Local Recs

Tourist spot

上賀茂 (Kamigamo)

Detail

Name: Kamigamo（上賀茂）
Access: Bus:25min(No.46)(From Kinkaku-ji)
Google Map: Google Map

Features

Kamigamo Shake-machi is a beautifully preserved traditional neighborhood in Kyoto, known for its historic wooden townhouses and serene atmosphere. This important cultural district offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s architectural heritage and the lifestyle of shrine families who have lived here for centuries. Stroll along quiet streets shaded by ancient trees, and experience a side of Kyoto that feels untouched by time. Perfect for history lovers and those seeking an authentic cultural journey away from the usual tourist spots.

建勲神社 (Kenkun Shrine)

Detail

Name: Kenkun Shrine（建勲神社）
Access: walk 21min / Bus 15min(No.204,205)(From Kinkaku-ji)
Tel: 075-451-0170
URL: https://kenkun-jinja.org/en/
Google Map: Google Map

Features

🔥Must-visit for samurai fans! Kenkun Shrine honors Oda Nobunaga, the warlord who dreamed of uniting Japan. Perched atop Mt. Funaoka, it offers epic views of Kyoto, peaceful grounds, and fiery autumn leaves. History and scenery—all for free!

大徳寺 (Daitoku-ji Temple)

Detail

Name: Daitoku-ji Temple（大徳寺）
Access: Walk 19min / Bus: 9min (No.12,204,205)(From Kinkaku-ji)
Tel: 075-491-0019
Google Map: Google Map

Features

🌿About Daitoku-ji Temple Daitoku-ji is a large Zen temple complex with over 20 sub-temples inside. Only a few—Daisen-in(大仙院), Zuihō-in(瑞峯院), and Ryōgen-in(龍源院)—are open to the public year-round. Other temples can be visited only during special openings in certain seasons. Each temple has its own peaceful garden and unique atmosphere. It’s a quiet, hidden spot in Kyoto where you can enjoy Zen culture and take a relaxing stroll.

Restaurant

らぁ麺きむら（Ramen kimura）

Detail

Name: らぁ麺きむら
Type: Ramen Restaurant
Access: Walk 6min (From Kinkaku-ji)
Address: 42 テナントＡクラスカ衣笠, Kinugasahigashi Goshonouchicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 〒603-8371
Tel: 075-467-0010
Cost: ¥1000-¥2000
Business Hours: 11:30-14:30 / 18:00-22:00 (Tuesday closed)
Recommended menu: Special fish stock soy sauce ramen（特製魚だし醤油らぁ麺）
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

ORO ESPRESSO（Cafe）

Detail

Name: ORO ESPRESSO（Cafe）
Type: Cafe
Access: Walk 1min (From Kinkaku-ji)
Address: 33-1 Kinugasa Kitatenjinmoricho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 〒603-8376
Tel: 080-8118-6718
Cost: ¥1-¥1000
Business Hours: 8:00~17:00（closed:Irregular）
Recommended menu: Coffee
URL: Google Map
English support available: English speaking staff available
Features＆service: Take-out only

和風かふぇ金皓庵（Matcha Cafe）

Detail

Name: 和風かふぇ金皓庵（Matcha Cafe）
Type: Matcha Cafe
Access: Walk 4min (From Kinkaku-ji)
Address: 13 Kinugasa Somoncho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 〒603-8363
Tel: 075-468-7666
Cost: ¥1-¥1000
Business Hours: 10:00~18:00 (Lo. 17:30)
Recommended menu: Matcha tiramisu(抹茶ティラミス), Kinkakuji soft serve ice cream(金閣ソフトクリーム)
URL: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available
Features＆service: Kinkakuji themed matcha cafe

Tourist spot

神泉苑 (Shinsen-en)

Detail

Name: Shinsen-en（神泉苑）
Access: Walk 8min(From Nijo-jo Castle)
Business Hours: 7:00～20:00
Tel: 075-821-1466
URL: http://www.shinsenen.org/
Google Map: Google Map

Features

A Place Where 1,200 Years of History Guide Your Wishes. Just a short walk from Nijo Castle, Shinsen-en is a tranquil garden and historic temple site once reserved for emperors.

