Since its joint‐venture establishment in 1995, Starbucks Coffee Japan kicked off with its flagship Ginza Matsuzakaya‐dōri store and swiftly expanded to become a beloved coffee chain across the country. Boasting menus infused with uniquely Japanese “wa” aesthetics, region‐exclusive locations such as the Kengo Kuma–designed Roastery Tokyo, and spacious, relaxing interiors, each visit feels special. Furthermore, seasonal limited‐edition drinks and a lineup of new summer goods continually debut, offering fresh discoveries every time. In this article, we present a comprehensive guide—from the brand’s history and must‐visit stores to the latest menu items and merch.
Contents
What Is Starbucks Coffee Japan?
Brand History
Entry into the Japanese Market
In October 1995, Starbucks Coffee International—a subsidiary of Starbucks in the U.S. responsible for its global expansion—entered into a joint‐venture agreement with Japanese retail and dining giant Sazaby Inc. (now Sazaby League Ltd.), establishing Starbucks Coffee Japan Co., Ltd. This partnership laid the groundwork for the brand’s store rollout and awareness in Japan.
In 1996, the first directly operated store, “Ginza Matsuzakaya-dōri,” opened in Tokyo’s Ginza district. As Starbucks’ first location outside North America, it introduced a new coffee culture to Japan and drew widespread attention. The company also announced an ambitious plan to open 10–12 stores in the Tokyo metropolitan area within its first 18 months.
By the end of March 2000, Starbucks Coffee Japan had grown to 117 locations nationwide, firmly establishing itself as a beloved coffee chain across Japan. Its casual yet premium experience has become woven into the daily lives of countless Japanese customers, maintaining strong popularity to this day.
Japan’s Unique Concept
Incorporating “Wa” Aesthetics
Respecting Japan’s four seasons and traditional culture, Starbucks Coffee Japan integrates “wa” (Japanese) elements throughout its store designs and menu offerings. For example, in spring the “Sakura” series features cherry-blossom–inspired pink hues and in-store decorations include fresh blossoms and washi-paper lighting to create a festive atmosphere. In autumn, matcha and hōjicha beverages debut alongside interiors built from bamboo and wood, crafting a hospitality experience that is distinctly Japanese.
Region-Exclusive Locations
- Starbucks Reserve® Roastery Tokyo (Tokyo)
One of only six Roastery locations worldwide—and the sole one in Japan—this flagship was designed and built from the ground up by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. Its four-story atrium showcases towering copper casks adorned with delicate cherry-blossom motifs, allowing guests to witness the entire journey from roasting to storage. It’s a multisensory celebration of coffee craftsmanship and innovation. - Starbucks Coffee LINKS UMEDA 2nd Floor Store (Osaka)
Nestled on the second floor of the LINKS UMEDA complex, this two-level café embraces the “SHINRIN-YOKU TREE” concept, surrounding visitors with the warmth of wood from the moment they enter. Upper levels feature towering pillars made from locally sourced Kawachi timber, and adjustable lighting mimics the gentle dappling of sunlight through leaves, offering a forest-bathing atmosphere in the heart of the city. - Starbucks Coffee JR Nara Station Old Station Building Store (Nara)
Housed within the preserved 1934 Nara Station building, a designated Modern Industrial Heritage site, this café retains its stately façade and grand coffered ceilings. An on-site tourist information desk makes it a convenient stop for both residents and travelers, blending historic elegance with modern comfort. - Starbucks Coffee Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya Store (Kyoto)
This location transforms a traditional townhome along the approach to Kiyomizu-dera into a café that seamlessly blends into its historic surroundings. White noren curtains and tatami seating invite guests to remove their shoes and relax, while exposed ceiling beams and artwork by JUN INOUE create a harmonious mix of heritage and contemporary design. Sofa seating is also provided for visitors less accustomed to Japanese custom, making it a truly inclusive space.
About Their Stores
Store Atmosphere
Interior Design
The interior is warm and inviting, centered around wood and fabric accents, with seating arranged generously to ensure comfort. Large windows allow natural light to flood in, and seasonal decorations and artwork are tastefully placed to create a relaxing environment for both solo visitors and groups.
Free Wi-Fi and Power Outlets
All locations provide complimentary Wi-Fi—simply connect to the “at_STARBUCKS_Wi2” network. Many of the counter and sofa seats are equipped with power outlets, so you can charge your laptop or smartphone and stay as long as you like.
In-store BGM
A curated selection of mellow jazz and acoustic music plays at a volume that harmonizes with the store’s ambiance. Some outlets feature limited-edition playlists aligned with the season or current promotions, offering a fresh musical backdrop with each visit.
Menu Highlights
Store-Exclusive Drinks
Matcha Pistachio Mousse Tea Latte
A tea latte where the umami and gentle bitterness of matcha are enveloped by a fluffy pistachio foam.
Iced
Tall ¥720
Matcha Green Tea Sparkling
Matcha shot and tonic water mixed with Starbucks’ original green citrus syrup for a refreshing matcha soda.
Iced
Tall ¥690
Stone-Ground Matcha Pistachio Mousse Tea Latte
A tea latte using stone-ground matcha, wrapped in smooth pistachio foam for rich flavor.
Iced
Tall ¥1,200
Stone-Ground Matcha Green Tea Sparkling
A matcha soda made with stone-ground matcha shot, tonic water, and green citrus syrup.
Iced
Tall ¥1,100
Cold Brew Soda Green Apple & Lime
Crisp cold brew combined with tart green apple and lime, topped with citrus tonic water for a perfect summer sparkling beverage.
