6 Japanese cafes that turn coffee into 3D latte art

While Japan is most famous for its tea culture and matcha, the love of coffee has also hit the country. Since coffee’s introduction in the 18th century by Dutch traders, on average Japanese consume 10.93 cups of coffee per week with a special coffee culture such as their coffee house kissaten and Japanese iced coffee. Given Japanese’s love for manga and anime, it shouldn’t surprise anyone that they excel in turning coffee into pieces of art, too. Here are six cafes that manages to turn milk foam and crema into masterpieces:

Reissue, Tokyo

One of the unmissable spots for latte art, Reissue in Tokyo makes the cutest 3D latte art in Totoro, Pikachu and other cute animals. For those seeking something more personal, bring a photo and a realistic cartoon version will appear on your latte. With locations in Harajuku and Shibuya, it’s easy to add it to your Tokyo itinerary.

Cafe ChocoTea, Sakado 

Cafe ChocoTea is in Sakado is just north of Tokyo. Their most popular latte art consist of three little critters peering down out from the cup, which they also serve on a cone or in a teapot.

Nissan Crossing Cafe, Tokyo 

If 3D latte art and cartoon drawing isn’t enough, perhaps getting a photo printed on a latte will be. This ultra-modern cafe in Ginza can print a photo of your choice on a cup of latte. The photo is sent to a special machine which uses various shades of brown on white foam to create a brown-and-white photo on the latte.