Rich in matcha! Matcha sweets in Kamakura are a must-try!

January 2025 Seasonal up date : english-2

Matcha sweets, with their deep green hue and subtly bitter aroma, have transcended the realm of trends to become a beloved classic.

In Kamakura, you can enjoy unique matcha treats that blend seamlessly with the city’s history and natural beauty, exuding an air of traditional Japanese elegance. From matcha shiratama served at charming sweet shops steeped in the atmosphere of the ancient capital to rich matcha cakes offered at popular cafés, every treat is a luxurious delight that satisfies the heart.

There are also matcha soft-serve ice creams perfect for enjoying during a leisurely stroll. Whether it’s a hidden gem you’d love to visit between sightseeing spots or a serene café where you can unwind, this guide introduces handpicked recommendations for Kamakura’s finest matcha sweets and the places to enjoy them.

Each matcha creation promises to captivate both your taste buds and your soul!

Nagon Shiruko Shop’s
“Matcha Anmitsu” and “Uji Kintoki (Shaved Ice)”

Nagon Shiruko is a sweet shop highly recommended for both lovers of red bean paste and those who may not typically favor it. Their red bean paste is so delicious that every dish they offer is a treat. For their shiruko (sweet red bean soup), there’s even a secret tip: you can request extra mochi as a refill!

Their Matcha Anmitsu is a delightful dish featuring kanten jelly bathed in a sweet matcha syrup, generously topped with red bean paste. Interestingly, this dessert was originally a “staff meal” before being added to the menu.

Starting in May, they also serve Uji Matcha Shaved Ice, a refreshing treat made with high-quality matcha. At around 700 yen, it’s not only delicious but also reasonably priced.

Address: 1-5-10 Komachi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone: 0467-22-3105

Just a short walk from Kamakura Station, right off Komachi Street.

RURU KAMAKURA Matcha and Hojicha Terrine” and rich “Matcha Latte”

Located just off Komachi Street in Kamakura, RURU KAMAKURA is a modern café situated in a two-story commercial building. Its signature feature is the “Wet Sansui” table, inspired by a Japanese garden. Here, you can enjoy their exquisite Matcha and Hojicha Terrine.

Pair it with their thoughtfully prepared Matcha Latte, and you’ll find yourself completely relaxed.

In recent years, alongside matcha, hojicha flavors have gained significant popularity in Japan. With its distinct roasted aroma and a hint of pleasant bitterness, a Hojicha Latte is another highly recommended choice.

Address: 1-6-28 Yukinoshita, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Lamp Yukinoshita 2A
Phone: 0467-39-6396

Located on the second floor of a commercial building. Look for the tiled flooring as a landmark, climb the stairs, and turn around to find the café

Sabo Kirara’s “Uji Matcha Shiratama Anmitsu”

Sabo Kirara, located on the way to Zeniarai Benten from Kamakura Station, is a popular sweet shop that consistently draws long lines. Their anmitsu, featuring freshly made warm shiratama topped with sweet red bean paste, is a must-try.

Among their offerings, the Uji Matcha Shiratama Anmitsu drizzled with matcha syrup is highly recommended. Despite its generous portion, the accompanying pickles and kombu tea provide the perfect balance, making it easy to enjoy every bite.

Address: 16-7 Onari-cho, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone: 0467-24-9741

This shop is popular among international visitors as well, as they offer services in English.

La Boutique de Yukinoshita Kamakura’s Matcha Gateau

La Boutique de Yukinoshita Kamakura is the writer’s favorite patisserie in Kamakura, and their matcha-flavored cakes are a must-try. The combination of matcha and fresh cream results in a light, smooth, and aromatic cake. If you’re lucky enough to come across them, the matcha macarons are also exceptional.

Additionally, if you spot a matcha “bonsai” cake with sauce injected via a pipette, it’s highly recommended. Cakes and macarons that are not always available are offered at “Pâtisserie Yukinoshita.” The consistent choice, though, is their rich and decadent matcha layer cake—a true delight for matcha lovers.

Momiji Chaya’s “Matcha Tiramisu”

Momiji Chaya, located on Komachi Street, also has a branch on Omachi Street near Kamakura Station. The Omachi Street area, situated opposite to Kamakura Station’s East Exit, offers a quieter, more local shopping street that leads to Yuigahama Street. In recent years, many popular shops have emerged along this route.

Omachi Street provides a more relaxed atmosphere with most shops offering seating without the need to wait in lines.

Near the station’s entrance, you’ll find a spacious Momiji Chaya. Alongside light meals, their must-try item is the matcha tiramisu served in a masu box. It’s a rich, decadent treat that perfectly captures the essence of traditional Japanese sweets.

Address: 10-2 Onari-cho, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Maison Kamakura 1F
Phone: 0467-60-4316

With a café space available, it’s perfect for meetings or casual gatherings.

Tenshin-an’s “Koke Parfait” (Moss Parfait)

At a Zen-inspired shop with the concept of “Touching a little bit of Kamakura,” you can enjoy matcha in a teacup passed down from Kitakamakura Kichujo Kiln, which carries on the tradition of Kitaoji Rosanjin’s pottery.

A must-try here is the authentic “Kenchin Jiru,” but the “Koke Parfait” is also highly recommended. Topped with generous matcha powder, this dessert beautifully resembles a scene from the garden itself.

After savoring Kenchin Jiru and onigiri, experience a moment of mindfulness by participating in zazen meditation in the Zen room. Finally, indulge in the parfait and matcha to fully immerse yourself in the essence of Kamakura.

Address: 7 Yamanochi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone: 0467-55-9350

Located near Kencho-ji in Kitakamakura.

Kamakura Chacha’s “Gelato with Selectable Intensity” and “Matcha Soft Cream”

Kamakura Chacha’s gelato is beloved by both locals and tourists. When you’re in the mood for something rich, their gelato featuring the highest concentration of matcha powder is a must-try, offering a strong, indulgent matcha flavor.

Both the gelato and soft cream are subtly sweet, allowing the full enjoyment of matcha’s deep, earthy taste.

Made with high-quality Shizuoka-grown tea leaves, these cold desserts are no longer just a summer treat—they’ve become a beloved staple throughout the year.

Address: 12-1 Onari-cho, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone: 0467-24-8820

Hatoya Kamakura’s “Matcha Latte”

The matcha sweets stand, renowned for its exceptional Uji matcha, originated in Arashiyama, Kyoto.
The matcha latte crafted by the former barista owner, using carefully selected matcha, is a truly indulgent experience. The skilled staff ensure that the expertly prepared matcha harmonizes perfectly with milk, allowing the rich aroma to shine without overpowering the flavor.
For those seeking the finest quality matcha in Japan, treat yourself to a luxurious cup at Hatoya Kamakura.

Address: 11-37 Onari-cho, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone: 0467-53-7335