Starbucks Kawagoe Kanetsuki Street

The most beautiful Starbucks in the world

Definitely the most aesthetic Starbucks I have ever been to, not just in Saitama nor Japan, but worldwide. Supposedly there is one in Kyoto that is equally beautiful, but this new branch in Kawagoe is rivalling it for the title of Japan's (the world's?) most beautiful Starbucks! The branch was designed to look like (on the outside) the Edo period buildings that Kawagoe is famous for. Inside it is a striking mix of earthen woods and modern concrete. There is a stunning zen garden out back. The building has been featured in a number of architectural magazines. THe downside of its fame and popularity: it is near on impossible to get a seat at the weekend. However, the good news - it opens early and, in my experience, is less busy early morning. Plus if you can visit on a morning during the week not only is it easy to get a seat, it is tranquil and you can enjoy the quiet zen ambiance more! No parking, but there a coin parking lots nearby.