On July 5, 2026, a special one-day cafe called Kuro to Ku will open at Saisho-ji Temple, one of the Koto Sanzan temples in Shiga Prefecture. This unique cafe offers visitors a chance to enjoy the temple’s beautiful green maple leaves and moss scenery while savoring soy-based drinks and desserts crafted by Ikkyuan Co., Ltd.
Travelers visiting Japan in summer can experience a peaceful retreat at this historic temple site, well known for its national treasure main hall. While Saisho-ji is famous for its vibrant autumn foliage, this event highlights the fresh greenery of spring and summer, offering a new way to appreciate the area. The cafe’s location within a traditional temple lodging provides an exclusive atmosphere to relax and refresh during sightseeing.
About the One-Day Cafe Kuro to Ku at Saisho-ji
The cafe is hosted inside Kanshobo, one of the remaining temple lodgings on the Saisho-ji grounds. Guests can enjoy the serene setting surrounded by blue maple leaves and moss, a contrast to the temple’s well-known autumn colors. The name “Kuro to Ku” comes from the black cat living at the temple, adding a charming local touch.
Ikkyuan, a company with deep roots in the region, operates the cafe, offering a menu centered on their soy milk and tofu products. The menu includes a Matcha Soy Latte (¥600), Iced Coffee (¥500), and 100% Aomori Apple Juice (¥500) for drinks. For dessert, visitors can enjoy Soy Fromage, a layered tofu cheesecake (¥600), and Soy Ice Cream made with 70% soy milk (¥600). These light and healthy treats perfectly complement the tranquil natural surroundings.
Highlights
- One-day-only cafe at Kanshobo temple lodging during the Ao Momiji Festival on July 5, 2026.
- Enjoy soy milk and tofu-based drinks and desserts, including Matcha Soy Latte and Soy Fromage cheesecake.
- Set in the historic Saisho-ji Temple grounds, famous for its national treasure main hall and beautiful green maple leaves.
- Experience a peaceful break in a traditional temple lodging surrounded by lush greenery and moss.
- Menu prices range from ¥500 to ¥600, offering affordable and healthy options.
Menu & Event Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Ikkyuan Kuro to Ku Cafe at Saisho-ji Temple, Shiga Prefecture |
| Menu / items | Matcha Soy Latte, Iced Coffee, 100% Aomori Apple Juice, Soy Fromage (tofu cheesecake), Soy Ice Cream |
| Location | Saisho-ji Temple Kanshobo, Koto Sanzan, Shiga Prefecture |
| Address | 1-20 Ikedera, Kora-cho, Inukami-gun, Shiga |
| Period | July 5, 2026 (Sun), 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Price | Matcha Soy Latte ¥600 (tax included); Iced Coffee ¥500 (tax included); 100% Aomori Apple Juice ¥500 (tax included); Soy Fromage ¥600 (tax included); Soy Ice Cream ¥600 (tax included) |
