Coffee in Japan

In this episode of Japan 2.0, David and Matthew explore the coffee and cafe culture in Japan, starting with the history of traditional Japanese coffee houses called "Kisaten," which were initially male-dominated, smoky spaces offering quiet respite with coffee and jazz. They discuss Japanese interpretations of Western food often found in these establishments, before transitioning to the impact of major chains like Starbucks and local copycats on the modern cafe scene in Japan, highlighting the unique ambiance and localized designs of Starbucks locations. The hosts share personal experiences and preferences, including their favorite coffee spots in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, and provide tips for listeners seeking quality coffee experiences, such as trying curry cafes or Mr. Donut for unlimited refills, and also touch on the expanding coffee chains and the evolving coffee culture in Japan.