Kyoto’s most popular coffee shop is a must-try for travelers visiting one of Japan’s oldest cities. Established in front of a breathtaking landscape, you’ll want to come back for a second cup. %Arabica Coffee’s philosophy is to See The World Through Coffee. Founded by Kenneth Shoji, he realized what he wanted out of life was an amazing cup of coffee every day and just like that… %Arabica Coffee was born. In September of 2014, Shoji opened the lead store in the historic city of Kyoto, Japan. As of today, this coffee shop operates over 140 stores across 19 countries with plenty more opening soon.
%Arabica serves Espresso Based Drinks and Other Drinks in their Kyoto location. You’re also able to buy their beans! They offer 13 varieties to choose from, all with their own unique set of tasting notes. %Arabica’s Espresso Based Drinks includes Espresso, Espresso Macchiato, Caffe Latte, Kyoto Latte, and Americano. Their Other Drinks are Matcha Latte, Lemonade Still, Lemonade Sparkling, Water Still, and Water Sparkling. For those of you who cannot drink dairy or choose not to, this coffee shop offers milk alternatives: soy and oat milk. Kyoto is well-known for being the town of Matcha, so if there’s one city you need to try it at, it’s here! I ordered a Matcha Latte with Soy Milk and it did not disappoint!
This coffee shop brings millions of customers from all corners of the world, due to being in the middle of multiple sought-after attractions. Located in Arashiyama (嵐山), you’ll run into minimalistic %Arabica after your walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (嵐山竹林)… but don’t stop there! After your peaceful (or not-so-peaceful if it’s too crowded!) stroll through the forest, you’ll be met with a large body of water where people can be seen canoeing– this is where %Arabica Coffee stands. Right across from this desired café is a large bridge that leads the way into Kyoto’s Iwatayama Monkey Park (嵐山モンキーパーク). Keep in mind, it is considered rude to drink and eat while walking in Japan! Take a seat by the water and enjoy your warm cup, before heading off to your next adventure!
There are no tables to freely sit-in at this well-known café, but there is one table available… for a price! The seat is inside their coffee house, away from the crowded lines, and right in front of their signature scenic view. It does cost 1,000 yen (which is approximately $7.15 usd), but you’ll have your very own personal private bubble to enjoy the taste of %Arabica. And despite this café being packed and crowded, the baristas took the time to ask if I had any allergies to soy before making my drink. If you ever find yourself in the beautiful city of Kyoto, make a stop by %Arabica Coffee before continuing your travel endeavors!