BLUE BOTTLE COFFEE KAMAKURA CAFE

BLUE BOTTLE COFFEE KAMAKURA CAFE

On May 29, 2026, we opened Blue Bottle Coffee Kamakura Cafe in the heart of Kamakura.

Nestled midway between Kamakura Station and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the cafe sits just beyond a small pathway connecting the lively Komachi Street and Wakamiya Oji Avenue, famous for its iconic Dankazura promenade. Tucked away from the bustle of the city, Kamakura Cafe offers a place to slow down, enjoy a cup of coffee, and immerse yourself in the light, atmosphere, and gentle pace of Kamakura.

At Blue Bottle Coffee, we strive to create coffee experiences that reflect the unique character of each neighborhood through thoughtfully designed spaces and menus. Kamakura Cafe was envisioned as a place that quietly harmonizes with the city’s distinctive scenery and spirit.

Like Oakland, California—the birthplace of Blue Bottle Coffee—Kamakura is surrounded by both mountains and the sea. In this historic city where culture and tradition quietly endure, we invite guests to enjoy carefully crafted coffee prepared by our baristas within a space inspired by the landscapes of ancient Kamakura, offering moments of calm unique to this remarkable destination.

In this journal, we share the story behind the cafe’s design, inspired by Kamakura’s rich local character, along with the menu offerings and exclusive items available only at Kamakura Cafe.

 

        KAMAKURA CAFE DESIGN CONCEPT
Modern interior of a cafe with wooden furniture and spacious layout.

 

The design concept for Kamakura Cafe is “The Landscape of Ancient Kamakura.”

Known for its historic temples and shrines as well as its proximity to both the mountains and the sea, Kamakura possesses a unique atmosphere that has inspired generations. Drawing from this landscape and spirit, the cafe was designed to create a coffee experience that could only exist in this place.

The space was designed by Yasuo Imazu of Ninkipen!, his first cafe design for Blue Bottle Coffee.

 

 

As guests enter through the terrace, one of the first elements that catches the eye is the suspended stainless-steel ceiling. The design draws inspiration from the reflections of light and shadow dancing across the lotus pond beneath the piloti ceiling of the Tsurugaoka Museum, as well as the coffered ceiling of Kencho-ji Temple.

Soft reflections appear across the stainless-steel surface, capturing baristas preparing coffee and guests enjoying conversation or quiet moments. Throughout the day, the ceiling subtly changes its expression as light shifts and people move through the space, creating a gentle sense of flow and time.

Further inside, guests are welcomed into a serene atmosphere reminiscent of the landscapes of historic Kamakura.

The lighting that illuminates the rear wall and communal table incorporates handcrafted Japanese washi paper, creating a soft and inviting texture. Its warm hue is achieved by carefully dyeing the paper with coffee. Each piece was individually crafted by washi artist Wataru Hatano, bringing warmth and tranquility throughout the cafe.

The communal table lighting was inspired by Kamakura’s beloved Bonbori Festival, held annually at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Its distinctive silhouette echoes the shape of the Japanese numeral eight, a motif associated with the shrine, while casting a gentle glow across the gathering space. Coffee grounds are incorporated directly into the washi paper, creating a one-of-a-kind texture that reflects the beauty of craftsmanship.

The fabrics used for the bench seating and chairs draw inspiration from the nuanced colors of Kamakura’s hydrangeas, which bloom throughout the city in early summer.

According to Imazu, his favorite seat is the bench at the back of the cafe. From there, guests can take in the suspended ceiling, the baristas at work, and the softly illuminated washi installations all at once, enjoying coffee while observing the changing interplay of light and materials.

Throughout the cafe, walnut wood accents add warmth and depth to the interior. Combined with the soft lighting, these materials create a welcoming atmosphere that evokes the quiet comfort of a traditional Japanese coffee house.

 

 

The terrace features 16 outdoor seats where guests can enjoy coffee alongside their dogs, with leash hooks thoughtfully installed throughout the space.

Whether taking a break from exploring the city or returning from a walk along the coast, guests are invited to relax and enjoy Kamakura’s gentle atmosphere at their own pace.

 

KAMAKURA CAFE MENU

At Kamakura Cafe, guests can enjoy specialty coffee carefully prepared to order by our baristas, alongside seasonal beverages and a thoughtfully curated food menu designed to pair beautifully with coffee.

Whether you’re beginning a morning stroll through Kamakura or taking a break after exploring the nearby coastline, we invite you to enjoy your favorite coffee and food pairing while spending time at your own pace.

 

COLD BREW

 

Perfect for the warm days of early summer, our Cold Brew offers a clean, refreshing coffee experience.

At Kamakura Cafe, we prepare Cold Brew using a slow cold-extraction process that gradually draws out the coffee’s natural sweetness and complexity. Guests can choose between one of Blue Bottle Coffee’s signature blends or a rotating seasonal single origin coffee.

