Kyushu Matcha Experience in the Heart of Fukuoka
CROSS POINT NAKASUKAWABATA, the dining space within Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Nakasukawabata, is set to expand its offerings with a new afternoon tea service starting July 1, 2026. The cafe focuses on two prominent tea-producing regions in Kyushu: Yame in Fukuoka Prefecture and Kagoshima. To emphasize the traditional preparation, staff whisk the matcha directly at the table, allowing guests to observe the frothing process and the release of the tea’s aroma.
Regional Profiles and Contemporary Sweets
The menu is designed to highlight the sensory differences between regional teas. The Kyushu Matcha Tasting Set provides a direct comparison between the mellow sweetness characteristic of Yame and the more refreshing profile of Kagoshima matcha. For a more substantial pairing, the Matcha and Wagashi Set allows guests to choose their preferred tea to accompany traditional items such as mitarashi dango (rice dumplings with a sweet soy glaze), dorayaki (red bean-filled pancakes), or ice cream monaka (crisp wafer sandwiches).
In addition to traditional pairings, the cafe offers modern interpretations of green tea flavors. The Yame Matcha Tiramisu incorporates mascarpone cheese for a rich texture, while the Matcha Affogato serves bitter tea over vanilla ice cream to balance the flavor profiles. These offerings are available daily during the newly established cafe hours from 14:00 to 18:00.
A Central Hub for Local Hospitality
Situated between Gofukumachi and Nakasukawabata stations, the hotel serves as a strategic base for exploring the Hakata and Tenjin districts. The launch of the matcha service follows a series of updates to the property’s culinary program, including a renewed breakfast buffet and the earlier introduction of lunch and bar services. This latest addition aims to provide a quiet space for both hotel guests and neighborhood visitors to engage with Kyushu’s long-standing tea culture in a modern setting.
Property details
- Property
- Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Nakasukawabata
- Address
- 6-26 Tenyamachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka
- Access
- Located between Gofukumachi Station and Nakasukawabata Station (approx. 4 mins by train to Hakata Station, 2 mins to Tenjin Station)
- Official site
- https://nakasukawabata.hotelorientalexpress.com/en/
- Pricing
- Matcha and Wagashi Set: 1,000 yen; Kyushu Matcha Tasting Set: 1,000 yen; Yame Matcha Tiramisu: 900 yen; Matcha Affogato: 800 yen (all prices include tax)