御金神社(Mikane-jinja Shrine)

Detail

Name: Mikane-jinja Shrine （御金神社）
Access: Walk10min(From Nijo-jo Castle)
Tel: 075-222-2062
URL: https://mikane-jinja.or.jp/en/kyoto-mikane-shrine/
Google Map: Google Map

Features

💰A shrine for good fortune and wealth!Mikane Shrine is famous in Kyoto as a spot to boost your fortune, especially your financial luck. The golden torii gate and money-shaped charms are unique highlights. Bring your wallet and make a wish—you might just attract more good fortune your way!

三条商店街 (Sanjo Shopping district)

Detail

Name: Sanjo Shopping district（三条商店街）
Access: Walk 8 min(From Nijo-jo Castle)
Google Map: Google Map

Features

Sanjo Shopping Street is a vibrant hub where tradition meets modern life in Kyoto. Lined with charming shops, local eateries, and cozy cafes, it’s the perfect place to stroll, shop, and taste authentic Kyoto flavors. Discover unique souvenirs, handcrafted goods, and seasonal treats while soaking in the lively atmosphere loved by both locals and visitors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or a cultural experience, Sanjo Shopping Street offers something special around every corner.

だるま寺 (Horin-ji Temple)

Detail

Name: Horin-ji Temple（だるま寺）
Access: Bus: 20min (No.204)(From Nijo-jo Castle)
Business Hours: 9:00〜16:30
Cost: Adult:¥300
Tel: 075-841-7878
URL: https://www.darumadera.kyoto.jp/
Google Map: Google Map

Features

Enmachi Hōrin-ji, also known as the Daruma Temple, is a unique Buddhist temple in Kyoto famous for its collection of Daruma dolls—symbols of perseverance and good luck in Japanese culture. Visitors come to admire hundreds of colorful Darumas, each carrying hopes and wishes. Beyond the vibrant dolls, the temple boasts beautiful traditional architecture and meticulously maintained gardens that offer a peaceful retreat. Enmachi Hōrin-ji is a perfect place to experience Japan’s spiritual traditions, appreciate serene nature, and feel inspired by centuries of cultural heritage.

Restaurant

京都式まぜそば専門店脳天喜（Ramen Restaurant）

Detail

Name: Kyoto Style Mazesoba Noutenki（京都式まぜそば専門店脳天喜）
Type: Ramen Restaurant
Access: Walk 20min (From Nijo-jo Castle)
Address: 394-1 Juyonkencho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒602-8164
Tel: 075-600-9842
Cost: ¥1000-¥2000
Business Hours: Weekday: 11:00~14:30 (Lo. 14:00) / 18:00~21:30 (Lo. 21:00) Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 11:00~21:30 (Lo. 21:00)
(closed:Irregular)
Recommended menu: Soy Sauce Soupless Ramen（京都老舗竹岡醤油使用【京都醤油まぜそば】）
URL: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

Havana（Acai bowl cafe）

Detail

Name: Havana（Acai bowl cafe）
Type: Acai bowl cafe
Access: Walk 9min (From Nijo-jo Castle)
Address: 43-7 Havanaビル 1F,Daimonjicho,Nakagyo Ward,Kyoto,〒604-0071
Tel: 075-741-7426
Cost: ¥1000-¥2000
Business Hours: 11:00~25:00
URL: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map

肉バルdiningあげらたむ（Meat Bar）

Detail

Name: 肉バルdiningあげらたむ（Meat Bar）
Type: Meat Bar
Access: Walk 14min (From Nijo-jo Castle)
Address: 553 大建ビル 1階 Nishikiinokumacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒604-8363
Tel: 075-384-4489
Cost: ¥2000-¥3000
Business Hours: 11:30〜15:00(Lo.14:30)/ 18:00〜24:00(Lo.23:00)
（closed：Lunch: Saturday, Sunday / Dinner: Sunday）
Recommended menu: Cold Wagyu sirloin shabu-shabu ¥1980(和牛サーロインの冷しゃぶ)
Sukiyaki-style yukke-style Wagyu sirloin ¥2680(和牛サーロインのすき焼き風ユッケ仕立て)
100% Wagyu tomato lettuce cheeseburger ¥1380(和牛100%トマトレタスチーズバーガー)
URL: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

