01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
After exploring the sprawling precinct of To-ji, teahouse Aun offers a tranquil pause framed by lush greenery and views of the five-storey pagoda. Guests can settle into the open-air pavilion or take a seat on red-felt-draped benches out front, enjoying Japanese sweets and freshly prepared tea in the open air.
The menu centres on traditional confections paired with aromatic hojicha or freshly whisked matcha. Offerings shift with the calendar: spring brings Domyoji-style sakura mochi, where salted cherry leaves balance the sweetness of red bean paste, while autumn introduces seasonal treats such as momiji dango, joined year-round by tri-colour hanami dango, steamed buns, and chestnut-filled mochi pies. Soy-flour-dusted warabi mochi and warming bowls of zenzai—served with savoury salted kelp to refresh the palate—provide satisfying comfort after a long walk.
In warmer weather, the teahouse serves chilled alternatives, including cold zenzai, citrus-infused frozen arrowroot confections, and shaved ice topped with Uji matcha, condensed milk, and sweet red beans. Classic drinks like ginger-spiced hiyashiame, sweet green tea, and amazake round out the selection, making it an easy spot to unwind before or after visiting the temple halls.
