This post introduces the famous % Arabica cafe in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts. Since many visitors flock to this scenic location, long waiting lines are common. I’ll share the menu highlights along with proven methods to skip the wait and enjoy your coffee faster using the mobile app ordering system.
Location and Getting There
I visited % Arabica Arashiyama from my accommodation near Kyoto Kawaramachi Station using the subway system. After getting off at the station, it takes about 10 minutes on foot crossing the famous Togetsukyo Bridge to reach % Arabica. The riverside coffee shop is easy to spot from a distance due to the constant queue of waiting customers.
The cafe offers stunning views overlooking Katsura River and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, making it one of the most scenic coffee spots in western Kyoto.
Operating Hours
- 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Since Arashiyama is primarily a tourist destination, most establishments close early in the evening when visitors depart. % Arabica follows this pattern, closing at 6:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Expected Wait Times
As one of Kyoto’s most popular coffee destinations, % Arabica Arashiyama consistently has substantial queues. During my 11:00 AM visit, the total time from joining the line to receiving my coffee order was approximately 30 minutes. However, I’ll explain how to significantly reduce this waiting time using the strategies outlined below.
Menu Overview
% Arabica has expanded internationally, including locations in Korea, so some visitors may already be familiar with the offerings. The menu remains consistent across locations, featuring popular items like drip coffee, cafe latte, and the signature Kyoto Latte.
The Kyoto Latte tends to be sweeter, so I opted for the classic cafe latte for a cleaner coffee experience. Given the warm weather during my visit, I ordered it iced. Note that prices may have increased since my visit, so check the current pricing through the mobile app mentioned below.
Cafe Interior
The compact interior becomes quite crowded with customers waiting to place orders and collect drinks. During peak times, two separate queues often form to manage the crowd flow efficiently.
Skip the Line: Mobile App Ordering Guide
Here’s the game-changing method to avoid long waits at % Arabica Arashiyama: mobile app pre-ordering. Similar to Starbucks, % Arabica operates a dedicated mobile application for advance ordering.
You’ll notice QR code displays in the waiting area encouraging customers to download the app and skip the traditional queue.
Step-by-Step App Setup
- Download the App Visit: http://onelink.to/arabica or scan the QR codes displayed at the location.
- Account Registration The app initially prompts for phone number registration, but Korean phone numbers don’t receive verification texts. Select “Sign up with email” option instead for successful registration.
- Region Settings After email registration, change your location settings. The app may automatically detect your region and prompt changes, but if not:
- Tap the profile icon (top right)
- Select the red-highlighted menu option
- Change country and language settings
- Choose “Kyoto” (second option from bottom) as your region
- Switch language to English (Korean isn’t supported)
- Store Selection and Ordering
- Tap the right button at the bottom to select your pickup location
- Choose “Arashiyama” branch
- Browse menu and customize your order
- Select “Square” for direct card payment
Payment Options
The app offers two payment methods:
- Wallet: Requires minimum 1,000 yen top-up, processed through card payment
- Square: Direct card payment (recommended for tourists)
Since tourists typically visit once, I recommend using Square for immediate card payment without wallet setup.
Coffee Quality and Taste
Having tried % Arabica lattes in Kyoto, Korea, and Thailand, the coffee quality remains consistently high across locations. The rich espresso paired with creamy steamed milk creates a satisfying balance that I’ve enjoyed at each visit.
The signature % Arabica taste profile features bold coffee notes complemented by smooth, velvety milk texture.
Final Recommendations
% Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama delivers exceptional specialty coffee in one of Japan’s most picturesque settings. By utilizing the mobile app ordering system I’ve outlined, you can significantly reduce wait times and enjoy a more comfortable Arashiyama sightseeing experience.
The combination of premium coffee, scenic riverside location, and efficient mobile ordering makes this a worthwhile stop during your Kyoto adventure.
