swimpond coffee

1-4 Jodoji Banbacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8412, Japan
+81 75-741-7395
$$$ Cafe
(61 Reviews)
Price Range ¥1–1,000

Step into the tranquil world of swimpond coffee, a charming café nestled in the serene Sakyo Ward of Kyoto. Located at 1-4 Jodoji Banbacho, this delightful spot is a true hidden gem, celebrated for its simplicity and attentiveness to quality. With a phone number of +81 75-741-7395, it’s easy to locate, but you may need to take a moment to appreciate the inviting logo that marks its entrance—a subtle prelude to what awaits you inside.

As you step through the doors, you’ll immediately feel enveloped by the café’s calming ambiance, designed with minimalistic aesthetics that reflect the owner couple's impeccable taste. This space exudes warmth and hospitality, making it perfect for contemplation or a peaceful gathering with friends. Reviewers continually note the friendly atmosphere and the charming presence of its owners, a husband and wife team who infuse their passion into every cup served.

At swimpond coffee, every morning is awakened by the tantalizing scent of freshly brewed coffee, paired with a menu that's equally enticing. Customers rave about the delicious toast options, especially the cheese toast, which melts in your mouth and is a perfect companion to any drink. For a refreshing burst of flavor, don’t miss out on their banana juice, known for its vibrant taste that captures the essence of fresh ingredients. The café also serves delightful cheesecakes that have tempted many, promising a sweet ending to your morning visit.

Whether you’re stopping by for a light breakfast before exploring the nearby Ginkakuji temple or the Philosopher’s Path, swimpond coffee invites you to indulge in simple perfection. With its early opening hours, it's an ideal spot to fuel up for your day before wandering through the enchanting streets of Kyoto. Experience the serene joy that comes from savoring well-crafted coffee and food, and allow the gorgeous surroundings to inspire your thoughts.

In the words of one satisfied visitor, swimpond coffee is more than just a café; it’s a lovely little peaceful escape that beckons you back time and time again. So make sure to add this quaint establishment to your Kyoto itinerary—you won’t regret soaking in its peaceful ambiance and delightful offerings!

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Dessert
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Payments
Cash only
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

61 Reviews
Taylor Nielsen

07 Oct 2025

A perfect place for a morning light toast and delicious coffee. Simple perfection.

Giuliano

28 Sep 2025

Lovely little peaceful café with friendly owners near Ginkakuji and philosophers path. Opens early morning so great before an outing. Their toast is fantastic, especially their cheese toast and banana juice. Been here three times and will definitely come again.

Matthew Brien

05 Sep 2025

Lovely stop. Charming, little café owned and served by husband and wife!

Lauren Nightingale

20 Aug 2025

walked past on an afternoon stroll. minimalistic to a t, highly aesthetically pleasing and calming. right place for contemplation in a serene surrounding.

Yue Wu

10 Aug 2025

It is owned and managed by a mid-age couple, friendly and low-key. It locates at a quiet corner along the street, which doesn’t make much attention unless you take a good look at its logo on front. Everything in it shows the great aesthetic taste of the owners. The menu is in both Japanese and English. Toast and coffee is a great choice of combination, but cheesecake won’t be wrong either. I would like to spend time here do some reading or just do nothing but enjoying the time spent here. Coffee is great, deep roasted and aroma enriched. Also very close to ホホホ座. It is a must-visit spot if you come nearby.

GMT

20 Jul 2025

Small minimalist decor. Maybe six seats at a counter. Excellent coffee. You can choose the variety of beans, and the coffee is brewed with much care and attention. If you are a connoisseur of coffee this is the place to visit.

Wei Chuan Seah

29 Jun 2025

Beautiful quaint little zen place run by a couple who served the best eggs and toast sandwich & cheesecake we have ever tried in Japan. The silence here is mesmerising

Robin

15 Jun 2025

Delicious coffee and food! The most simple wonderful buttery piece of toast I have ever had. So quiet and peaceful. It felt like our parents treating us to breakfast in the most wonderful silent way. A special moment we will remember.

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