Saryo Itoen Zenkoji, the first franchise location of the Japanese tea cafe brand Saryo Itoen, is set to open on March 19, 2026 (Thursday), within the grounds of Zenkoji temple in Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture.
Saryo Itoen is a Japanese tea cafe chain centered on matcha and carefully selected sencha, offering a contemporary take on Japan's tea culture across 16 locations nationwide. The Zenkoji branch marks the brand's first-ever franchise store, with the temple itself serving as the franchisee. The partnership came about through a shared respect for Japanese history and culture, and the cafe will be integrated into the temple grounds to complement its long-established character.
Zenkoji has approximately 1,400 years of history and is one of Japan's most iconic ancient temples. Known for welcoming visitors regardless of religious affiliation, it draws large numbers of pilgrims and tourists year-round. The temple grounds include a National Treasure-designated main hall and numerous historically significant structures. Saryo Itoen Zenkoji will offer domestic and international visitors a place to experience the depth of Japanese tea culture alongside the temple's historic setting.
In addition to Itoen's signature matcha and Japanese tea offerings, this location will carry store-exclusive items not available elsewhere.
Store-Exclusive Menu Items
Matcha Namagashi Rakugan
Single (set of 2): ¥495 (tax included)
With drink set: from ¥990 (tax included)
A fresh-style rakugan confection made with Itoen matcha and wasanbon — a fine Japanese sugar known for its delicate sweetness. The texture is crafted to gently dissolve in the mouth. Available as a single item (set of 2), paired with a Japanese tea or latte as a drink set, and also sold as a souvenir box of 6 pieces (¥1,188, tax included).
Matcha Nama Dorayaki
Single: ¥440 (tax included)
With drink set: from ¥880 (tax included)
Fluffy dorayaki pancakes hand-grilled one by one, filled with a smooth matcha cream made using carefully selected matcha. The deep aroma and rich flavor of matcha come through with every bite. Available as a single item, as a drink set, and also as a souvenir product.
Regular Menu Highlights
Matcha & Hojicha Latte (HOT/COLD)
¥770 (tax included)
A latte crafted to bring out the natural flavor and aroma of each tea. The matcha latte is prepared unsweetened to let the tea's character shine, while the hojicha latte highlights the roasted fragrance of the tea. Each cup is made individually to order.
Matcha & Hojicha Shiratama Azuki Soft Cream
¥880 (tax included)
A Japanese-style parfait featuring both rich matcha and fragrant hojicha soft cream, topped with shiratama rice dumplings and azuki red beans — a dessert that lets you enjoy the flavors of both teas at once.
Store Information
Store Name: Saryo Itoen Zenkoji
Address: Zenkoji Temple, 491-I Motoyoshicho, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture 380-0851
Opening Date: March 19, 2026 (Thursday)
Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closing time may vary by season)
Regular Holidays: Irregular
Zenkoji temple is accessible from JR Nagano Station by foot in about 30 minutes along the Omotesando approach, or by local bus in approximately 15 minutes. The surrounding gate town features a variety of restaurants and souvenir shops to explore alongside the visit.
