Saga Par

Set along the walking paths of Arashiyama, Saga Par operates as a convenient walk-up stand where visitors use a ticket vending machine to pick up chilled sweets and freshly fried snacks. The standout offering is the tofu soft-serve, distinguished by a gentle soybean aroma and a mild, understated sweetness, nicely accented by a crisp, fragrant yatsuhashi cinnamon wafer. The roster also features an aromatic Kyoto matcha soft-serve, a fragrant chestnut variation served in autumn, and festive combinations dressed with three-colour dango skewers or miniature sakura mochi.

Beyond its dessert selections, the stand provides a solid lineup of warm savoury snacks prepared to order. The yubasuki croquette encases tender, melt-in-the-mouth potatoes simmered in a savoury-sweet pork sukiyaki style, offering a hearty bite during a neighborhood walk. Guests can also pick up skewered yuba cheese—crisp tofu skin wrapped around molten cheese—or Arashiyama fried chicken, both of which pair readily with a cold draft beer.

The beverage counter extends well beyond standard soft drinks. Floats combine Wasanbon-sweetened Uji matcha with scoops of tofu or matcha soft-serve, alongside espresso choices including caffe lattes and flat whites. Whether taken to go for a stroll with views toward Togetsukyo Bridge or enjoyed while resting on the benches outside, the shop serves as a handy Arashiyama pause.