Crafted in Singapore, Brewed in Tokyo: Home-grown Alchemist Opens First Japan Outposts

Alchemist, the acclaimed coffee brand from Singapore, has made its highly anticipated debut in Japan with the grand opening of two new locations in Tokyo. This marks the brand’s first international expansion outside Singapore. The Tokyo stores, located in the vibrant neighborhoods of Aoyama and Asakusa, opened their doors to the public in late June 2025. Both locations were carefully selected for their alignment with Alchemist’s minimalist aesthetic and commitment to quality-driven, design-conscious experiences. The brand hosted a soft opening event that attracted coffee enthusiasts, local creatives, media outlets, and members of the Tokyo coffee scene.

“We’ve always admired Japan’s deep-rooted coffee culture and attention to detail,” said Will Leow, founder of Alchemist. “Our mission has always been to create a moment of connection over coffee. Expanding into Tokyo felt like a natural step forward for us, and we’re humbled by the warm reception from the local community. We are excited to share our vision with coffee lovers in Japan—a country that already has such a deep and refined appreciation for quality and craft.”

Operated by Alchemist Japan Co., Ltd., the brand introduces its signature coffee experience to Japan—one that blends thoughtful hospitality, precision roasting, and a belief that high-quality coffee should be accessible to everyone. Founded in 2016 by entrepreneur and barista Will Leow, Alchemist began as a humble 4-square-meter coffee stand in Singapore’s bustling central business district. The company roasts in-season beans in small batches, carefully adapting methods to each bean’s unique characteristics. They procure high-quality beans through a carefully curated supply chain and strong relationships with producers and traders who share similar values.

Each cup at Alchemist is brewed to highlight the individual character of the beans, which are sourced seasonally and roasted with meticulous attention to detail. This careful approach has earned Alchemist a strong reputation among discerning coffee lovers in Singapore, growing to 11 locations nationwide. The company continues to uphold the same meticulous roasting techniques it established from the beginning.

Offering a diverse selection with over 10 rotating menu items The team conducts multiple rounds of sampling for each coffee to determine the optimal roasting approach for the most delicious cup possible. Alchemist handles 80 to 100 single-origin coffees annually, achieving a level of diversity unmatched by other roasters. Their stores consistently offer more than 10 coffee varieties, providing a rich and varied lineup that allows customers to enjoy new experiences with every visit.

Baristas at the heart of the company As Alchemist expands into Japan, the company remains committed to investing in barista training, career development, and workplace culture. The name “Alchemist” pays tribute to the daily work of baristas and the craft of coffee. Baristas serve as the vital link between coffee and customer.

At the heart of Alchemist’s training philosophy is empowerment: equipping baristas with deep knowledge and sharp sensory skills, not just procedures. The goal is to cultivate professionals who understand each step of the process and can think critically when crafting each cup.

Training at Alchemist fosters a comprehensive understanding of coffee’s journey—from cultivation and processing to roasting and brewing. Baristas develop sharp sensory skills that enable them to craft each cup with care, consistency, and confidence in sharing its story. For the new Tokyo locations, these same principles are upheld, ensuring that the company’s core values are embodied regardless of location.

With plans to open 10 stores across Japan by the end of 2028, Alchemist is poised to become a fixture in the country’s coffee scene—one cup at a time.