Bel Amer is the Kyoto outpost of a famed Tokyo chocolatier. They sell distinctive sweets with Kyoto themes, flavors and packaging.
Bel Amer exterior – image © Chris Rowthorn
If you’re looking for a lightweight and memorable souvenir or gift for the folks back home, you should definitely check out the Bel Amer store on Sanjo (downtown) or the branch in front of Ginkaku-ji Temple.
Chocolate on display – image © Chris Rowthorn
Several of the chocolates are molded in the shape of famous Kyoto scenes like geisha, Ginkaku-ji or Togetsu-kyo Bridge in Arashiyama
Chocolate up close – image © Chris Rowthorn
The chocolates and pastries they sell are all packaged with traditional Kyoto materials like washi (traditional paper) and they’re visually stunning.
Chocolate wrapper – image © Chris Rowthorn
The stores are filled with all manner of tempting treats and the helpful ladies on staff are happy to make suggestions and package your purchases beautifully.
Bel Amer interior – image © Chris Rowthorn
All in all, this is a brilliant place to buy some wonderful and memorable Kyoto treats!
Name in English:
Chocolat Bel Amer Kyoto-Bettei Sanjo Store
Name in Japanese:
ショコラ ベルアメール 京都別邸 三条店
English address:
66 Masuya-cho, Sanjo-dori-Sakaimachi-higashiiru, Nakagyo-ku
Japanese address:
中京区三条通堺町東入ル桝屋町66
Opening hours:
10am-8pm Sanjo store
10am-5:30pm Ginkaku-ji Store
Price: cheap to moderate
Non-smoking area: completely non-smoking
Nearest Transport:
5min walk from Karasuma Oike Station Exit 5, Karasuma and Tozai subway lines
Reservations:
Possible
Telephone: 221-7025
Website:
Official site (Japanese)
Near To Here:
Chocolat Bel Amer Kyoto-Bettei Sanjo Store is located in Kyoto’s Downtown district. See our complete list of things to do in Downtown Kyoto, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