This method highlights the coffee’s bright, transparent flavors and smooth mouthfeel, finishing with a lingering sweetness reminiscent of caramelized sugar. It is an ideal companion for a relaxing break after exploring the streets of Kamakura or walking along the Shonan coastline.

 

LIÉGE WAFFLE MATCHA
Kamakura Cafe & Harajuku Cafe Exclusive

 

A matcha variation of our beloved Liège Waffle—an iconic Blue Bottle Coffee menu item since the company’s early days—is available exclusively at Kamakura Cafe and Harajuku Cafe.

Each waffle is baked to order and served fresh from the oven.

The matcha used in the batter comes from Kyoto-based tea purveyor Rishoen Chaho, whose teas are also featured in our popular Matcha Latte. Selected specifically for its compatibility with the waffle recipe, this matcha offers a balanced depth and gentle character that complements Kamakura’s tranquil atmosphere.

Made with Hokkaido wheat flour and butter, the waffle combines the subtle bitterness and richness of matcha with the delicate aroma of vanilla paste and a touch of sea salt, creating an elegant sweetness with remarkable depth.

Freshly baked, the waffle is crisp and caramelized on the outside while remaining moist and tender within. Its vibrant matcha notes pair beautifully with the clean flavors of Cold Brew or the roasted character of espresso-based beverages.

 

WAFFLE PARFAIT MATCHA
Kamakura Cafe & Harajuku Cafe Exclusive

From left to right: Waffle Parfait Matcha, Waffle Parfait Mango

For those looking for something a little more indulgent, we also offer a parfait featuring a miniature version of our freshly baked Matcha Liège Waffle.

Warm matcha waffle pieces are paired with Biei Single-Origin Milk Ice Cream from HiO ICE CREAM and finished with a generous dusting of aromatic matcha powder.

The contrast between warm waffle and cold ice cream creates a comforting balance, while the lingering flavor of matcha makes it an ideal treat for a leisurely afternoon coffee break or a pause during a day of sightseeing.

Waffle Parfait Mango

Kamakura Cafe also offers seasonal desserts inspired by the flavors of the moment.

Our Waffle Parfait Mango features a freshly baked mini Liège Waffle paired with HiO ICE CREAM’s Biei Single-Origin Milk Ice Cream and topped with a generous serving of seasonal mango sauce.

The combination of warm waffle, cold ice cream, and the rich fruit character of mango creates a refreshing dessert that perfectly complements the early summer season. We recommend enjoying it alongside your favorite coffee.

 

SANDWICH

From left to right: Saba Potato Sandwich, Pistachio Ham & Cheese Sandwich

 

Saba Potato Sandwich

Created under the supervision of chef Mou Soejima, the Saba Potato Sandwich combines savory grilled mackerel with smooth mashed potatoes, layered with a cheese spread blended with Greek yogurt and finished with rich smoked mayonnaise.

The result is a balanced and satisfying sandwich with both depth and freshness.

Pistachio Ham & Cheese Sandwich

The Pistachio Ham & Cheese Sandwich features pistachio-infused mortadella paired with a creamy cheese spread blended with Greek yogurt.

Each ingredient contributes its own distinct character, creating a nuanced flavor profile carefully developed to complement coffee.

Both sandwiches are served on ciabatta bread, offering a light texture and satisfying bite. They are available exclusively at Kamakura Cafe and Harajuku Cafe.

 

KAMAKURA CAFE LIMITED ITEM
EMBROIDERY ECO BAG — KAMAKURA —

 

To celebrate the opening of Kamakura Cafe, we are offering a special Embroidery Eco Bag — Kamakura — created with Ball & Chain.

The exclusive design features embroidered hydrangeas, one of Kamakura’s most iconic seasonal symbols. Sized slightly smaller than our existing Coffee Leaves and Blue Bottle (White) eco bags, the M-sized bag is ideal for everyday outings and exploring the city.

Designed as a keepsake of time spent in Kamakura, this bag brings a small piece of the city’s charm into daily life.

We invite you to discover it during your visit to Kamakura Cafe.

Available exclusively at Kamakura Cafe

To help make this item available to as many guests as possible, purchase limits may apply.

 

Where history, culture, and nature quietly converge, Kamakura offers a uniquely peaceful atmosphere.

Blue Bottle Coffee Kamakura Cafe was created as a place where guests can slow down and enjoy that atmosphere with a cup of coffee in hand.

Whether you're exploring the city, sharing coffee with someone special, or taking a moment to pause after visiting Kamakura's temples, shrines, and coastline, we hope you'll discover a coffee experience that feels uniquely connected to this remarkable place.

 

Blue Bottle Coffee Kamakura Cafe

Address: 2-8-34 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan
Access: 3-minute walk from Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line and Enoshima Electric Railway)
Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Seating: 38 seats (22 indoor, 16 terrace)

 

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