Top 8 Kawadoko River Dining Restaurants in Kyoto (Kamogawa, Kibune & Takao)

Enjoying a meal while listening to the gentle murmur of the river—this is the charm of kawadoko, a unique and luxurious summer tradition in Kyoto. If you’re visiting Kyoto during the summer, don’t miss the chance to dine on a kawadoko and make your trip even more memorable. In this article, we introduce the three main areas where you can experience kawadoko: Kamo River, Kibune, and Takao, along with their distinct features and recommended restaurants.   Index What is Kawadoko (kawayuka) in Kyoto? The 3 Main Kawadoko Areas in Kyoto and Their Unique Features 3 Must-Try Dishes on the Kawadoko: Sweetfish (Ayu), Sukiyaki, and Somen Recommended Kawadoko Restaurants in Kamogawa Recommended Kawadoko Restaurants in Kibune Recommended Kawadoko Restaurants in Takao Kawadoko or Kawayuka refers to outdoor seating set up by restaurants along or above riverbanks in Kyoto. Originally devised as a clever way to escape the sweltering summer heat of Kyoto’s basin climate, this tradition has been passed down through generations. From spring to autumn, restaurants offer meals on these riverside platforms, allowing guests to enjoy not only the cuisine but also the uniquely atmospheric charm of Kyoto. It’s one of the must-try seasonal experiences when visiting the city.   There are three main areas in Kyoto where you can enjoy dining on kawadoko platforms: Kamo River in the city center, Kibune, a mountain village in northern Kyoto, and Takao, a nature-rich area. Interestingly, the terminology differs slightly depending on the location. In the Kamo River area, the platforms are generally referred to as kawayuka or noryo-yuka, while in Kibune and Takao, the traditional term kawadoko is used.   ■Kamo River In this area, elevated wooden platforms are built over the Misosogi River, an artificial stream on the west bank of the Kamo River. A wide variety of restaurants—including those serving traditional Kyoto cuisine, French, Italian, and café fare—line the river, offering diverse dining experiences.   ■Kibune Here, the platforms are placed directly above the Kibune River, so close that you can almost reach out and touch the clear stream. The temperature is said to be around 10°C cooler than in central Kyoto, making it a perfect summer retreat.   ■Takao Located about an hour’s drive from central Kyoto, Takao features platforms set along the Kiyotaki River. With covered seating, this area offers a more weather-proof kawadoko experience, allowing visitors to enjoy their meal comfortably even on less sunny days.   Opening Period Number of restaurants Atmosphere Access Kamo River May 1– Oct 15   About 90 Despite being close to lively districts, the Kamo River area offers a refined and atmospheric setting, thanks to the river itself and the lush greenery along its banks. ・Get off at Hankyu Kyoto Line Kyoto Kawaramachi Station ・Get off at Subway Tozai Line Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station Kibune May 1 – Sep 30   About 20 Nestled in the forested mountains of northern Kyoto, the Kibune area is surrounded by rich greenery and the soothing sounds of flowing water, creating a truly relaxing atmosphere. ・Take the Eizan Railway to Kibuneguchi Station, then transfer to Kyoto Bus No. 33 and get off at Kibune Bus StopTake the Eizan Railway to Kibuneguchi Station, then transfer to Kyoto Bus No. 33 and get off at Kibune Bus Stop Takao Mid April– Nov 30   *Evening Kawadoko operates until Mid Sep. About 10 A refreshing escape from the city, the Takao area is immersed in nature and offers a peaceful ambiance where the sound of the clear river is especially prominent. ・From Hankyu Kyoto Line Shijo-Omiya Station or Kyoto Station, take the JR Bus (Keihoku Line) and get off at Toganoo Bus Stop ・From JR Sagano Line Hanazono Station, take a taxi (about 10–15 minutes)   *Latest information for 2026 @media screen and (min-width:700px) {.table_outer{width:100%;}} @media screen and (max-width:700px) {.table_outer{overflow-x:scroll;} .table_outer table{width:200vw;}} When dining on a kawadoko (riverside terrace) in Kyoto, there are a few dishes you definitely don’t want to miss—especially during the summer season. Here are three seasonal specialties to enjoy: Ayu (sweetfish), sukiyaki, and somen noodles.   ■ Ayu (Sweetfish) Ayu is a freshwater fish in season during the summer and is a staple of kawadoko cuisine. The most popular way to enjoy it is shioyaki—grilled slowly over charcoal with a light sprinkle of salt to enhance its delicate flavor. Another recommended preparation is tempura, where the whole fish is coated and deep-fried until crispy, making even the bones deliciously edible. ■ Sukiyaki This traditional Japanese hot pot dish originated in Kyoto. The Kyoto-style sukiyaki begins by greasing a cast-iron pan with beef fat, then grilling slices of domestic beef. The meat is flavored with a blend of soy sauce and sugar, and then cooked together with locally sourced seasonal vegetables in alternating layers. The savory-sweet flavor makes it a hearty favorite, even in summer.   ■ Somen (Thin Wheat Noodles) Somen are thin noodles made from wheat flour, boiled and then chilled in cold water before serving. Typically enjoyed by dipping into a homemade broth made from soy sauce and mirin, these noodles are refreshingly cold and smooth, offering a perfect way to cool down during Kyoto’s hot and humid summer. A Beloved Local Bistro [Ikariya Shokudo]   Housed in a beautifully renovated 100-year-old kyomachiya townhouse, Ikariya Shokudo offers a uniquely Kyoto-style bistro experience, blending traditional Japanese architecture with elegant Western interior design. Run by chefs who have trained in Italy and France, the restaurant is known for its outstanding cuisine at reasonable prices. A standout dish here is the “Cocotte Souffle Fromage,” a fluffy and comforting blend of egg, white sauce, and cheese, baked slowly in a cast-iron cocotte. Other popular options include the tender “Confit of Chicken Thigh” cooked at low temperature, and the seasonal “Kawadoko Lunch Course,” which lets you enjoy your meal riverside during the summer. Enjoy a Stylish Kawadoko Experience [B STORE 1st]   Located along the banks of the Kamo River in Kyoto, B STORE 1st is a stylish restaurant housed in a beautifully renovated 100-year-old machiya (traditional townhouse). Blending classic Kyoto charm with a modern sensibility, this elegant space offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience. Its kawadoko (riverside terrace) seats provide front-row views of the changing seasons, perfectly complementing the creative dishes served. At lunch, guests can enjoy a casual set menu featuring seasonal vegetables, charcoal-grilled meats, and pasta. The restaurant also offers coffee roasted in-house by its sister shop, B STORE 2nd, and pastries crafted by an in-house pâtissier. Dinner is served in a “neo-izakaya” style, with a focus on à la carte dishes and a carefully curated selection of wines and original cocktails by a dedicated sommelier—perfect for a laid-back yet sophisticated evening by the river. A beef specialty restaurant with over 150 years of history Moritaya Kiyamachi Branch   Founded in 1869 as Kyoto’s first restaurant specializing in beef, this historic establishment offers premium Kuroge Wagyu—including Kyoto-raised beef from its own ranch in the Tamba-Wachi Highlands—as sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, oil-grilled dishes, and steak. If you’re dining on the kawayuka, the sukiyaki—cooked right at your table by the staff—is highly recommended. Lightly seasoned, it lets you fully savor the rich flavor and aroma of the beef. Another standout is the oil-yaki, where thick cuts of loin, tenderloin, and seasonal vegetables are grilled on a heavy iron plate to juicy perfection. Seasonal Kyoto Cuisine with the Sound of a Flowing River [Kifune Hiroya]   Overlooking the clear stream of the Kifune River—the headwaters of the Kamo River—Kifune Hiroya offers an open-air riverside dining experience that feels one with nature. Every seat is designed to be close to the flowing water, creating a refreshing