おかんの海鮮ちらし（Sushi）

Detail

Name: おかんの海鮮ちらし（Sushi）
Type: Sushi
Access: Walk 6min (From Nijo-jo Castle)
Address: 233-8 Daimonjicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒604-8315
Tel: 075-822-3727
Cost: ¥2000-¥3000
Business Hours: 11:30-14:00※Suturday,Sunday
（closed:Week day）
Recommended menu: Seafood Chirashi（海鮮ちらし）
URL: Instagram
LINE
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

京料理立神（Kyoto Cuisine）

Detail

Name: 京料理立神（Kyoto Cuisine）
Type: Kyoto Cuisine
Access: Walk 9min (From Nijo-jo Castle)
Address: 24-1 Marutacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒604-0077
Tel: 075-256-8733
Cost: ¥4000-¥15000
Business Hours: 12:00〜14:30 / 17:30-21:00 (closed:Monday & Irregular holiday once a month)
Recommended menu: Omakase course ¥16,500（おまかせ会席コース）
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

Tourist spot

大文字山 (Daimonji-Mountain)

Detail

Name: Daimonji-Mountain（大文字山）
Access: Bus 35min (No.5, 32, 105)(From Kawaramachi)
Google Map: Daimonji
Entrance

Features

Just east of Kyoto’s historic district, Daimonji-yama is famous for the giant "大" character lit during the summer Gozan no Okuribi festival. This peaceful mountain offers easy hiking trails through lush forests and stunning panoramic views of Kyoto city and surrounding mountains. Ideal for nature lovers and culture seekers alike, a climb to the summit rewards you with breathtaking scenery and a chance to connect with Kyoto’s spiritual traditions. Visit at sunrise or sunset for an unforgettable experience.

鴨川デルタ (Kamogawa Delta)

Detail

Name: Kamogawa Delta（鴨川デルタ）
Access: Train: 20min (Gion Shijo → Demachiyanagi)
Bus 30 min ※See the image below for access detail
Google Map: Google Map

Features

🌞A peaceful spot by the river—Kamo River Delta
The Kamo River Delta is a relaxing spot in the heart of Kyoto, where you can enjoy nature and unwind. With the flowing river and lush greenery, it’s a favorite place for locals to jog, picnic, or simply take in the peaceful surroundings. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere!

Restaurant

焼肉リン（Yakiniku）

Detail

Name: 焼肉リン（Yakiniku）
Type: Yakiniku
Access: Walk 5min(From Karasuma station)
Address: 414-1 Dainichicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8044
Cost: ¥3000-¥5000
Business Hours: Week day:17:00〜23:30(Lo.22:30)
Saturdays, Sundays16:00〜23:30(Lo.22:30)（closed:Wednesday）
Recommended menu: Value set(リンのお得セット)
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu＆English speaking staff available
Coupon available: Show this screen to get 5% OFF coupon ※Cannot be used in combination

Tea Lounge ISOLA

Detail

Name: Tea Lounge ISOLA
Type: Cafe
Access: Walk 8min (From Kawaramachi station)
Adress: 77 MOKU KYOTOビル 2F, Kankobokocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒600-8009
Tel: 080-2954－2414
Cost: ¥1000-¥2000
Business Hours: 11:30~21:00
Google Map: Google Map
SNS: Instagram
English support available: English menu available

おにぎり屋悟空（Rice Ball）

Detail

Name: おにぎり屋悟空（Rice Ball）
Type: Rice Ball
Access: Walk 8min (From Kawaramachi station)
Address: 46-2 Daikokucho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒604-8031
Cost: ¥1000-¥2000
Business Hours: 11:00~20:00（closed:Irregular）
Recommended menu: Fried white fish(白身フライ), Fried shrimp(エビフライ), Salmon cream cheese(サーモンクリームチーズ), Tuna(ツナ), Teriyaki(テリヤキ）
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

