Kurasu

Kurasu began in 2013 as an online homeware shop and has grown into a specialty coffee company with physical and online stores. The name comes from a Japanese verb meaning “to live” or “lifestyle.” Based in Kyoto, Kurasu’s mission is to spread Japanese coffee culture around the world. They roast at their Nishijin Roastery and supply specialty coffee, tea and Japanese brewing equipment to customers globally, aiming to support home‑brewing and foster community. Founder Yozo Otsuki left a career in finance in Tokyo and Sydney to pursue a more fulfilling path in coffee. He built Kurasu into a brand with cafes in Kyoto and abroad, and the roastery, housed in a renovated machiya, uses a Loring S35 Kestrel to roast beans from partners worldwide. Kurasu advocates for a sustainable future in coffee and brings Kyoto hospitality to its cafes.