atmosphere that helps guests forget the summer heat. The restaurant serves traditional kaiseki meals that showcase the seasonal flavors of Kyoto. Signature dishes include salt-grilled sweetfish (ayu), pike conger (hamo), and yuba (tofu skin), beautifully presented to evoke a cool, seasonal elegance. While lunchtime kaiseki on the kawadoko (riverside platform) is delightful, the evening experience—with the riverside illuminated—adds a magical touch. Please note that advance reservations are required. A Serene Riverside Retreat Surrounded by Nature [Kifune Beniya]   Nestled in a tranquil forest setting along the Kifune River, Kifune Beniya is a long-established ryokan that offers a deeply atmospheric kawadoko (riverside) dining experience. With the soothing sounds of the river and dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, guests can enjoy Kyoto’s seasonal delicacies in a truly picturesque setting. Meals are served in a traditional kaiseki style, with the menu changing to reflect the ingredients of each season. Signature dishes include salt-grilled sweetfish (ayu), pike conger (hamo), and yuba (tofu skin)—all carefully prepared to delight both the eyes and the palate. Dining is available on the kawadoko for both lunch and dinner, with the evening ambiance enhanced by soft lighting creating an unforgettable, romantic experience. Advance reservation is required. Casual Dining Without Reservations [Kibune Sagenta]   Located in the upper reaches of the Kibune River, Sagenta is a self-service style café and restaurant where you can casually enjoy kawadoko dining without the need for a reservation. If you’re looking for a more formal kaiseki dining experience, visit its sister restaurant Ugenta, located 200 meters south. Sagenta offers a colorful bento box featuring 25 different dishes, salt-grilled ayu (sweetfish), and their unique “Deep-fried Ayu with Sômen,” which lets you enjoy both ayu and chilled noodles in one dish. You’ll also find a variety of refreshing sweets and drinks perfect for summer, including cream sodas, matcha parfaits, and cheesecakes. More to Explore in Kibune After enjoying kawadoko dining in Kibune, why not visit Kifune Shrine, one of Japan’s most renowned power spots? Check out the link below for more information about Kifune Shrine and make the most of your visit!   ▼For more details▼ ＜Kyoto＞ Kifune Shrine｜Perfect guide from benefits and access to omamori! Enjoy Kawadoko Cuisine Even on a Day Trip [Kinsuitei Takao]   Kinsuitei is a traditional ryokan in Takao that serves kawadoko cuisine from May 1 through the end of September. While it’s known for its private family baths with views of vibrant greenery, guests can also enjoy a meal here without staying overnight. Around mid-June through early July, fireflies light up the nearby Kiyotaki River, creating a magical summer atmosphere. At lunch, you can savor Kyoto-style bento meals or multi-course kaiseki featuring seasonal Kyoto vegetables and salt-grilled ayu (sweetfish). In the evening, the menu transforms into a refreshing summer kaiseki with Kyoto delicacies like hamo otoshi (parboiled pike conger) and hamo shabu (hot pot). Beautiful River Views from Every Seat Togano Chaya   Built to extend over the Kiyotaki River, Togano Chaya offers sweeping views of Takao’s lush nature and clear streams from every seat. One of its highlights is that you can enjoy kawadoko dining without needing a reservation. The menu ranges from light and comforting dishes like chicken miso udon—featuring Kyoto-raised young chicken, grilled mochi, shimeji mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables—to more traditional meals such as a set that includes salt-grilled ayu (sweetfish). You can also stop by just for drinks and dessert with their café menu. Enjoying kawadoko—a tradition that is said to have begun along the Kamo River around 1670—will surely make your stay in Japan even more memorable. While some restaurants require reservations, others may not accept them, so be sure to check the latest information on each restaurant’s website before your visit.

