Odakyu Line / 2-minutes on foot from the south-west exit of Shimokitazawa Station via the Keio Inokashira Line

Website: http://www.blikje-button.com/

⑬CAROLINE DINER

CAROLINE DINER is a famous café in Harajuku inspired by American diners. The cream sodas sold here are striking and nothing short of Instagram-worthy! They go perfectly with the stylish interior of the café that you’ll no doubt find yourself taking photos.

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★★☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎CAROLINE

Address: 2-14-11 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-18:30 (Last Orders 18:00)

Closed: Thursdays

Access: 10-minutes on foot from Meiji-Jingumae Station / 10-minutes on foot from Kita-Sando Station / 10-minutes on foot from Setagaya Station

Website: http://caroline1.theshop.jp/

And that’s all from me Banako and my must-try recommendations for Tokyo cream soda. Do you have a favourite from this list?

Tokyo’s summer is nowhere near over yet. How about treating to yourself to a nice refreshing cream soda to cool yourself down from the scorching heat?

Kiyomizu Cheese Kobo opened at Kiyomizu Gojozaka at the foot of the famous Kiyomizudera Temple as Kyoto’s first ever cheesecake shop to sell its delicious cheesecakes in a cute jar. On August 13, they released a mouthwateringly rich Matcha Cheese Tea which will enlighten you with a new way to enjoy matcha.

The Matcha Cheese Tea harnesses Kyoto’s unbeatable Uji matcha which is full of rich and fresh flavour. A light cloud of fluffy cheese foam floats on top of the drink, adding a salty accent to the overall flavour. A traditional tea combined with a sweet and salty cheese flavour ー this brand new flavour discovery will leave you feeling refreshed and enlightened. The recipe for the cheese foam consists of cream cheese carefully selected by the cheesecake shop’s specialists. This is then blended with a small amount of salt to accent the flavour. 

If you mix the matcha milk tea with the cheese foam, the rich matcha mixes with the saltiness of the cream cheese, creating a sweet salty flavour that you will not be able to get enough of. As the flavour is not too overpowering, you can enjoy this drink endlessly and will feel refreshed even on a hot summer’s day. 

Matcha Cheese Tea: ￥460

Kiyomizu Cheese Kobo recommends three different ways to drink the Matcha Cheese Tea to enjoy three different levels of flavour combinations. 

① First off, drink just the matcha milk tea so you can experience the true authentic flavour of Kyoto’s famous rich Uji matcha tea. 

② Next, move your straw so that you taste just the cheese foam on its own. The fluffy foam will gently slide over your tongue and spread a mild and sweet flavour all over your mouth. 

③ Finally, it’s time to mix everything. The saltiness of the cheese foam and the sweetness of the matcha milk will create a new salty sweet flavour that you will want to try again and again.

Whether you are a Japanese local or a foreigner, this drink is a fun new way to enjoy matcha. If you are new to matcha, this is a good way to try the flavour without being too overwhelmed.