A Journey Through Sake and Sweets at the Enchanting Yume Hyakushu Cafe

Fushimi is one of our favorite towns to visit when staying in Kyoto. After being certified as Sake Professionals, we discovered the delicate flavor of sake produced in Fushimi. This Cafe is located near the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. Check out our article, Two Perfect Days in Fushimi, to find more places to visit there.

This unique establishment, once the bustling headquarters of the renowned Gekkeikan brewery in the Taisho Era, has been transformed into a cultural haven, offering a deep dive into the world of sake paired with delectable sweets. With its rich history and innovative offerings, the café invites visitors on an unforgettable journey that tantalizes the senses and enriches the soul.

The cafe’s atmosphere echoes the elegance of a bygone era. The building, which opened its doors in 1919, has been meticulously preserved, allowing patrons to bask in the architectural beauty and historical significance of the original Gekkeikan head office. The Yume Hyakushu Cafe, operated by the Fushimi Kanko Kyokai NPO, is dedicated to promoting the allure of Fushimi, making it a must-visit locale for those seeking to immerse themselves in the area’s rich cultural tapestry.

The Yume Hyakushu Cafe’s interior is a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary comfort, creating a tranquil space where visitors can unwind and savor the moment. With each of the local sake breweries represented by a trio of their most acclaimed sakes, enthusiasts have the unique opportunity to taste and compare these renowned beverages. The experience is akin to stepping back in time, evoking the spirit of historical figures such as Sakamoto Ryoma, amidst a setting that exudes warmth and hospitality.

At the heart of Cafe’s offerings are its innovative sake-infused delights, seamlessly marrying the world of sake with the art of confectionery. The highlight is undoubtedly the sake affogato, a creative twist on the classic dessert where rich vanilla ice cream is lavished with aged sake instead of espresso. Served in a traditional ‘masu’—a square wooden cup used for sake—this fusion of flavors is a revelation, showcasing the unexpected harmony between creamy ice cream and the nuanced notes of sake.

Beyond the signature affogato, the Cafe’s menu is a testament to the versatility of sake in culinary creations. From the smooth, full-bodied cold-brew coffee made with the same revered Fushimi water used in sake production, to the Saka Manju buns incorporating Shiragikusui water and Junmai Daiginjo sake in the batter, each offering is a nod to the region’s legacy. The Seishu Ice Cream, another crowd-pleaser, tops vanilla ice cream with a generous pour of sake, encapsulating the essence of Fushimi in every bite.

If you are interested in learning more about sake, we recommend John Gauntner’s website, Sake World. John is our sake teacher and he is highly regarded in the Japanese sake world.

For those wishing to take a piece of Fushimi home, the Yume Hyakushu Cafe houses a souvenir shop brimming with local specialties. Here, visitors can find an array of sake from Fushimi’s esteemed breweries, along with unique items such as sake-infused soy sauce. Each product tells a story, serving as a tangible reminder of the memorable moments spent within the café’s walls.

In conclusion, the Cafe is more than just a destination; it is a journey through the sensory delights of Fushimi, offering an intimate glimpse into the world of sake and sweets. Whether you’re a sake aficionado or a curious traveler, the café promises an experience that is both enlightening and enchanting, leaving a lasting impression that beckons you to return.