Kyo-Train Garaku | Feel Kyoto, From the Moment You Step On Board – Specially Designed Train

Hankyu Railway’s sightseeing limited express, Kyo-train GARAKU, debuted in 2019. Hankyu trains are traditionally known for their maroon car bodies, golden olive colored seats, and wood grain walls, but the Kyo-train GARAKU is a special sightseeing express designed in the image of the nature and traditional architecture of Kyoto, and the design of the car body and the interior of the train is very different from the usual trains.   -INDEX- Where can I board the Kyo-train GARAKU? When does the Kyo-train GARAKU operate? How much does it cost to ride the Kyo-train GARAKU? Can I bring baggage into Kyo-Torayin GARAKU? What are the features of Kyo-train GARAKU? Car 1: A Journey to Kyoto Starting in Autumn Car 2: A car representing the dignified winter of Kyoto Car 3: Carrying the gorgeous spring air Car 4: Represents Kyoto’s Mid-Summer with Aoi Car 5: The theme is Kyoto in a refreshing early autumn Car 6: An elegant vehicle to relax in early spring A special space to relax and enjoy the luxury of sightseeing in Kyoto. The following six stations are available for boarding the Kyo-train GARAKU. Osaka-umeda Station, Juso Station, Awaji Station, Katsura Station, Karasuma Station, and Kyoto-kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line. If possible, take the train from Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station or Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, and enjoy the 45-minute journey of the Kyo-train GARAKU.   Kyo-train GARAKU operates as part of the Hankyu Railway, and you can ride it with a regular Hankyu train ticket.For details on how to purchase tickets and how to ride the train, please refer to the links below: How to Buy Tickets (Hankyu Railway Official Site) How to Ride the Train (Hankyu Railway Official Site) It runs only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Special operating days may be set up during tourist seasons.   Please click here for the timetable. Only the regular fare is required. No express fee will be charged. You can ride with regular tickets or IC cards such as ICOCA. Also, it is not a reserved seat, so you can freely move just like in regular trains.   As of April 28, 2026, standard fares are as follows: ・From Osaka Umeda to Kyoto Kawaramachi: 410 yen for adults ・From Osaka Umeda to Arashiyama: 410 yen for adults On the Hankyu Line, each passengers may bring up two luggages in the car for free of charge as long as each luggage meets the following 3 conditions. 1. Maximum length of 1 side is within 2 meters 2. The maximum sum of the three sides is within 2.5 meters 3. Weighs less than 30 kilograms   There is no space to store large items. Please also take other passengers into consideration when carrying large luggage. Each car features a different design. Each of the cars, from No. 1 to No. 6, has a different theme, with a calm design based on flowers, birds, and traditional patterns. I’ll show you one car at a time from here! This is a seat with a design of “maple in flowing water,” a typical pattern of autumn leaves. This is an amazing design, with tatami mats affixed to the backrest and even to the seat. The single-seater seat also has a high backrest so that you don’t have to worry about the people behind you. The wrap-around design of the armrests is made of wood, giving it a warm atmosphere. The aisle area is wide and spacious. The side-by-side seats are arranged along the walls, and it’s spectacular to see all the way to the back. This is a dry landscape garden that was very popular when it first debuted. In Japan, there are many sightseeing trains with various designs, but this is not one of them. The fact that there is a garden inside the train is amazing! Car 3’s theme is spring. The interior of the car has a soft atmosphere with a cherry blossom pattern and pink and pale beige colors. Car 3 has seats facing the windows. I can imagine how wonderful it would be to ride in this car and pass through the rows of cherry blossom trees. Car 4, with its summer theme, has cloisonne-printed seats and checkered walls, making it the most austere and chic of the six cars. Awnings are made of sudare (bamboo screens), and the upper part is covered with yukimi-shoji (sliding doors), giving it the atmosphere of a traditional Kyoto townhouse. It is recommended that you sit in a spacious single-seater seat and enjoy your trip alone. Car 5 has a tsuboniwa garden with tsukubai and garden stones, themed in early autumn before the autumn season deepens. The interior of the train has a glittering atmosphere with a multi-colored checkerboard pattern using bright colors. Congratulatory motifs such as cranes and pine trees are painted around the circular windows. The Kyo-train GARAKU has an impressive interior passage. Unlike ordinary Hankyu trains, the dark wood-grained aisles are wide and spacious. It’s like a well-kept hallway in a well-established Japanese inn. The leathers and lighting are also designed in a modern Japanese style to blend in with the scenery inside the train. There are no restrooms or vending machines on board. Please make sure to prepare everything you need before boarding.   The sightseeing limited express “Kyo-train GARAKU” was designed with the idea of “making people enjoy the time they spend traveling to Kyoto. I hope you enjoy the ride on the Kyo-train GARAKU, both on the way there and back. ▼Check this out▼ Tour Arashiyama and Kawaramachi With the Hankyu Train “Kyo-train Garaku” Within Walking Distance from Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station: Easy-to-Visit Popular Sightseeing Spots

Kyoto Nishiyama｜An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto!

