Custom-designed cups and saucers for each blend!
In Kyoto, coffee shops have long been known for their thick, cylindrical coffee cups. Ichikawa Yosuke (市川陽介), the owner of ‘Ichikawaya Coffee (市川屋珈琲)’, who spent 18 years working at the renowned ‘INODA COFFEE (イノダコーヒ)’, knows why.
“I’ve heard it’s a thoughtful design to keep the coffee warm, even during long conversations,” he explains.
When Ichikawa decided to open his own shop, he chose cylindrical cups for his signature ‘Ichikawaya Blend’. And not just any cups—they are custom-made from Kiyomizu ware (清水焼)!
“My father and brother are Kiyomizu ceramic artists, so asking family made things quicker (laughs). I also hope younger customers will become more interested in traditional crafts through this,” he says.
The cups are designed with a thinner rim for a refined feel against the lips, while retaining thickness inside to keep the coffee warm. Three blends, three distinct cups—each tailored to match the flavour of the coffee. Even among Kyoto’s rich landscape of cafés, such attention to detail is rare. This level of dedication is applause worthy.
A thick base to retain heat: Cups and saucers designed for the Ichikawaya Blend
A design that lets delicate aromas bloom: Cup and saucer for the Seiji (青磁) Blend
A demitasse shape for deep roast: Cup and saucer for the Umamachi (馬町) Blend
Ichikawaya Blend and Seiji Blend – ¥500 each; Umamachi Blend – ¥530. Coffee refills available for ¥250 per cup (all prices include tax).
Right : The Demi-omurice (デミオムライス; demi-glace omelette rice) at ¥800 (tax included) also offers a delightfully nuanced taste.
Shop information.
Ichikawaya Coffee (市川屋珈琲)
Address: 396-2, Kanecho-cho, Higashioji Nishiiru, Shibuya-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Tel: 075-748-1354
Opening hours: 8am – 5pm
Holidays: Tuesdays, 2nd and 4th Wednesdays
Official website:https://ichikawaya.thebase.in/
Photography / Hiroaki Ishii (石井宏明)
Composition / Fujita Yu (藤田 優)
*This article is a reproduction from the magazine ‘Wagaku’ (April/May 2021 issue). All listed prices include tax. Please note that business days and hours may change, so be sure to check for the latest information before planning your visit.
This article is translated from https://intojapanwaraku.com/travel/238880/