Experience Tranquility at Jingu Saryo: A Traditional Japanese Café in Omi Jingu Shrine

[Just 15 Minutes from Kyoto Station]

Nestled within the serene grounds of Omi Jingu Shrine in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Jingu Saryo offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture while enjoying delightful, gluten-free confections.

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A Café Steeped in History

Established in a building with over 80 years of history, Jingu Saryo has been thoughtfully renovated to preserve its cultural significance. Originally serving as a rest area for shrine visitors, the structure retains charming features like vintage inscriptions on its sturdy pillars, adding to its nostalgic ambiance.

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A Window to Nature’s Art

The café boasts large, frame-like windows that perfectly capture the lush greenery outside, creating picturesque views akin to living paintings. Guests can relax on low sofas in the tatami-floored area, savoring the tranquil garden scenery that fills the room.

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Culinary Delights: Gluten-Free Dorayaki and Seasonal Treats

Jingu Saryo takes pride in its signature gluten-free dorayaki, made from locally sourced Koshihikari rice flour. The simple yet refined recipe includes rice flour, sugar, eggs, honey, and baking soda, resulting in a soft and flavorful pancake sandwiching sweet fillings. Seasonal specialties, such as the “Pudding Dorayaki,” feature a firm custard pudding nestled between the dorayaki layers, offering a delightful twist on a classic treat.

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Seasonal Offerings: From Zenzai to Kakigori

Depending on the time of year, Jingu Saryo’s menu evolves to showcase traditional Japanese desserts. In winter, guests can warm up with “Kaiun Zenzai,” a sweet red bean soup served with toasted mochi, providing comfort on chilly days. During the summer months, the café offers refreshing kakigori (shaved ice) topped with homemade syrups in flavors like matcha, brown sugar syrup with kinako, and unique combinations such as pineapple and Earl Grey. The most popular choice, “Brown Sugar Kinako,” features rich syrup made from Okinawan black sugar, perfectly complemented by a hint of salted roasted soybean flour.

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Plan Your Visit

Jingu Saryo is conveniently located approximately 15 minutes from Kyoto Station, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. After exploring the historic Omi Jingu Shrine, renowned as a sacred site for karuta (traditional Japanese playing cards), visitors can unwind at the café, indulging in exquisite sweets while soaking in the harmonious blend of history and nature.

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Whether you’re a connoisseur of Japanese confections or simply looking for a serene spot to relax, Jingu Saryo offers a memorable experience that beautifully encapsulates the essence of traditional Japanese hospitality.