Koso-an is a traditional teahouse in Tokyo and it offers a quintessential Japanese experience that all first-timers to Tokyo should try.

Enjoying a Japanese tea session in a traditional teahouse that overlooks a Japanese garden should be on everyone’s bucket list. Enjoy some quiet moments and embrace the peacefulness while eating traditional Japanese desserts & tea.

And you can do just that at Koso-an. Here’s why you should add the humble teahouse to your itinerary for your next visit to Tokyo.

Koso-an is tucked in a quiet corner of Jiyugaoka. You wouldn’t otherwise know it is a teahouse unless you pay close attention, for all it has is a small wooden signboard which reads ‘open’.

Follow the stone pathway and walk across the pretty little Japanese garden and you will be led to a pavilion. It isn’t a very big one; just enough to sit about 20 people. That is why a line always forms, but good things are worth the wait.

On the menu, you do not get many choices—just a few regular Nippon drinks and sweet treats in the likes of matcha tea, matcha desserts and shiratama zensai (red beans with dumplings).

Anmitsu (¥830) is a summer favourite. A gorgeous bowl of fruits and jelly, topped with bean jam and served with a cup of tea, this is a simple yet authentic Japanese treat.

Not too big a fan of sweets? There is the Macha (¥830)—a serving of bitter and creamy Japanese green tea with a homemade confectionery.

You see, nothing at Koso-an is overly fancy; yet, it hits all the right spots with its homeliness, simplicity, and authenticity.

Koso-an
1 Chome-24-23 Jiyugaoka, Meguro, Tokyo 152-0035, Japan
Tel: +81 3 3718 4203
Thu to Tue (Closed on Wed): 11am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Jiyugaoka