Ruru Kamakura
A modern Japanese cafe in Kamakura, famed for its unique 'water table' presentation and seasonal aesthetic treats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better seats
Ruru Kamakura
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better seats
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern Japanese cafe in Kamakura, famed for its unique 'water table' presentation and seasonal aesthetic treats.
"The 'water table' is the main draw, making it a visually stunning spot for photos, though taste reviews are mixed."
🎯 Arrive Before Opening
To guarantee a spot at the 'water table', aim to be there 30 minutes before opening.
💸 Mandatory Orders
Be aware you must order both a drink and a pastry per person.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic 'Water Table'
Main seating area
A serene, minimalist table with water where your sweets and drinks are artfully presented. Perfect for photos!
Seasonal Sweets & Drinks
Menu
Indulge in beautifully crafted, often themed desserts like cherry blossom or hydrangea treats.
Modern Japanese Aesthetic
Interior
A tranquil space blending Zen garden vibes with contemporary elegance, ideal for a peaceful break.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Experience
Understand the 'Water Table' System
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before Opening
To guarantee a spot at the 'water table', aim to be there 30 minutes before opening.
💸 Mandatory Orders
Be aware you must order both a drink and a pastry per person.
📸 Insta-Worthy Shots
The 'water table' is designed for photos, so have your camera ready! +1
🌸 Seasonal Delights
Check for limited-time seasonal menus, especially during spring for sakura themes. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before Opening
To guarantee a spot at the 'water table', aim to be there 30 minutes before opening.
💸 Mandatory Orders
Be aware you must order both a drink and a pastry per person.
📸 Insta-Worthy Shots
The 'water table' is designed for photos, so have your camera ready! +1
🌸 Seasonal Delights
Check for limited-time seasonal menus, especially during spring for sakura themes. +1
🚶♀️ Short Walk from Station
It's a pleasant 5-8 minute walk from Kamakura Station. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ruru Kamakura is celebrated for its highly aesthetic 'water table' presentation and seasonal themed sweets, making it a popular spot for photos. However, some visitors find the mandatory order policy, high prices, and mixed taste quality to be drawbacks, suggesting it's more of a visual experience than a culinary one. +1
"If you're Influencer and love taking very nice photos, I recommend this place! If you enjoy quality food/drinks I don't recommend it. Luckily when I went, it was really quiet and the the staff were very friendly. Unfortunately the drinks/cakes weren't up to standard."
Kevin Tran
"TLDR: overpriced and tourist trap, it is only for posting on IG, it is not for quality.
They force you to buy not only an overpriced drink but also an overpriced pastry. I was not allowed to only buy a drink. Each item costs 900 yen which is high, even converted to US prices. The cheesecake was cloyingly sweet and the hojicha latte was also super sweet. The whole draw is the “water table” that makes it look nice to eat at"
Wilson Tsang
"Dont be fooled by all the pretty flowers pictures .The place is small its one table with water . you can see the person in front of you.its not romantic nor relaxing.there was no flowers no decor nothing special. Nothing more than a hype and tourist trap .You don t need to pay that much for good matcha .The atmosphere was a HUGE let down. Very boring and flat.Absolutely zero effort was put to make it look remotely nice. Dont listen to those so called " influencers" trying to down at mom and pop restaurent/ cafe much cheapper. They dont speak english even in this highly touristic place . You are forced to order food with your drinks not just drink its a ridiculous system and anyone coming in is forced to order .be aware ...poorly run business . What a waste of people s time and a huge disappointment"
Emma Palomino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ruru Kamakura is conveniently located a short walk from Kamakura Station. It typically takes about 5-8 minutes on foot. +1
Yes, it's noted as being near the Giant Buddha (Daibutsu) and other temples and sanctuaries in Kamakura.
Kamakura is easily accessible by train from Tokyo. The JR Yokosuka Line or JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line are common routes.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce, and it's recommended to use public transport or nearby coin parking if driving.
While Kamakura has a coastline, Ruru Kamakura is more centrally located within the city, closer to the station and historical sites. Walking from the beach might be a longer trek.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no specific tickets required for entry. However, there is a mandatory order system for food and drinks.
Ruru Kamakura is typically open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM, with some sources indicating 10:30 AM opening. It's best to check their latest hours before visiting. +2
There is no separate entrance fee, but you are required to order at least one drink and one pastry per person. +1
No, the policy requires customers to order both a drink and a pastry. This is a common point of feedback. +1
Items are priced around 900 yen each, meaning a mandatory order of a drink and pastry will cost approximately 1800 yen per person. +1
🎫 ☕ Onsite Experience
The 'water table' is a unique feature where your food and drinks are presented on a shallow water surface, creating a visually appealing display for photos. +1
While visually appealing, some visitors find the 'water table' seating to be too close to other diners, making it less romantic and more of a photo opportunity than a relaxing experience.
They offer a selection of Japanese-style sweets, like cheesecakes and terrines, and drinks such as matcha lattes and seasonal sodas. +1
Reviews are mixed. Some find the drinks and snacks good, while others describe them as overly sweet and not worth the price. +1
Yes, Ruru Kamakura is noted to have an English menu available, which is helpful for international visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'water table' is the prime spot for photography, especially with seasonal decorations. The minimalist interior also offers aesthetic shots. +1
Absolutely! The cafe's unique presentation and aesthetic make it a very popular spot for Instagram photos.
It's generally best practice to focus on your own order and avoid photographing other patrons or their meals without permission.
While encouraged for personal use, be mindful of other guests and avoid intrusive photography. No specific restrictions are widely mentioned.
Morning hours, especially on weekdays, offer softer lighting and fewer people, which can be ideal for capturing the ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Influencers & Photographers
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Water Table' Phenomenon
However, the popularity of the 'water table' comes with practical considerations. Seating is limited, and the tables are often positioned closely together, meaning you might be able to see and hear your neighbors. This can detract from the intended tranquil or romantic atmosphere for some.
Seasonal Offerings and Menu
It's important to note the cafe's ordering policy: a mandatory purchase of both a drink and a pastry is required per person.
The Aesthetic and Ambiance
While the aesthetic is a major draw, some visitors have noted that the actual atmosphere can be less serene than anticipated due to the close proximity of tables and the focus on photo opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit