Japan’s Kissaten Coffee Culture

Matcha is having its moment, with the appetite for the beverage having grown exponentially outside Japan in recent years. Travellers looking for matcha and a meaningful, meditative cultural practice are able to immerse themselves through the art of chado (Japanese tea ceremony), deepening their appreciation through an experience that engages the senses on both a physical and a spiritual level. However, for visitors to Japan who don’t find the flavour of matcha to be quite their cup of tea, Japanese coffee culture might suit the palate. Inspired by 19th-century Western literary salons, retro-style cafés or kissatens invite quiet contemplation through attentive service and nostalgia-inducing Shōwa-era aesthetics often soundtracked by either classical music (meikyoku kissa) or jazz (jazz kissa). Almost always independently owned and operated, kissatens are the result of thoughtful and careful curation. 

Here are five kissatens, each with its own distinctive vibe, to check out the next time you’re in Japan.

Elevated Elegance

Photograph by Ooki Jingu.

Koffee Mameya Kakeru (Tokyo): Reservations are required for this truly unique coffee establishment, more akin to an omakase tasting menu. Located a 10- to 15-minute drive from Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi and Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, it’s housed in a former warehouse and has recently hosted events with coffee growers from Brazil, Panama, and Santa Barbara, California. 

Vintage Appeal

Monozuki (Tokyo): Time travel feels possible at Monozuki (founded in 1975), with its antique clocks that add to the mid-century charm of the venue, which focuses on black coffee. Just how old-school is it? Monozuki has no website or Instagram account. You can find it in real life at 3 Chome-12-10 Nishiogikita, Suginami City, Tokyo.

Hip and Moody

Gion Ishi Kissaten (Kyoto): Escape the crowds at Yasaka Shrine and enjoy a cup inside a distinctive Brutalist building that is also home to a jewelry, fossil, and mineral store (five minutes by car from Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto). The spot’s 1970s-style decor features impressive cypress-wood wall panelling.  

Considered Design

Bread, Espresso & Arashiyama Garden (Kyoto): A 210-year-old thatched-roof home takes on a new life (with coffee beans roasted on-site) through the vision skillfully executed by the Kimoto Yosuke Architectural Design Room, which was shortlisted for the Sky Design Awards for its work. Patrons can choose from sitting Japanese style (shoes off, at low tables on the floor) or in the Western fashion, both with views of the stunning garden. Can’t make it to Kyoto? The cafe just opened its first U.S. outpost, in Redondo Beach, California.

Diner-Chic Charm

Iwata Coffee (Kamakura): A popular day trip from Tokyo, coastal Kamakura is home to Iwata Coffee, established in 1945. This café on Komachi Street has a long literary history (and was even visited by John Lennon and Yoko Ono). It specializes in “nel drip” coffee, a brewing method invented in Japan that brings out the flavour of the beans by filtering it through cotton flannel (or “nel”) for a mellow finish. 

World Class

Near or far, family travel is a chance to connect, explore, and turn curiosity into discovery. Certain destinations can even extend school study, bringing ancient civilizations and different cultures up close. Here’s our select global guide to places where textbook lessons come to life. 

Boston 

Best for older grade-schoolers 

The Paul Revere Mall

What’s New: Ask AI-supported holographic figures about their experiences during the American Revolution as part of the Museum of African American History’s ongoing exhibit Black Voices of the Revolution, which spotlights the roles of enslaved and free Black men and women in America’s struggle for independence. 

Extra Credit: Both Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston, and Four Seasons Hotel Boston offer private walking tours of the Freedom Trail, where historic sites include the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, and more. 

Washington, D.C. 

Best for middle school students 

Jefferson Monument

What’s New: Coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, Washington, D.C., is poised for two major openings: the undercroft of the Lincoln Memorial, a behemoth subterranean space including a theatre presentation and interactive exhibits, and the expansive National Geographic Museum of Exploration

Extra Credit: Marvel at the monuments and memorials lit up at night on a private driving tour—with stops for photos—organized by Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. 

Athens 

Best for middle school students 

The Temple of Poseidon

What’s New: When it opens in 2026, the National Museum of Underwater Antiquities in Piraeus, near Athens, will highlight Greece’s maritime history with more than 2,500 artifacts, including a replica of a trireme.     

Extra Credit: Let the team at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens take you and your crew on a guided visit to the Temple of Poseidon, at Cape Sounion. It’s sure to be a big hit with Percy Jackson fans. 

London  

Best for high school students 

The Tower of London

What’s New: The Bayeux Tapestry—a depiction of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, including the critical Battle of Hastings—goes on view at the British Museum in the fall of 2026, on loan from France.  

Extra Credit: Explore the Tower of London on a private guided tour arranged by Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge, seeing the Crown Jewels and learning about imprisonments, executions, and a recent excavation of 14th-century burials that may be tied to the Black Death. 

