Top 5 Most Popular Coffee Shops in Japan

If you’ve ever wandered through a bustling Japanese city and wondered where locals go for a good cup of coffee in peace, you’re not alone. Japan’s cities are full of cafés, but which ones really draw the crowds? A survey of 11,000 men and women reveals the country’s most-frequented coffee shops, ranked by real customer traffic.

Here’s the quick answer: the most visited coffee shop in Japan is Starbucks, favored by 67.5% of respondents. In second place is Doutor Coffee (54.5%), followed by Tully’s Coffee (28.3%), Saint Marc Coffee (24.5%), and in fifth place, Komeda Coffee (17.3%).

What the Survey Revealed

RecordJapan conducted a poll of 11,000 Japanese men and women, asking them to name the coffee shops they visit most often. Respondents were allowed to select multiple options, resulting in a ranked list that highlights both global chains and beloved domestic brands. The numbers reflect actual foot traffic and consumer preference—not just brand recognition.

The Top 5 Coffee Shops in Japan

Here are the top five coffee shops as ranked by the survey:

• 1. Starbucks Coffee – 67.5%
• 2. Doutor Coffee – 54.5%
• 3. Tully’s Coffee – 28.3%
• 4. Saint Marc Coffee – 24.5%
• 5. Komeda Coffee – 17.3%

These percentages show how frequently people choose each chain when they want coffee. While international giants dominate the top spots, Japanese brand Doutor holds strong, and Komeda remains a key player in the domestic scene.

Why These Cafés Stand Out

Starbucks leads the list due to its widespread presence, consistent quality, and comfortable environment—traits valued by both locals and tourists. Doutor, a major Japanese chain, is known for its affordability and accessibility. Tully’s, originally American but popular in Japan, offers a cozy, café-like vibe. Saint Marc and Komeda provide more traditional, sometimes heritage-style interiors, often attracting an older or more leisurely crowd.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which coffee shop is the most popular in Japan?

Starbucks is the most popular coffee shop in Japan, chosen by 67.5% of respondents in the survey. Its combination of global brand trust, extensive locations, and consistent experience makes it the top choice for most coffee drinkers.

Is Doutor Coffee a Japanese brand?

Yes, Doutor Coffee is a Japanese brand. It ranked second in the survey with 54.5% of respondents naming it as a frequent choice, known for its wide availability and budget-friendly pricing.

What is Komeda Coffee?

Komeda Coffee is a Japanese café chain that ranked fifth in the popularity survey with 17.3% of the vote. It is especially popular among older demographics and is known for its classic, relaxed interior and dessert offerings alongside coffee.

Are international coffee chains more popular than Japanese ones in Japan?

Not necessarily—while Starbucks (an international chain) is the most popular, Doutor (a Japanese brand) comes in second place, showing strong domestic competition. Both international and local chains have significant followings in Japan.

Do these rankings reflect coffee quality or just brand popularity?

The rankings reflect where people actually go most often, which includes factors like convenience, atmosphere, and brand loyalty—not just the quality of the coffee itself. However, consistent quality is likely a factor in repeat visits.

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