It is said that the Japanese emphasize form while Westerners emphasize content, but on a deeper level in Japan, form virtually symbolizes social relations. The very importance of human relations has created much artifice and difficulty, a dichotomy between surface accomodation and depth of true intention, so one must be careful and sensitive, that is, considerate. The ubiquitous kissaten are much more than places to drink coffee. The price of a beverage is 2 or 3 dollars, but one is paying for the space in a land of few public comforts, for the time since people often stay nearly an hour, for the meeting place to chat with friends, for the facilities and free reading materials. First ice water, and later green tea is often served for free.
Most places also offer hot and damp oshibori towels to freshen up.
So-called Morning Service adds a light meal to hot or iced coffee with no extra charge. Little extras like peanuts are often served at other times. Pot coffee is called American, but most people order coffee made European style called Blend, one cup at a time. There are usually no refills for that reason. More exotic varieties of coffee can also be ordered.