Starbucks in Japan
Last updated July 2026
Starbucks Japan operates over 1,800 locations across the country, making it one of the most widespread Western coffee chains in Japan. Whether you want a familiar latte or a Japan-exclusive seasonal drink, Starbucks is easy to find in virtually every Japanese city — and a few of the locations are worth seeking out in their own right.
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Tokyo has the highest concentration of Starbucks, with locations throughout Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza, Roppongi, and beyond. Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and Sapporo all have multiple locations. Even mid-sized Japanese cities and regional train hubs typically have at least one or two Starbucks.
Japan-Exclusive Starbucks Drinks
Part of the draw of Starbucks Japan is the seasonal and regional menu that differs from the US. Notable Japan-only or Japan-focused drinks include:
- Sakura Latte / Sakura Frappuccino — Available in spring (roughly February through April), these cherry blossom-themed drinks are a beloved Starbucks Japan tradition
- Hojicha Latte / Frappuccino — Made with roasted Japanese green tea, offering a warmer, toastier, less sweet flavor than matcha
- Matcha drinks — A wider and higher-quality matcha range than US Starbucks, including regional blends and premium ceremonial matcha options
- Seasonal specials — Each season (summer, autumn, winter) brings rotating flavors and collaborations unavailable outside Japan
All standard Starbucks drinks (lattes, americanos, cold brew, Frappuccinos, flat whites) are available on the regular menu. Sizes use the standard English names: Short, Tall, Grande, and Venti — with "Short" (8 oz) more commonly ordered in Japan than in the US.
Notable Starbucks Locations in Japan
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo (Nakameguro)
Located along the Meguro River canal in the upscale Nakameguro neighborhood, this four-story flagship is one of the most impressive Starbucks locations in the world. It features on-site roasting, a full bar with coffee cocktails, and a bakery from famed Italian pastry chef Rocco Princi. Best visited on a weekday to avoid the longest waits.
Ninenzaka Starbucks (Kyoto)
One of the most photographed Starbucks in the world, this location near Kyoto's Higashiyama historic district is housed in a 100-year-old traditional machiya townhouse. It features tatami mat seating — a rare sight at any Starbucks globally. Lines can form on weekends and holidays; arrive before 10am for the smoothest entry.
Ordering and Payment Tips
Starbucks Japan menus are displayed in both Japanese and English, and staff at tourist-area locations often speak some English. Drink names are standard English (or transliterated into Japanese phonetics), so ordering is generally straightforward.
The US Starbucks app and Starbucks Rewards points do not transfer to Japan. Pay by credit card, cash, or Suica/Pasmo IC card. A Starbucks Japan app exists separately but requires a Japanese payment method. The simplest approach for travelers is credit card payment.
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Open the search tool →Frequently Asked Questions
How many Starbucks are there in Japan?
Starbucks Japan operates over 1,800 locations, making Japan one of the largest Starbucks markets in the world.
Does Japan have different Starbucks drinks?
Yes — Japan has a range of exclusive seasonal drinks including the Sakura Latte (spring), Hojicha Frappuccino (roasted green tea), and various matcha-based beverages not available in the US. Seasonal menus rotate throughout the year.
Where is the famous Starbucks in Kyoto?
The Ninenzaka Starbucks is near the Higashiyama historic district in Kyoto, housed in a 100-year-old traditional Japanese townhouse with tatami mat seating. It is one of the most unique Starbucks locations in the world and draws long lines on weekends.
Can I use my US Starbucks app in Japan?
The US Starbucks app does not work at Japanese Starbucks. Pay by credit card, cash, or IC card (Suica/Pasmo). A Starbucks Japan app exists but requires a Japanese payment method — most travelers simply use a credit card.
Can I use my US Starbucks card or app in Japan?
No — US Starbucks Rewards cards and the US Starbucks app cannot be used at Starbucks Japan locations. Starbucks Japan operates as a separate company with its own app and Starbucks Card system. Payment is accepted by cash, credit card, IC card (Suica, Pasmo), Apple Pay, and Google Pay at most locations.
What is the most famous Starbucks in Japan?
The Starbucks Reserve in Ninenzaka, Kyoto is one of the world's most-photographed Starbucks locations. It occupies a traditional machiya townhouse over 100 years old in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, featuring tatami mat seating and Japanese architectural details. The Nakameguro Reserve Roastery in Tokyo is another standout.
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