We started our day bright and early on the Philosopher’s path in Kyoto. During Sakura season, the narrow trail is surrounded by soft, lively pink petals. Although the cherry blossoms reached their full bloom a couple weeks before we arrived to Japan, we were lucky enough to see a handful that were still standing! Leaving Tetsugaku No Michi, we came across a small café owned by a sweet elderly couple. Off the beaten path, 茄韮ふうじえ Café de Whojé is a perfect shop to stop at after a morning of sightseeing. Stepping into this quaint little café you’ll notice antiques circle the room, classical music fills the air, and a warm couple greets you inside.
茄韮ふうじえ Café de Whojé offers an English translation on their menus for those of you visiting the land of the rising sun. This antique café serves their drinks and meals on elegant, vintage dishes. Many coffee shops in Japan provide one coffee with a small meal as a set– Café de Whojé is no stranger to that! If you order a set, you’ll receive a black coffee with a yummy cake. Our server, a charming woman, came to our table to show us all the cakes we could get if we decided on the Coffee and Cake Set. I’m not much of a sugary person, especially in the morning hours, so I declined the offer, but my boyfriend took full advantage of the set. Instead, I ordered an Almond Café au Lait and a tuna sandwich, and the almond café au lait was probably the best coffee and milk I’ve ever had.
For those of you concerned about a language barrier, I know it takes several years to master and become fluent in a language such as Japanese, so if you’re bent on visiting but nervous about a language barrier I recommend learning all the Kanas and common Kanji’s, as well as common phrases. Of course, you don’t need to do that in order to visit, but it does help and it makes the experience of traveling to Japan all the more amazing. Despite the language barrier, the people of Japan are very polite and accommodating. You’ll be able to understand most things through body language… and as long as you’re polite and respectful, you’ll have a great time in Japan!
As always, don’t exceed 6 shots of espresso! And if you’re ever in Kyoto, Japan, come down to 茄韮ふうじえ Café de Whojé after a morning of sightseeing and in need of your daily dose of caffeine! You’ll go back home remembering this unique café and its welcoming presence!