Japan’s 13 Most Unique Starbucks Concept Stores

If you’ve ever wandered into a Starbucks and thought, ‘Is this it?’, Japan offers something very different. While the global coffee chain is known for consistency, Japan has quietly created 13 one-of-a-kind concept stores—each with its own architectural style, cultural story, and unique interior design. These aren’t your typical coffee shops. They’re destinations.

There are 13 distinctive Starbucks concept stores across Japan, with five in Tokyo, one in Kamakura, two in Kyoto, one in Kobe, two in Fukuoka, and one each in Toyama and Izumo Taisha. If you're visiting Tokyo, you can hit five in one trip—or six if you add Kamakura.

Kamakura Goryōcho Store: The Only Starbucks with a Swimming Pool

This Kamakura concept store is housed in the former residence of manga artist Yokoyama Ryūichi, a beloved figure in Japanese comics. The building, once a hub for artists and intellectuals, was saved from demolition and relocated from Kōchi Prefecture. Notably, the original swimming pool, cherry blossom tree, and wisteria trellis were preserved. It’s the only Starbucks in the world with a pool on-site.

The store is located at 15-11 Goryōcho, Kamakura, Kanagawa. Hours are 08:00–21:00 (irregular closures). Access is via the underground passage behind Kamakura Station. Don’t expect special menu items—visit for the architecture and garden views, especially when the wisteria blooms in spring.

Address: 15-11 Goryōcho, Kamakura, Kanagawa
Phone: 0467-61-2161
Hours: 08:00–21:00 (irregular)
Transport: Kamakura Station

Tokyo’s Concept Stores: Five in the Capital

Tokyo hosts five of Japan’s Starbucks concept locations. Among them, the Omotesando store designed by architect Kengo Kuma stands out. It uses wooden elements to create a layered, textured space inspired by the nearby Dazaifu Tenmangū Shrine. Though it requires a trip to Kyushu to see that particular site, Kuma’s Tokyo interpretation brings a similar organic minimalism to the city.

Other Tokyo concept stores include the Ueno Onshi Park location, designed with cherry wood and local artisan decor, and featuring seasonal displays with hundreds of real sakura trees during hanami season. Each Tokyo store offers a distinct vibe, from urban park integration to high-concept materials.

Kyoto Sanjō Ōhashi Store: Sip Under Kyoto’s Open-Air Floors

This Kyoto concept store brings the traditional yuka (open-air flooring) experience of the Kamo River’s summer cooling platforms to a modern café setting. With floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Kamo River and views of nearby Mount Hiei, the store offers a serene spot to enjoy a caramel macchiato while watching boats and pedestrians pass by.

The interior features unique furnishings and a prime riverside terrace. Open until 23:00, it’s a late-night coffee option in a city known for early closures. Seasonally, the views and breezes create a uniquely Kyoto moment.

Address: 113 Nakajimachō, Nakaīku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-213-2326
Hours: 08:00–23:00 (irregular)
Transport: Kyoto Sanjō Station

Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Store: A Century-Old Western-Style Home

Originally built in 1907 as an American family residence, this building survived the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake, was restored, and reopened in 2009 as one of Japan’s oldest Starbucks locations. The two-storey wooden structure retains its original layout, including a fireplace and period rooms on the upper floor.

The store uses the historic Starbucks logo and preserves much of the original architectural detail. It’s a quiet place to enjoy coffee in a building that has welcomed countless residents and visitors over more than a century.

Address: 3-1-31 Kitano-chō, Chūō-ku, Kobe
Phone: 078-230-6302
Hours: 08:00–22:00 (irregular)
Transport: Kitano-Ijinkan-mae Bus Stop

Why These Stores Stand Out

Unlike standard Starbucks outlets, these concept stores are designed to reflect local history, architecture, and culture. Some reuse heritage buildings, others showcase regional artisans, and several offer seasonal design elements like real cherry blossoms or riverside terraces. They’re curated experiences, not just coffee stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Starbucks concept stores are there in Japan?

There are 13 officially recognised Starbucks concept stores in Japan. They are located in Tokyo (5), Kamakura (1), Kyoto (2), Kobe (1), Fukuoka (2), Toyama (1), and Izumo Taisha (1).

Which Starbucks in Japan has a swimming pool?

The Kamakura Goryōcho Store, located in the former home of manga artist Yokoyama Ryūichi, is the only Starbucks in the world with a preserved swimming pool on the property.

What makes the Ueno Onshi Park Starbucks unique?

This store integrates local wood varieties and artisan-crafted decor, and features up to 300 real sakura trees for seasonal hanami decoration, creating an outdoor café atmosphere in a busy urban park.

Is the Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Starbucks in an old building?

Yes, it’s housed in a historic Western-style residence built in 1907. The building survived the 1995 earthquake, was restored, and has been operating as a Starbucks since 2009, making it one of Japan’s oldest Starbucks locations.

Do any of these concept stores serve special menu items?

Most concept stores serve the same menu as regular Starbucks locations. Their main appeal lies in their architecture, interior design, and cultural or historical significance rather than exclusive food or drinks.

Which Tokyo Starbucks concept stores can I visit in one trip?

You can visit five Starbucks concept stores in Tokyo on a single trip. If you include the Kamakura Goryōcho Store, you can easily visit six in one journey along the Tokaido corridor.

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