Iced
¥990
Cold Brew Soda Passionfruit & Apricot
Light cold brew accented with sweet-tart passionfruit and apricot, finished with citrus tonic water for a refreshing summer drink.
Iced
¥990
Starbucks Reserve® Oriaato™ Cold Brew Float
Smooth cold brew topped with vanilla ice cream and finished with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance both flavors.
Iced
Tall ¥980 / Short ¥940
Cold Brew Green Fizz Passionfruit & Lychee
Light cold brew with tart passionfruit and lychee, topped with green citrus tonic for a refreshing summer fizz.
Iced
¥1,100
Cold Brew Green Fizz Apple & Cucumber
Crisp cold brew with apple pieces and cucumber notes, finished with green citrus tonic for a cool summer drink.
Iced
¥1,100
Rice Koji Milk Brown Sugar Warabi Mochi Parfait Latte
Espresso blended with naturally sweet rice koji milk, topped with warabi mochi, ice cream, whipped cream, brown sugar syrup, and kinako for a Japanese-style parfait latte.
Iced
¥1,500
Rice Koji Milk Brown Sugar Warabi Mochi Latte
Espresso combined with naturally sweet rice koji milk, topped with brown sugar syrup and warabi mochi for a chewy texture.
Iced
¥1,100
Starbucks Reserve® Oriaato™ Golden Gelato Cold Brew Float
Smooth cold brew paired with a luxurious gelato made with olive oil, finished with a sprinkle of sea salt to highlight the flavors.
Iced
¥1,050
Tea Espresso Green Fizz Peach & Lemon
TEAVANA™ Citrus Lavender Sage tea espresso mixed with peach pieces, tonic water, and a spray of green citrus syrup for a light, fruity refresher.
Iced
¥1,100
Teavana™ Frozen Pineapple Kona Pop
Inspired by Hawaii, this blend mixes TEAVANA™ Pineapple Kona Pop tea with pineapple pieces, ice, and is topped with vanilla ice cream and coconut-flavored mousse.
Iced
¥1,500
Rice Koji Milk Brown Sugar Warabi Mochi Hojicha Tea Latte
Hojicha tea combined with naturally sweet rice koji milk, topped with brown sugar syrup and warabi mochi for a comforting, textured latte.
Iced
¥1,100
Teavana™ Frozen Matcha Pistachio
A dessert-like drink combining rich matcha umami, creamy pistachio milk, and a touch of ice cream sweetness.
Iced
¥1,400
506 Del Viento
A tropical cocktail inspired by Starbucks’ Costa Rican coffee farm, featuring fresh kiwi flavors.
Iced
¥2,200
506 Del Viento (Spirit-Free)
A non-alcoholic tropical cocktail with fresh kiwi inspired by Starbucks’ Costa Rican coffee farm.
Iced
¥1,700
Aribiarmo™ Colada Flight
A flight of three Pinã Colada twists, each with a unique flavor profile.
Iced
¥3,600
Aribiarmo™ Colada Flight (Spirit-Free)
A non-alcoholic flight of three Pinã Colada twists, each offering a different taste.
Iced
¥3,100
Teavana™ Spritzer Citrus Lavender Sage
A refreshing cocktail blending Teavana™ Citrus Lavender Sage tea with white wine and gin.
Iced
¥2,000
Citrus Lavender Sage Tea Soda
A spirit-free refreshment combining Teavana™ Citrus Lavender Sage tea with soda water.
Iced
¥1,700
Nakameguro Coffee & Tea Drip
A cocktail brewed via hand-drip with crushed coffee beans, Kaga-bou hojicha, soba shochu, and hon-mirin.
Iced
¥3,300
Summer New Arrivals
As of July 2025
Japan-Exclusive
Been There Series Stainless Bottle JAPAN Summer (473ml)
Part of the “Been There Series,” this stainless steel bottle is inspired by the feeling of summer in Japan.
¥5,450
Been There Series Mug JAPAN Summer (414ml)
Part of the “Been There Series,” this mug captures the essence of summer in Japan.
¥2,600
ENJOY THE DAY OUT
2WAY Stainless Cup with Holder Mat White (355ml)
A 2-in-1 stainless steel cup that holds a to-go paper cup.
¥2,950
Handle Lid Jug Tumbler (1892ml)
A super large-capacity tumbler ideal for staying hydrated in summer.
¥4,600
Stanley Stainless Bottle with Cup Check (503ml)
A large-capacity Stanley stainless bottle with a convenient cup.
¥6,450
MiiR Handle Cold Cup Tumbler White (932ml)
A large stainless cold cup tumbler with handle.
¥7,200
Stanley Stainless Tumbler Light Blue (473ml)
A refreshingly light blue Stanley stainless tumbler.
¥5,200
Reusable Cold Cup Colorful Flake (710ml)
A reusable cup with colorful flakes that makes summer drinks extra fun.
¥700
Enjoy the “Something Special” Found Only at Starbucks Japan
Starbucks Coffee Japan, filled with distinctly Japanese touches, combines historic store expansions with “wa” (Japanese) aesthetics to create captivating spaces. From the Kengo Kuma–designed Roastery to region-exclusive locations repurposed from old station buildings and traditional townhouses, each venue offers a unique experience—complete with free Wi-Fi and relaxing in-store BGM to encourage lingering. Plus, the array of limited-edition matcha and hojicha drinks and the season’s newest summer merch make perfect souvenirs. While you’re in Japan, be sure to enjoy these one-of-a-kind beverages and items at Starbucks throughout the country.