When it comes to sightseeing in Kyoto, most people go to the center of Kyoto city and Arashiyama, where you can visit World Heritage temples and shrines, experience unique Japanese culture, and more. The next hot tourist spot in Kyoto that I would like to recommend is Kyoto Nishiyama! Not only is it still not well known to foreigners, but it is a place full of attractions that even Japanese people in the know are not familiar with.   I have already been to famous sightseeing spots in Kyoto. I want to make a trip to Kyoto that is different from others. Want to visit a sightseeing spot in Kyoto that is not well known yet. If so, please check it out!   -INDEX- ・Where is Kyoto Nishiyama? ・Why Nishiyama, Kyoto is a great place for sightseeing ・Nishiyama area attractions and sightseeing spots ・Spacious and worth seeing! Yoshimine Temple, one of the three mountains in Nishiyama, Kyoto ・Komyo-ji, the most beautiful tunnel of autumn leaves in Kyoto ・The “Yanagidani-Kannon” where you can have a valuable experience, famous for “Hana-Chouzu” ・Sightseeing spots in Nishiyama, Kyoto where you can see Japanese-style scenery! Kyoto City Rakusai Bamboo Park, Bamboo Path ・”Nagaokatenmangu” accessible from the station, famous for plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, and azaleas ・Cultural Experience in Nishiyama, Kyoto｜Shoboji Temple ・Factory tour in Nishiyama, Kyoto｜Suntory “Natural Water Brewery” ・Distillery tour in Nishiyama, Kyoto｜Suntory Yamazaki Distillery ・Hot Springs in Nishiyama, Kyoto｜Open 24 Hours “Kyoto Takenosato Onsen Manyonoyu” ・Recommended lunch spot “Taut” in Nishiyama, Kyoto The central area of Kyoto City is surrounded by mountains on three sides. With the capital at its center, the area is called “Higashiyama” to the east, “Kitayama” to the north, and “Nishiyama” to the west. Nishiyama refers to the area spanning Rakusai, Nishikyo-ku, Muko City, Nagaokakyo City, and Oyamazaki Town in Kyoto City, and is located 10 to 30 minutes by train from Hankyu Kyoto Line Kyoto-kawaramachi station toward Osaka. “Higashiyama” is home to major tourist attractions such as Kiyomizu Temple and Kodaiji Temple, while “Kitayama” is a sophisticated residential area. On the other hand, from the perspective of tourism, Nishiyama has the following attractions ・Rich nature ・Temples and shrines are scattered in the mountains. ・There are experience facilities that can be experienced only in Japan. ・You can visit the temples and shrines in a relatively slow pace compared to the main tourist attractions in Kyoto City.   Typical tourist spots are the old temples called “Kyoto Nishiyama Sanzan”: Yoshimine Temple, Komyo-ji, and Yanagidani Kannon. If you visit these temples and shrines at a leisurely pace, avoiding the crowds, you may be able to grasp firsthand the spirit and sensibility of the Japanese people, who have always respected nature and offered prayers to it. In addition, while Arashiyama’s “Sagano Bamboo Grove” is famous when it comes to sightseeing in Kyoto, there is a bamboo grove walking path in Nishiyama, Kyoto, that is longer and more rewarding than the bamboo grove path. You can cycle along that path, experience making sand patterns in a temple’s sand garden, and other contents that will make your trip special. You can even stop by on your way from Kyoto to Osaka, so there is no reason not to go!   However, some sights are far from the station and some experiences require advance reservations, so be sure to check in advance how to get there and how long it will take. Check this MAP The grounds of Yoshimine Temple, which boasts an area of 99,000 square meters, are a circular garden that takes advantage of the mountain terrain, and can be visited in about 30 to 40 minutes around the temple. Seasonal flowers such as weeping cherry trees over 300 years old, hydrangeas, autumn chrysanthemums, and autumn leaves are beautiful, and the view of Kyoto city from the temple grounds is spectacular.   