In September 2020, a charming establishment called loose (@loosekyoto), specializing in specialty coffee and donuts, opened on the road leading up to Kyoto’s famed Kiyomizudera Temple.

The owner-barista, Takaya Umeda, hails from Kyoto. He was instrumental in the development of Walden Woods Kyoto, where he worked from its opening until quite recently, and before that, he worked at Verve Coffee Roasters in Tokyo. The design of his own café, where he works alongside his brother, strongly resembles Walden with its white ceiling and aluminum surfaces. Furniture such as seats for customers and the counter are made from wooden blocks that have been weathered by sun and rain over time. The influence of Walden Woods can also be seen in the vintage record player and the merchandise featuring the café’s branding.

In addition to excellent coffee, visitors can also enjoy matcha and hojicha lattes, both of which meet specialty standards in quality. So, on your way to Kiyomizudera Temple, don’t forget to stop by the Umeda brothers' café for a cup of coffee—and more!