Shizuku is a lovely little cafe overlooking the tree-lined Kitashirakawa canal. Within its white walls the wooden tables, comfy chairs, handmade tableware and gentle lighting, all contribute to a quiet, unpretentious and peaceful mood. I like the music they play there too; on my last three visits it was first British folk music, then Salif Keita and then Corinne Bailey Rae. The food is tasty; the daily lunch (a main dish with rice and salad) costs ￥750 yen or ￥1,000 with dessert and a drink. On my most recent visit the daily lunch was a salmon and potato cheese bake and I chose a chiffon cake for dessert both of which I give the full thumbs-up to. You can see them amid the pictures below.

Shizuku’s homemade cakes are also a popular item at nearby Chionji’s monthly “Tezukuri” flea-market. Obviously the best time to visit Shizuku is when the cherry blossoms are in bloom; there is a splendid view from the window seats. However, at any time of year this is a nice area for a stroll either along the canal or southward and up the hill to the Yoshida yama shrine. To find Shizuku go west along Imadegawa away from Shirakawa Dori. When you see the big red Torii gates of Yoshida yama on the south (left) side of the road you should look out for a turning on your right marked by a large buddhist statue of Jizo (pictured left). Turn right here and go north and you will soon see the canal and Shizuku on your left. It’s about five minutes walking from the Ginkakujimichi bus stop. Here is a map.

Open: 11:30 ~ 17:00 / 18:00 ~ 22:00 (closed Wednesdays)
Tel: 075-702-2893