Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
21/08/2025
Heather Mallon, Pexels
Kyoto offers a distinctive drinking and nightlife scene, characterized by a blend of traditional Japanese izakayas, sophisticated cocktail establishments, and a growing presence of craft beer venues. The city's focus on quality and atmosphere over high-energy clubs provides an opportunity to experience local culture alongside expertly crafted beverages.
Entertainment and Music:
Kyoto's entertainment scene is characterized by its deep connection to traditional Japanese arts and a notable presence of intimate jazz clubs, offering a refined evening experience.
For live music, visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Japanese performances featuring instruments like the koto and shamisen. Additionally, the city boasts a vibrant jazz bar scene; venues such as Baja Bluet in Gion and Hello Dolly provide cozy atmospheres for enjoying live jazz or carefully selected records.
1. Bee's Knees
Type: Speakeasy Cocktail Bar
This hidden gem, disguised as a bookstore, offers a Prohibition-era ambiance with exposed brickwork and subtle lighting. Bartenders craft creative cocktails using Japanese ingredients like hoji tea and yuzu, providing a unique and artistic drinking experience. The atmosphere is intimate and stylish, making it a well-regarded spot for top-tier cocktails.
Getting There: Located in an alley near the Pontocho district, it is within walking distance from Kyoto Kawaramachi Station.
2. Bar Rocking Chair
Type: Classic Cocktail Bar
Nestled in Kyoto's backstreets, this bar offers a cozy, wood-paneled environment where highly professional bartenders meticulously prepare artisanal cocktails. The ambiance is quiet and sophisticated, with subtle lighting and comfortable seating, including unique rocking chairs. It is a favored destination for those seeking a refined Japanese cocktail experience.
Getting There: Situated down a side street, it is often walkable from central Kyoto areas like Gion, though precise walking distances vary. A taxi would be convenient for those less inclined to walk.
3. Akagakiya
Type: Traditional Izakaya
Akagakiya is an authentic Japanese izakaya with a nostalgic atmosphere, feeling like a scene from an older film. It has been serving locals since 1934, offering supreme quality food that captures the essence of traditional Japanese bar fare, including dishes without a set price. It provides a genuine local dining and drinking experience.
Getting There: This izakaya is located in Nakagyo Ward. Specific public transport details are not consistently highlighted, but many Kyoto izakayas are found in central, walkable districts.
4. Bungalow
Type: Craft Beer Bar
Bungalow is a lively and welcoming establishment in the bustling Karasuma area, recognized as a significant part of Kyoto's growing craft beer scene. It features a rotating selection of Japanese craft beers on tap and offers a menu of French and European bistro fare. The bar provides a good atmosphere for enjoying diverse brews.
Getting There: Located in the Karasuma area, many craft beer bars in Kyoto are within walking distance of each other and close to Karasuma station.
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