Also not to be missed is the 37-meter-long, 600-year-old “Yuryu-no-matsu” pine tree. Designated as a national natural monument, it is so powerful that it looks like a living creature as it crawls across the ground.   The temple grounds also feature a hydrangea garden spanning 3,000 tsubo, where beautiful flowers bloom in late June.   ▼Check out this article!▼ 10 Best Places to see Hydrangea in Kansai The temple grounds are vast, covering an area of about 56,000 square meters. The 200-meter-long“Maple approach”is known as one of the best places in Kyoto to view the autumn leaves. More than 250 maple trees planted on both sides of the approach turn fiery red in season. The “Shikiki-Momiji” (autumn leaves spreading at your feet after they fall) that fill the approach after the maples have fallen are another impressive sight.   In addition to fall, the seasonal scenery, including cherry blossoms in spring, green maples in early summer, and snowy winter scenes seen several times a year, exudes a sense of wabi-sabi that is unique to a temple nestled in the mountains.   ▼Check out this article!▼ 〈2023〉Best 14 Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan (Kyoto, Osaka and More)! Known since ancient times as the God of Eyes, Yanagidani-Kannon has become famous in recent years as the birthplace of “Hana-Chouzu” (flower water fountain), in which the water fountains are decorated with flowers. The “Hana-Chouzu” is as beautiful as a work of art, and the flowers change with the seasons, delighting the eye throughout the year. It is also famous for its hydrangea blossoms, which attract many visitors, especially in June when they are at their best. The Kamishoin, which is open to the public in the fall, is also a highlight. The contrast of light and dark in the room, where the ceiling is illuminated and dyed red by the light, and the shadows of the maple trees are reflected in the room, is a beauty that cannot be described in words. In addition to sutra and Buddhist sutra copying, and the experience of making red seals with pressed flowers, there is also a therapy menu to help heal eyestrain.   ▼Check out this article!▼ What is Hana-chouzu, a hot topic in Japan? 6 Hana-chouzu spots found at temples and shrines in the Kansai region The Rakusai area is known for its bamboo shoots. Many people think of Arashiyama when they think of bamboo groves in Kyoto, but there is a hidden spot here that is different in scale and flavor from the bamboo groves of Arashiyama!   Kyoto City Rakusai Bamboo Park is developed to preserve the landscape of bamboo groves. In addition to a circular garden lined with rare bamboo trees, there is also a bamboo museum designed in the image of Japanese-style architecture, a tea ceremony room, and other facilities where visitors can learn how bamboo has been deeply involved in the lives and arts of the Japanese people and how it has become a part of Japanese culture. A further 5-minute bicycle ride away from there is the 1.8-kilometer-long “Bamboo Path”. The tunnel of bamboo groves stretching back toward the sky is a spectacular sight. The various designs of“bamboo fences”made of bundles of bamboo branches are also noteworthy! “Cycle Base Asahi Rakusaiguchi”, located near Hankyu Kyoto Line Rakusaiguchi station, offers guided cycling tours through bamboo path. Experience the exhilaration of riding a bicycle through bamboo path!   ▼Check out this article!▼ Rakusaiguchi, Kyoto-1 Day Trip｜Let’s Go Cycling in The Bamboo Grove! Nagaokatenmangu is dedicated to Michizane Sugawara,the god of learning. The shrine is associated with plum blossoms and is a well-known spot for viewing plum blossoms. The best time to view the ume blossoms is from mid-February each year. Ume blossoms are used as a motif on charms, red seals, and omikuji. Hachijo-ga-ike Pond, which is located in the precincts of the shrine, comes into bloom in spring, and the cherry blossoms along the pond bloom from late March, creating a magnificent scene. In late April, the “Kirishima azalea” blooms and the approach to the shrine turns crimson with its 2.5 meter height.   