About
CISCO COFFEE represents a unique cultural transplant in the Fujikawaguchiko area, bringing authentic American West Coast coffee culture to the shores of Lake Kawaguchi since 2014. Pioneer in Third Wave coffee movement before it fully reached Japan. All coffee beans are sourced from a historic San Francisco roasting company and carefully hand-dripped to extract pure flavors of single-origin coffees. Renovated and reopened June 29, 2024. 🔗
Cultural & Religious Significance
Represents successful cultural transplantation of American West Coast coffee culture to rural Japan, demonstrating how international culinary traditions can be authentically recreated while respecting local customs. The establishment introduced Third Wave coffee concepts to the Mount Fuji region before the movement became widespread in Japan, making it a cultural pioneer. 🔗
The cafe's focus on single-origin beans and hand-drip preparation methods represents dedication to coffee craftsmanship that parallels Japanese attention to detail in traditional arts.
Visiting Information
Operating Hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday-Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Brunch Hours: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (dedicated brunch menu)
- Closed: Wednesdays
- Phone: 0555-73-4187 🔗
Access:
- 7 minutes by car/taxi from Kawaguchiko Station
- 12 minutes by Fujikyuko Bus Saiko Sightseeing "Green Line" to "Yagizaki Park" stop + 1-minute walk
- 4 parking spaces available on-site
Seating:
- 24 table seats with various configurations including sofa seating
- 18-seat terrace with direct lake and mountain views (pets welcome on terrace)
The Experience
Signature Coffee Experience: Hand-dripped single-origin beans from San Francisco, prepared with careful attention to extraction techniques that highlight each coffee's unique characteristics. High ceilings, wood-based design elements, and open floor plan create authentic American coffee house atmosphere. 🔗
Boston Cream Pie (¥650): Signature dessert featuring coffee-infused sponge cake layered with caramel whipped cream and vanilla custard, finished with chocolate coating. Moderate sweetness balances perfectly with distinct coffee bitterness, representing authentic American dessert tradition. 🔗
Lake Kawaguchi & Mount Fuji Views: Terrace seating provides stunning backdrop of lake and mountain scenery, enhanced by clear autumn conditions typical of October visits.
Practical Visiting Tips
Optimal Timing:
- Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) for minimal crowds
- Avoid weekend visits when wait times can be significant
- Brunch hours (9:00 AM-2:00 PM) offer fuller menu access 🔗
Photography Opportunities:
- Terrace seating for Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji backdrop shots
- Interior shots highlighting high-ceiling, San Francisco atmosphere
- Coffee preparation showcasing hand-drip techniques 🔗
October 2025 Considerations:
- Clear, dry autumn conditions ideal for both indoor and terrace seating
- Excellent Mount Fuji visibility expected during autumn months
- Peak foliage season enhances scenic lakeside setting
- Comfortable temperatures for enjoying hot coffee outdoors 🔗
Cultural Etiquette:
- Japanese cafe etiquette: quiet conversation levels, no phone calls
- Hand-dripped coffee service may take longer than typical cafe service
- Credit cards accepted for convenience 🔗
Location: View on Google Maps
Source: attractions/fujikawaguchiko/cisco-coffee.md