河原町焼肉ホルモン安東（Yakiniku）

Detail

Name: 河原町焼肉ホルモン安東（Yakiniku）
Type: Yakiniku
Access: Walk 7min (From Kawaramachi station)
Address: 40−1 六曜社 2階, Daikokucho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒604-8031
Tel: 075-255-0829
Cost: ¥3000-¥4000
Business Hours: 17:00~24:00 (closed:Wednesday)
Recommended menu: Wagyu beef platter(和牛盛り合わせ),local sake(地酒),Premium large meat(特上デカ肉)
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available
Features＆service: On weekdays from 17:00 to 19:00, draft beer and Kaku Highballs are 190 yen
Coupon: Show this screen for ”a free ice cream ”or "a drink"

BAR 市（Bar）

Detail

Name: BAR 市（Bar）
Type: Bar
Access: Walk 4min (From Kawaramachi station)
Address: 317-1-2 SAKIZO蛸薬師ビル 3F-C, Bizenjimacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 〒604-8023
Tel: 075-600-9114
Cost: ¥3000-¥4000
Business Hours: 18:00~26:00
Recommended menu: Gin and tonic made with Setouchi lemons(瀬戸内産レモンのジントニック), Espresso martini made with specially ordered coffee beans(特注コーヒー豆のエスプレッソマティーニ)
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

CLAY POT CURRY OHMIYA（Curry）

Detail

Name: CLAY POT CURRY OHMIYA（Curry）
Type: Curry
Access: Walk 5min (From Kawaramachi station)
Address: 438-1 辨天堂ビル 2F, Sakuranocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒604-8035
Tel: 075-254-0038
Cost: ¥1000-¥2000
Business Hours: Weekday: 11:30-15:00 / 17:30-20:30 Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 11:30-15:30 / 17:30-20:30
(closed:Irregular)
Recommended menu: Beef belly stewed in demi-glace curry 1,580 yen(牛バラ肉のデミグラス煮込みカレー),Tanba Kogen pork loin cutlet curry 1,500 yen(丹波高原豚のロースカツカレー),Kyoto beef curry stewed in red wine 1,880 yen(京の肉赤ワイン煮込みのビーフカレー)
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

朝うどん（Udon）

Detail

Name: 朝うどん（Udon）
Type: Udon
Access: Walk 3min (From Karasuma station)
Address: 664-7 Bantoyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒604-8143
Tel: 075-748-1570
Cost: ¥1000-¥2000
Business Hours: AM7:00-AM10:00
Recommended menu: Kasu Kujo Green Onion Udon, All Star Udon
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

北風と太陽Kitchen＆Wine（Italian & Spain）

Detail

Name: 北風と太陽Kitchen＆Wine（Italian & Spain）
Type: Italian & Spain
Access: Walk 3min (From Karasuma station)
Address: 139 Ami 四条烏丸 B1 Zenchojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒600-8431
Tel: 075-708-8336
Cost: ¥5000-¥9000
Business Hours: 15:00～0:00（Lo.23:00）
(closed:Tuesday,Wednesday)
Recommended menu: Hirai beef roast beef(平井牛のローストビーフ),Nanatani duck carpaccio, charcoal grilled lamb chops(七谷鴨のカルパッチョ),Charcoal grilled lamb chops(ラムチョップの炭火焼き),More than 10 types of wine(10種類以上のグラスワイン)
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available
Features＆service: Vegetarian options available, Children welcome
Coupon: "Show this screen and get our popular fig butter(いちじくバター) for free."

海鮮ときどきブタ（Seafood Bowl）

Detail

Name: 海鮮ときどきブタ（Seafood Bowl）
Type: Seafood Bowl
Access: Walk 4min (From Karasuma station)
Address: 680-1 No8 Hase Building, B1F, Omandokorocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 〒600-8413
Tel: 075-708-7508
Cost: ¥1000-¥2000
Business Hours: 11:00~21:00 (LO.20:30)
Recommended menu: Freely selectable seafood bowl（組み合わせ自由な海鮮丼）
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

焼肉寅のや（Yakiniku）

Detail

Name: 焼肉寅のや（Yakiniku）
Type: Yakiniku
Access: Walk 5min (From Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae station)
Address: 〒604-0925 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Kamihonnojimaecho, 480-3
Tel: 090-70949205
Cost: ¥5000-¥9000
Business Hours: 17:00~22:00 (closed:Thursday)
Recommended menu: Thickly sliced beef tongue
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available
Coupon: "Show this screen and get ”a free drink