Petra and Amman, Jordan 

Best for high school students 

The ancient city of Petra

What’s New: Archaeologists continue to make discoveries in the ancient city of Petra; a 2024 dig revealed a 2,000-year-old tomb with 12 skeletons, one of which was holding a ceramic cup, an example of Nabataean pottery.  

Extra Credit: Along with guided visits to Petra, Four Seasons Hotel Amman offers such unique experiences as painting at the Roman ruins of Pella. 

Kyoto, Japan 

Best for middle school students 

Higashiyama
The Higashiyama district, home to the Kiyomizu-dera Temple

What’s New: Kyoto’s famous Kiyomizu-dera and Toji temples are known for their illuminated night displays. Pair a visit to one of them with an immersive experience at the new teamLab museum Biovortex, where multisensory digital art exhibits include Forest of Resonating Lamps: One Stroke, whose illumination changes in response to human presence.  

Extra Credit: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto offers a host of special tours, which can include visits to the feudal-era Nijō Castle and the Yasaka Pagoda or an after-hours tour of the imperial gardens at Sennyū-ji Temple. 

Mexico City 

Best for older grade-schoolers 

Hot-air balloons over the Teotihuacán pyramids

What’s New: The recently opened Museo Casa Kahlo focuses on iconic artist Frida Kahlo’s early family life, highlighting never-before-seen letters, childhood photos, and clothing, as well as a recently discovered mural. It’s a few blocks from the famed cobalt blue Museo Frida Kahlo, which showcases Kahlo’s artwork and marriage to Diego Rivera. 

Extra Credit: Have the team at Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City arrange a private hot-air balloon ride over the spectacular Teotihuacán pyramids, where a major pre-Columbian city once flourished.  

Feel at Home in the City with Four Seasons Private Residences

No two people experience a city in the exact same way. One person’s New Orleans may be defined by jazz and music festivals, while another’s may be centred on Creole cuisine. Your image of Kyoto may be of historic pagodas and pink cherry blossoms, while another’s may be filled with contemporary art. Featuring coveted addresses in sought-after neighbourhoods, locally inspired design elements, world-class amenities created specifically for residential use and deeply personalized service, these Four Seasons Private Residences in Minneapolis, New Orleans, Bengaluru and Kyoto capture the unique energy of each city and bring it home to you.

Downtown living in Minneapolis

Set atop the city’s only five-star hotel, Four Seasons Private Residences Minneapolis features a carefully curated selection of 34 one-of-a-kind homes. “Our private residences are designed to reflect the unique atmosphere of downtown Minneapolis,” says Director of Residences Mark Syputa. Residents can choose between two distinct design palettes: Nordic and Urban. The Nordic palette features a clean, bright aesthetic that embraces the city’s Scandinavian roots, while the Urban palette offers an authentic Minneapolis feel with herringbone walnut floors and dark granite finishes. Whichever palette you choose, every residence offers stunning downtown views through towering windows that also serve to fill the spaces with an abundance of natural light.

From a 24-hour front desk team to a community and lifestyle lead in charge of planning unique events, we’ve thought of everything to ensure our residents have everything they need at their fingertips – we’re always just a chat away. – Mark Syputa, Director of Residences

Because the residences are located above Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, owners here can enjoy all the perks of hotel living while still having the privacy of a standalone home. “Our residents are able to enjoy the perfect balance of work and play in our mixed-use building,” says Syputa. “They can easily grab a quick bite at Socca Café before heading to work, relax at the end of the day in our indoor or outdoor pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or unwind at our fourth-floor lounge and terrace.” In addition to enjoying the five-star amenities, residents can also count on a dedicated residential team for around-the-clock service and care. “From a 24-hour front desk team to our Community and Lifestyle Lead Senna Szykulski in charge of planning unique events, we’ve thought of everything to ensure our residents have everything they need at their fingertips – we’re always just a chat away,” says Syputa.

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Given its prime location in the heart of the business district at the corner of Hennepin and Washington Avenues, Four Seasons Private Residences Minneapolis is surrounded by a vibrant community that is easily explored on foot, with many attractions including various music venues, the State Theatre and the Target Center – home to the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves and the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx – all just a quick stroll (or Skyway walk) away. And, the knowledgeable residential team is always ready with personalized recommendations for each resident. “Our team loves to recommend a full day of activities,” notes Syputa. Looking for the best latte in the city? That’ll be at Dogwood Café. How about a restaurant suggestion for date night? Try the rustic-chic Spoon and Stable or have the team book you a table at Zelo. “This trendy spot is known for its Italian-inspired cuisine that incorporates local ingredients,” says Syputa. Whatever you’re in the mood for, the residential Concierge can book you the perfect
table.

A lively riverfront oasis in New Orleans

The energy of New Orleans is beautifully distinct: the sounds of jazz heard around every corner, charming streetcars that make exploring the city a breeze and some of America’s top chefs serving up unforgettable meals. It’s a city that’s constantly evolving, using its melting pot of influences to create something entirely new.

