This is a well-established "live-house" — or, in plain English, a music venue. Juttoku is located in an old warehouse (kura) not far from Nijo Castle in the west of the city. Expect to see anything if you decide to just drop in on spec - anything in terms of both quality and genre. Rock, blues, thrash, Japanese pop, Irish fiddle, electronica, you name it and it has probably been played at Juttoku. Usually pretty friendly, though a little out of the way.
The serene premises of Nanzenji Temple are home to one of Kyoto’s most renowned teahouses and a traditional Japanese restaurant, Hyotei. This family-run restaurant boasts of not only upholding Japan’s culinary heritage, but also passing it down to younger generations. Home to sublime kaiseki dining, Hyotei also serves some of the best egg dishes, such as their signature soft-boiled egg. Devoid of zany garnishes, the dishes focus on flavors and rely on the wide-ranging ingredients to add color and vibrancy to the meals. On your visit to Hyotei, do not miss the breakfast rice gruel and the irresistible wine-marinated tilefish.
Over the years since 1974, Taku Taku has played host to quite a few international stars, including Screamin' Jay Hawkins, Los Lobos, Taj Mahal and Dr. John, but most of the groups are local, offering Japanese rock and pop. Westerners well aware of the concept of "warehouse parties" will feel right at home here. And this particular warehouse is made of wood, which gives the whole place an aged and historic, if somewhat shabby, feel. Taku Taku has been rated among the best live houses in the Kansai, and it is most certainly a good place to get an idea what the yoof of today is all about.
Shishin Samurai Cafe & Bar is a gem of an establishment at Kamimyōkakujichō, Nakagyou in the city of Kyoto. The bar is housed within a lovely old house which dates back to over a century. Most of its patrons are the residents of the area. But if a tourist does happen to chance upon it, he is greeted with much warmth and affection and soon ends up with a whole new bunch of Japanese friends.
There are some special occasions that truly deserve an extravagant meal and night out. Kitcho Arashiyama is one of the places to go to. Found on Susukinobaba-cho at Ukyo-ku, the restaurant has the most elaborate décor and preparation. Here, you can opt for a geisha to be your dining companion. Her costume, make-up and mannerisms are put together to perfection, just like the meal that is placed before you. The establishment is open for lunch and dinner.
Kurakura is a gastro-pub that can be found at Ameyacho, Simogyo-ku in the Japanese city of Kyoto. It is in pubs like this that a tourist feels like they’re finally getting the true Japanese experience of mouth watering sashimi and tasty sake. The décor is styled after the ancient tradition of local taverns, replete with wooden walls and ceilings and tatami mats. The bar is open through the week, except on Sundays, from 5p to 11p.
Shishin Samurai Cafe & Bar is a gem of an establishment at Kamimyōkakujichō, Nakagyou in the city of Kyoto. The bar is housed within a lovely old house which dates back to over a century. Most of its patrons are the residents of the area. But if a tourist does happen to chance upon it, he is greeted with much warmth and affection and soon ends up with a whole new bunch of Japanese friends.
As well as being a world famous traditional inn, Kinmata also serves exquisite lunches and dinners for non-guests, although reservations 24 hours in advance are necessary. The beautifully prepared and presented full-course meals are served in either western or traditional style rooms overlooking a delightful garden. Lunch and breakfast both include the freshest seafood and vegetables from the nearby Nishiki market.
This pleasant coffee shop near Kinkakuji Temple claims to be the first siphon cafe in town, dating from 1955. True or not, it certainly ranks among the very best the city has to offer. Neatly decorated in wood and white tiles, the cafe invites you to relax and enjoy your favorite cuppa. Special coffees, including Irish, are in the JPY600-JPY750 range, and there is a selection of juices for JPY480-JPY500, plus some good plain or toasted sandwiches including chicken, bacon and salad at JPY700-JPY800. Hanafusa is part of a larger chain and also sells freshly ground coffee.
Ran Hotei is situated in a quaint old building and specializes in “Chanoyu” or “Japanese tea ceremony" as well as delicious desserts. Go through the intricacies of pairing matcha tea (powdered green tea) with cheesecakes. It also serves charming green tea sweets shaped and colored like grapes, peaches and other fruits. Other items include a selection of green tea lattes and smoothies, Matcha Fudge Cake, Taisho Roman Ice, and rice served with Japanese curry. Stepping into the antique tearoom is like entering an Art Deco art gallery and bookshop. Right from the stained glass doorway and vintage chandeliers to a restored church pew speak of another era. Tatami (rice straw) mats, book racks and Hotei statues complete the picture. Ran Hotei also gladly welcomes dogs of all breeds and sizes. On some days, you can even attend art exhibitions and music events.
There are some special occasions that truly deserve an extravagant meal and night out. Kitcho Arashiyama is one of the places to go to. Found on Susukinobaba-cho at Ukyo-ku, the restaurant has the most elaborate décor and preparation. Here, you can opt for a geisha to be your dining companion. Her costume, make-up and mannerisms are put together to perfection, just like the meal that is placed before you. The establishment is open for lunch and dinner.
Kurakura is a gastro-pub that can be found at Ameyacho, Simogyo-ku in the Japanese city of Kyoto. It is in pubs like this that a tourist feels like they’re finally getting the true Japanese experience of mouth watering sashimi and tasty sake. The décor is styled after the ancient tradition of local taverns, replete with wooden walls and ceilings and tatami mats. The bar is open through the week, except on Sundays, from 5p to 11p.