% Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama Review 2026: Latte & Location

You've likely seen it pop up on your feed: the iconic % Arabica coffee shop in Kyoto's breathtaking Arashiyama district! Often affectionately called "Eungkeopi" by some, this spot is a top hit when you search for cafes in Arashiyama.

While % Arabica has expanded globally, there's something special about experiencing it in Kyoto, especially amidst the stunning scenery of Arashiyama. I just had to check it out during my visit.

% Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama: Location & Exterior

Hours: Daily 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Finding % Arabica is part of the Arashiyama experience! After crossing the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, follow the Katsura River. You'll spot the clean, minimalist white building on your left.

The striking white building with its expansive glass windows is hard to miss, especially with the usual line of coffee lovers waiting outside. It’s a beacon for caffeine connoisseurs!

Inside % Arabica Coffee

The interior of % Arabica is quite compact. There isn't really a dedicated seating area; it's mostly a space for ordering and waiting, which can make it feel even smaller when it's busy.

However, the large glass windows offer a magnificent view of the river and surrounding nature. It’s the kind of scenery that would make even a workday feel refreshing!

While waiting, I enjoyed browsing the % Arabica original merchandise and coffee beans on display. It’s a nice way to pass the time before your coffee is ready.

% Arabica Coffee Menu & Beans

A convenient menu board is set up outside the shop, so you can decide on your drink before stepping inside.

Drinks are available in both HOT/ICE options, and for hot beverages, you can choose between 8oz or 12oz sizes!

Depending on your drink, you can also opt for soy or oat milk for a small additional fee (around ~$1 or less)!

Beyond their signature coffees, they also offer other delightful options like Matcha Lattes and Lemonade.

On one side of the shop, you'll find freshly roasted beans on display, and you can even sniff them to pick your favorite aroma. These beans are available for purchase in 200g-500g (~0.4-1.1 lbs) or 1kg (~2.2 lbs) bags.

Waiting at % Arabica Coffee

I visited around 10:00 AM on a Tuesday and waited for approximately 30 minutes to place my order. It’s a popular spot, so be prepared for a queue, especially during peak tourist season!

After ordering, you'll receive a vibrating pager. My drink was ready about 10 minutes after placing the order, so total wait time from arrival to coffee in hand was around 40 minutes.

My Kyoto Latte Review

I ordered a warm 8oz Kyoto Latte, opting for soy milk. The latte art was so beautiful, it felt a shame to put the lid on!

The Kyoto Latte is noticeably richer and nuttier than a regular latte. I was a bit worried it might be too sweet because of the condensed milk, but it wasn't an overpowering sweetness. Instead, it was a subtle, lingering sweetness that complemented the coffee perfectly.

The bitterness of the espresso blended wonderfully with the unique nutty and clean taste of the soy milk. However, if you're not a fan of soy milk's distinct flavor, this might not be your preferred choice.

One of the biggest perks is sipping your coffee while gazing at the refreshing river flowing by. It truly adds a touch of calm and relaxation to your travel adventures.

Just remember, you're not coming here for a plush, comfy cafe chair. It's more about savoring your drink while soaking in the spectacular riverside scenery. If you're a coffee enthusiast visiting Arashiyama, I highly recommend making a stop here!