昭和風バーレトロ(Bar RETRO)

Detail

Name: 昭和風バーレトロ(Bar RETRO)
Type: Bar
Access: Walk 4min (From Kawaramachi station)
Address: 河原町商都ビル 2F, Narayacho, , Nakagyo Ward,Kyoto 604-8033
Tel: 075-254-7571
Cost: ¥3000-¥4000
Business Hours: 19:00〜5:00 (closed:Irregular)
Recommended menu: Retro Original Bomb(レトロオリジナルバクダン)
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available
Coupon: Show this screen to get a free Retro Original Bomb(レトロオリジナルバクダン)
※Only when ordering 2 or more drinks

お肉とビストロHaLeResort（Meat Bar）

Detail

Name: お肉とビストロHaLeResort（Meat Bar）
Type: Meat Bar
Access: Walk 8min (From here)
Address: 245 Yamazakicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8032
Tel: 075-254-7706
Cost: ¥3000-¥7000
Business Hours: Lunch:Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays：11:30〜15:00(Lo.14:00) Dinner:17:00〜23:00(Lo.22:00)(closed:Tuesday)
Recommended menu: "Premium Meat Plate" is a steak plate with 5 types of carefully selected meat including Japanese Black Beef and Kyoto vegetables.（「プレミアム肉盛りプレート」黒毛和牛の入った5種類の厳選したお肉と京野菜のステーキプレート）
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available

Tourist spot

祇園白川 (Gion Shirakawa)

Detail

Name: Gion Shirakawa（祇園白川）
Access: Walk 7 min(From Gion shijo station)
Google Map: Google Map

Features

Gion Shirakawa is one of Kyoto’s most picturesque and historic neighborhoods, famed for its charming canals lined with traditional wooden machiya houses. Strolling along the tranquil Shirakawa River, visitors can experience the timeless beauty of old Kyoto, where geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) still grace the streets. By night, the softly lit lanterns create a magical atmosphere, perfect for romantic walks and unforgettable photos. Gion Shirakawa offers a unique glimpse into Kyoto’s cultural heritage and elegant charm, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Restaurant

まつなが和牛焼肉祇園久成（Yakiniku）

Detail

Name: まつなが和牛焼肉祇園久成（Yakiniku）
Type: Yakiniku
Access: Walk 6min (From Gion shijo station)
Address: 69-3 Motoyoshicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 〒605-0087
Tel: 075-708-7470
Cost: ¥10000〜
Business Hours: 17:00〜23:00
Recommended menu: Matsunaga Wagyu "Sushi"(まつなが和牛"寿司"),Matsunaga Wagyu Cutlet Sandwich(まつなが和牛カツサンド),Chef's Choice Platter(おまかせ盛り合わせ)
URL: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English speaking staff available
Features＆service: This restaurant is located in Gion, Kyoto. Our Wagyu beef, which is raised with particular attention to its lineage and breeding, has an exquisite balance of lean meat and marbling. Enjoy a luxurious moment with dishes prepared by our skilled chef and carefully selected wines.

宮川豚衛門（Tonkatsu）

Detail

Name: 宮川豚衛門（Tonkatsu）
Type: Tonkatsu
Access: Walk 10min (From Gion shijo station)
Address: 440-10 Nishigomoncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 〒605-0816
Tel: 080-4087-9504
Cost: ¥3000-4000
Business Hours: 11:00～15:00 / 17:00〜21:00 (closed:Monday, Tuesday)
Recommended menu: Hayashi SPF Pork Loin 150g~(林SPFポークロース 150g～),Hayashi SPF Pork Rib Loin 200g~(林SPFポークリブロース 200g～),Hayashi SPF Pork Fillet 120g~(林SPFポークヘレ 120g～),Iwanaka Pork Loin 150g~(岩中ポークロース 150g～),Iwanaka Pork Rib Loin 200g~(岩中ポークリブロース 200g～),Awayuki Pork Loin 150g~(あわ雪ポークロース 150g～),Awayuki Pork Rib Loin 200g~(あわ雪ポークリブロース 200g～)
SNS: Instagram
Google Map: Google Map
English support available: English menu available
Other: We recommend booking from here → Booking link