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A cozy café housed in a 160-year-old traditional townhouse, where you can enjoy Japanese sweets made with authentic Yoshino honkuzu (arrowroot starch).
Located in Naramachi, one of Nara’s most charming walking districts, known for its Edo-period townhouses and nostalgic shopping streets, Sakura Café is part of Yoshinokuzu Sakura, a specialty shop that sells products made from rare Yoshino honkuzu—high-quality arrowroot starch extracted from wild roots dug from the mountains of Yoshino, of which only about 10% can be used.
All sweets are handmade to order. One of the signature items is kuzukiri, served with house-made brown sugar syrup, featuring the smooth texture and firm bite unique to authentic honkuzu. Another favorite is the kuzumochi, known for its chewy softness and subtle natural sweetness.
Seasonal specialties are also available: in summer, enjoy Kuzu Shirayuki, a refreshing shaved ice dessert topped with honkuzu mochi, shiratama, and sweet red beans. In winter, the rich and warming Kuzu Shiruko offers a comforting experience with its thick, velvety texture.
The café is set inside a townhouse over 160 years old, with a peaceful traditional interior and a garden view that offers a moment of calm. After enjoying your sweets, be sure to browse the shop for gifts like their popular Kuzuyu (kuzu tea), available in four flavors including cherry blossom and matcha—lightweight, long-lasting, and perfect as souvenirs.
Kuzukiri with its smooth texture and firm bite, showcasing the quality of Yoshino honkuzu
Chewy kuzumochi, delicious with brown sugar syrup or roasted soybean flour
Summer-only shaved ice dessert Kuzu Shirayuki
Kuzu Shiruko, a warm and comforting treat popular in winter
Café space housed in a Meiji-era townhouse
Also sells kuzukashi (kuzu sweets) and kuzuyu, making it a popular spot in the Naramachi area
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have menus in foreign languages or with pictures? (If so, please let us know the languages available.)
An English menu with photos is available, but staff do not provide service in foreign languages.
Q
Do you serve vegetarian menus?
No.
Q
Can I get take-out?
Sorry, it is not available.
Q
Is there free Wi-Fi available in the cafe?
No free Wi-Fi available.
Q
Is it possible to reserve a seat?
No, it isn’t.
Q
Are there any smoking areas?
Not available.