Set within an iconic 34-storey tower completed in 1968 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the city’s founding, Four Seasons Private Residences New Orleans gives you unmatched access to the famed Crescent City. Designed by the celebrated architect Edward Durell Stone, the building itself is a mid-century icon, occupying two waterfront acres at the end of Canal Street on the banks of the Mississippi River.

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Inside the building, each one-, two-, and three- bedroom home (81 in total) invites you to create your own private haven. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide uninterrupted views of the Garden District, Canal Street, the surrounding Central Business District, the French Quarter or downriver to the Gulf. Residents can enjoy quiet moments in the private residential garden or gather with friends at the Private Residence Club lounge that overlooks the Mississippi River. You can also head downstairs to Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans for dinner at Miss River or drinks beneath the twinkling lights of Chandelier Bar. The Hotel’s full-service Spa, state-of-the-art fitness centre, and outdoor pool and terrace are also an extension of your life at Four Seasons Private Residences New Orleans.

When you’re ready to explore the town, the Morial Convention Center, Audubon Aquarium, Harrah’s Casino, Spanish Plaza and French Quarter are all within walking distance. Hop in your vehicle at the dedicated porte cochère entrance before heading out to your favourite
jazz club or local bistro, or let the residential team offer some personalized recommendations for an evening out.

An urban sanctuary in Bengaluru

Spread across two 30-storey towers, Four Seasons Private Residences Bengaluru at Embassy ONE offers effortless living in the centre of India’s “Silicon Valley.” Each one- to five-bedroom private residence feels like a personal sanctuary, providing a quiet and welcoming refuge from the city’s fast-paced energy just steps away. You’ll find an exclusive collection of three- and four-bedroom residences in the North Tower, complete with tall ceilings, bespoke details and elegant finishes. For those wanting to be a little closer to the action, the residences in the South Tower offer bold, soirée-friendly layouts located above Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru at Embassy ONE. In addition to providing access to all of the Hotel amenities, the South Tower is where you’ll also find resident-only amenities such as a private cinema, game room, residents lounge and a climate-controlled wine chamber.

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“The lush gardens, well-equipped gym and temperature-controlled pool collectively form an urban oasis within the bustling cityscape, reinforcing the feeling of a sanctuary,” says Assistant Director of Residences Vipindas Ramadas. And, while there are a variety of world-class amenities on-site, the Four Seasons commitment to enhance quality of living extends beyond that. “Understanding the diverse preferences of each resident allows us to tailor experiences that resonate with them, ensuring a true sense of belonging within our community,” says Ramadas. “We offer chef service on call, curated menus, personalized event catering, laundry services, housekeeping on call, and regular maintenance and upkeep – and to top it off, our expert concierge team is available 24 hours a day.”

Life in such a dynamic city is always exciting, and the residential team likes to keep residents informed about local events through quarterly newsletters and daily recommendations. “Our team aims to not only simplify our residents’ daily lives but also to serve as an invaluable resource in guiding residents to explore the rich cultural tapestry of Bengaluru, fostering a strong connection between them and the happenings in the city.”

History comes alive in Kyoto

Widely considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Kyoto has many faces. Pale shades of pink paint the city in the spring during cherry blossom season, while the bright red leaves of Japanese maples blanket the temples and gardens in autumn. Nestled within an 800-year-old ikeniwa garden pond in the historic temple district, Four Seasons Private Residences Kyoto provides an extraordinary place to experience it all.

“Our 57 residences incorporate old-world charm and tradition with contemporary design and modern conveniences,” says Director of Hotel Residences Rahul Mamgain. “Our pond garden makes our property quite unique in connecting residents to the roots of our former Imperial capital.” The residences themselves are designed to follow the concept of kutsuogi – the Japanese art of relaxation. The use of washi paper enhances elements of light and shadow, and tatami rooms with bamboo woven floors reference elements found in traditional Japanese houses, while the colour purple – which represents the city’s rich heritage and culture – is also incorporated throughout the entire property.

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Wander through the expertly landscaped trails and walkways along the water’s edge as you head over to Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, which also shares the historic grounds. Residents have exclusive access to the dining, spa and wellness amenities at the Hotel in addition to unique experiences curated by Mamgain and his team. A traditional rickshaw tour, a private Maiko performance and a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony at the Shakusui-Tei Tea House are just a few of the unique Kyoto experiences the team can arrange. “Discover local Japanese delicacies and crafts in the alleys of Kawaramachi or explore the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple or Nijo Castle,” recommends Mamgain. When you live with Four Seasons, the entire city becomes your playground, with expert guides on hand to lead the way.

A seamless city lifestyle

Living at Four Seasons means you have a dedicated residential team on call, ready to take care of home maintenance, housekeeping, security, culinary requests or making dinner reservations at your favourite restaurant. It’s worry-free homeownership at its most intuitive, ensuring complete peace of mind behind the scenes while providing exceptional service whenever you need it. Life in the city is effortless with Four Seasons on your side.

See what it’s like to live with Four Seasons