Starbucks Kamiyacho Shareo Reserve

The only Starbucks Reserve location in Hiroshima Prefecture, tucked into Shareo underground mall beneath Kamiyacho. This is the original Starbucks in Hiroshima, open since before any of the above-ground branches, and the Reserve designation means it runs a Clover brewing machine and stocks beans you won't find at a standard location. The room has brick walls, a large solid-wood communal table, and a dedicated Reserve counter. It feels different from the glass-and-chrome stores above ground.

For working, the layout matters. Outlets are at the counter seats facing the underground passageway and at the large 8-person table. The smaller 2-person tables scattered around the floor have no power. If you need to charge, get there early and aim for a counter stool. Wifi runs on the in-store Starbucks network plus docomo and Softbank Wi2 300. Multiple networks means more options if one is congested. There is no time limit. Laptop use is confirmed as normal here, and reviews mention using it regularly for remote work and study. The glass walls buffer the foot traffic noise from the Shareo corridor, so it stays calmer than you'd expect for a central underground location.

The Reserve programme here goes beyond standard espresso drinks. The Clover machine brews single-origin filter coffee to order, and staff walk you through the bean origin and flavour profile if you ask. One reviewer described ordering a Guatemalan coffee and going through the roasted beans, ground beans, and drip coffee sequentially. The regular Starbucks menu is fully stocked alongside it. Espresso drinks, Frappuccinos, seasonal items, sandwiches, pastries, and cheesecake are all available. Soy milk is available for non-dairy drinkers, and at least one reviewer confirmed vegan menu options are available. The store also holds Reserve coffee seminars on-site (around ¥1,650 for 1 hour), which run periodically and can be booked through the website.

A few things to know before going. The store is underground, so there is no natural light or street view. Commuters pack it before the 7:30 opening on weekdays, and Saturday afternoons are peak busy (popular index hits maximum around 14:00). Weekday mid-morning is the sweet spot for a working session. The air conditioning is reported as running cold, so bring a layer. Mobile Order and Pay is supported through the Starbucks app, though reviewers note it can lag during rush periods.