How about heading to a Starbucks where you can enjoy some beautiful scenery? In every region of Japan, there are a number of branches of the coffee chain that are surrounded by marvelous scenes. This article introduces you to five Starbucks branches boasting gorgeous sights that you will definitely want to visit at least once. When you read about the expansive seas, luscious greenery, and atmospheric streetscapes, you won't be able to suppress the desire to pay them a visit yourself.
1. Hakodate Bayside Branch (Hokkaido)
Hakodate is the primary tourist city in Hokkaido. When Japanese people think of Hakodate, their minds are drawn to the famous historical landmark Goryakugo and the beautiful views on offer from Mt. Hakodate. If you are in the area, then you will want to make the trip to Starbucks' Hakodate Bayside Branch, which looks out across the the bay area. A gorgeous view of the sea and Mt. Hakodate stretch out in front of your eyes. With more than 110 seats available, this spacious interior is perfect for relaxing in. There are also a variety of tumblers available with designs based on the local area, so make sure to pick one up as a souvenir of your travels.
Getting there: An approximately 20-minute walk from Hakodate Station on the JR Hakodate Line
2. Toyama Kansui Park Branch (Toyama)
Toyama is famous as the home of a number of Japan's most beautiful natural sights. A number of these scenes rise to the level of world class, such as the Ainokura and Suganuma Gassho-Zukuri Villages, which are World Heritage Sites, and the Kurobe Gorge Railway that runs through beautiful valleys. It is among this wonderful scenery that the Kansui Park branch of Starbucks is nestled, so attractive that many have dubbed it the "most beautiful Starbucks in the world". Through the glass walls of the store, you can look out upon the stunning greenery of Toyama Kansui Park and the slowly-flowing river. Why not spend some time getting in touch with nature while relaxing in this great, expansive space?
Getting there: An approximately 15-minute walk from Toyama Station on the JR Takayama Main Line or JR Hokuriku Main Line
3. Kobe Nishi-maiko Branch (Hyogo)
Kobe is famous for being a port town. Its history of diplomatic relations with places outside Japan has given the streetscape an exotic feel that remains to the present day. If you are looking to enjoy a view that you could only find in a port town, then you should make a trip to the Kobe Nishi-maiko branch of Starbucks. From here, you can gaze upon the longest suspension bridge in the world, the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, which stretches across the Akashi Strait. The shimmering waters of the magnificent sea and the gentle pulsating of the waves are also a beautiful sight to behold.
Getting there: An approximately 5-minute walk from Nishi-Maiko Station on the Sanyo Electric Railway Line
4. Fukuoka Ohori Park Branch (Fukuoka)
Fukuoka is famous as a mecca of food culture. It is home to a wealth of local delicacies such as Hakata Ramen and Motsu Nabe (hot pot made with offal). After you have gotten your fill of delicious local food, how about making your way to the Fukuoka Ohori Park branch of Starbucks and enjoying the beautiful nature with a cup of coffee in hand? This branch is located in the expansive Fukuoka Ohori Park and is surrounded by abundant greenery. It is also extremely popular as a walking trail, with a relaxing atmosphere flowing throughout the park. The interior of the branch is bathed in natural light, soothing the soul.
Getting there: An approximately 5-minute walk from Exit 3 of Ohori-Koen Station on the Kuko Line of the Fukuoka City Subway
5. Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi Branch (Kyoto)
Kyoto is teeming with historical buildings and equally historic streetscapes. In Kyoto's Sanjo Area, you will find the Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi branch of Starbucks, which incorporates some elements of the city's unique culture. For example, at this branch you can experience a famous symbol of the Kyoto summer, the Noryo Yuka. The Noryo Yuka are makeshift seating decks, placed on the river or where you can clearly see the river, from which you can enjoy a meal. The Kamo River flows in front of the Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi Branch, so you can enjoy the gentle sounds of the wind and the river as you take in all that Kyoto has to offer.
*The Noryo Yuka are open from May until September.
Getting there: A 2-minute walk from Exit 7 of Sanjo Station on the Keihan Oto Line and Keihan Main Line
Why not ease your mind while gazing upon some breathtaking scenery with a coffee in hand?
*Please note that the information in this article is from the time of writing or publication and may differ from the latest information.
