Matcha Stand 1 1/2

A matcha café that feels like a home away from home, nestled just across from the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Born from a personal passion for matcha, design, and antiques.

Note: No more gatekeeping — this is one of our favorite matcha shops in Kyoto.

What’s Matcha Stand 1 1/2?

This woman-owned matcha shop, where the owner often wears a beautiful kimono, is full of heart. With a focus on showcasing her love of matcha alongside traditional Japanese antiques, the small yet carefully curated café specializes in matcha in every form.

On the menu, you’ll find everything from fruit-flavored iced matchas to a traditional cup of hot matcha. Those who order a hot matcha can choose what gorgeous ceramic matcha bowl to drink out of.

On our visit, we tried the most popular item, the Strawberry Matcha Latte. For ¥1,200, we were also able to choose three traditional sweets to enjoy on the side. Sampling the sencha green tea alongside these treats made for a truly traditional (yet casual) experience.

Additionally, there are a few desserts on the menu including parfaits, ice cream, and jelly. You can also try a very lowkey tea ceremony by ordering the Japanese sweet and matcha set for ¥1,300. With this, you’ll learn how to properly whisk matcha.

With only seven seats, the cafe fosters a refined and quiet setting, perfect for thoughtfully sipping your matcha. You are surrounded by beautiful ceramics and art — all available for purchase.

You can also take home matcha-themed postcards and a magazine drawn by the owner, telling the story of how she opened the shop. It makes for a lovely, thoughtful souvenir from your visit(s).

What to know before you visit Matcha Stand 1 1/2

Do you need reservations for Matcha Stand 1 1/2?

No, just simply head upstairs, enter, and order your matcha.

by Jane Pipkin