Cha no Yu

20-3 Gangojicho, Nara, 630-8332, Japan
+81 80-1356-8268
$$$ Cafe
(99 Reviews)
Price Range ¥2,000–3,000

Welcome to Cha no Yu, an enchanting café nestled in the heart of Nara, Japan. Located at 20-3 Gangojicho, this hidden gem offers a soothing retreat from the bustling streets and the charming encounters with Nara's famous deer. If you're seeking a place that embodies tranquility and a genuine passion for cuisine, Cha no Yu is your destination.

The café prides itself on its organic offerings and healthy menu, accentuating a clean taste without the use of sugar or mirin. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, bringing the freshest ingredients to the forefront, resulting in a gastronomic experience that delights the senses. Customers rave about the lunch set which features beautifully presented meals paired with the exquisite homemade soy sauce, complemented by rice that perfectly showcases the flavors.

But the experience at Cha no Yu goes beyond the food. Guests have described the café as a sanctuary, where the meticulously crafted ambiance draws you in, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Keith Smith encapsulated this wonderfully when he mentioned, “Relaxing cafe after playing with the deer! Soaking my feet in the warm private tub was exactly what I needed.” The foot bath, a unique and delightful addition, enhances your visit, providing a soothing respite as you relax and rejuvenate.

Mahdi Abbas discovered this enchanting café while cycling around Nara and noted, “I couldn't have been happier to find such a great little cafe with amazing character, deliciously healthy food, and a lovely dedicated owner.” This sentiment echoes across various reviews, underlining the owner's commitment to authentic service and culinary excellence. Kly emphasizes the exceptional service, stating, “The ambience and service are exceptional, and we had an immensely enjoyable experience.” With such heartfelt endorsements, it’s evident that the owner brings not just food but a story and passion to every plate.

As you step into Cha no Yu, you are greeted by a little slice of Japanese hospitality, where the careful consideration of each visitor turns a simple meal into a memorable occasion. Whether you are stopping by after visiting the iconic Todai-ji Temple, or simply looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, Cha no Yu invites you to savor each moment.

Next time you find yourself in Nara, do not miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the calming embrace of Cha no Yu – where every bite and every soak in the foot bath adds to a unique, unforgettable experience.

Service options
Kerbside pickup
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great tea selection
Popular for
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Lunch
Dessert
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Crowd
Tourists
Payments
Cash only
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Thursday

Closed

Friday

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

99 Reviews
Keith Smith

30 Sep 2025

Relaxing cafe after playing with the deer! Soaking my feet in the warm private tub was exactly want I needed. Matcha was excellent as well ~

Mahdi Abbas

14 Sep 2025

Found this place on a whim whilst cycling around Nara. Couldn't have been happier to find such a great little cafe with amazing character, deliciously healthy food and a lovely dedicated owner. The foot bath was a delightful surprise too. I would highly recommend visiting this hidden gem if ever in Nara

Kly

08 Sep 2025

This place is absolutely incredible! It's a definite must-visit if you are in Nara! The ambience and service are exceptional, and we had an immensely enjoyable experience. The food has a wonderfully clean taste, without the use of sugar or mirin. What's even more impressive is that the owner, who handles everything single-handedly, is incredibly passionate about the cuisine and eagerly shares insights into its preparation. To top it off, the footbath provided a delightful addition to our relaxing lunch.

Arvin Rokni

24 Aug 2025

Wow we randomly found this gem! We ordered the lunch set + rice foot bath. Food was incredible (no sugar, no msg, no gluten! And home made soy) Also the foot bath was incredible, the owner replaced the water frequently with hot water (cold in summer)

Warren Sy

04 Aug 2025

Stumbled here on Golden Week. The food is organic, and the ambiance authentic. A definite recommend.

Kait Levin

31 Jul 2025

We found this cafe while looking for lunch after visiting Nara Park. The owner was very kind and welcoming. We got the standard lunch, which was mostly vegetable based with some meat, and very fresh. You also have the option to get a warm or cold foot bath while you eat, which was great after a day of walking.

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