Located within walking distance from the nearest station, this spot is easy to incorporate into your Nishiyama sightseeing route. Shoboji Temple, isn’t known to Japanese people, is a beautiful temple with seasonal flowers and gardens. Here, visitors can experience the precious experience of “Samonhiki(draw patterns on the bedding sand with a rake-like instrument)”in the garden, which consists of 16 stones arranged to look like animals. Samon is a regular wavy pattern drawn in a karesansui (dry landscape garden). Before the start of the tour, visitors are specially invited to enter the stone garden, which is normally off-limits to the public, to experience “Samonhiki” under the guidance of a Buddhist priest. Visitors can deepen their understanding of the spirit of Zen by learning about the meaning of samon, the tools used, and preparing their minds for the experience. After the experience, visitors will tour the garden, receive an explanation of the borrowed scenery, and finally receive a red seal. Reservations are required for the experience. “The Premium Malts” is one of Japan’s most popular beer brands, widely enjoyed at home and in Japanese-style pubs. At the Suntory Natural Water Brewery in Kyoto, visitors can learn about Suntory’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality through a tour of the “The Premium Malts” production process. The tour is guided by an audio guide in English, Korean, and Chinese.   At the end of the tour, sample a freshly poured “The Premium Malts” to experience its delicious taste! Reservations are required for the tour, which takes about 70 minutes. “Yamazaki” is a world-famous whiskey brand that is the pride of Japan. “Yamazaki” is made here in Nishiyama, Kyoto. Visitors to the Yamazaki Whisky Museum (advance application required) can learn about the history of Suntory whiskey and the story behind the creation of the Yamazaki brand. In the tasting lounge (for a fee), visitors can taste rare whisky and other rare whiskies.   If you want to learn more about the in-depth world of whiskey, we recommend participating in the English guided tour that includes a tour of the production process, tasting, and souvenirs, or the English guided tour for whiskey enthusiasts! Both tours are charged and only those who apply in advance and are selected by lottery can participate, but they are sure to be a valuable experience.   *From the standpoint of proper drinking, Suntory does not accept reservations for tours that visit two factories on the same day. Please understand this. A 24-hour hot spring located near Bamboo path. It is recommended as a better spot than a stopover for cyclists! The spa is equipped with nine bathtubs, including an open-air bath, a jacuzzi, a highly concentrated carbonic acid spring, a sleeping bath, and a sauna, as well as a free relaxation room and a dining area, allowing you to refresh your body and mind. The hot water is characterized by its beautiful skin that becomes smooth and silky. For use of the hot springs, a day-use plan is also available for private rooms with open-air baths. Since lodging facilities are also available, visitors can stay overnight here and enjoy an early morning stroll through the tranquil bamboo path. For those on foot, the free shuttle bus from Hankyu Kyoto Line Rakusaiguchi station is convenient. Those with tattoos may bathe as long as they are large enough to be covered by two 10 cm x 10 cm tattoo stickers sold at the facility. “TauT Hankyu Rakusaiguchi”is a convenient place to recharge your energy with lunch or cafe in the Nishiyama area of Kyoto. “TauT Hankyu Rakusaiguchi”is a complex of restaurants and supermarkets that stretches about 1 km under the elevated railway tracks of Hankyu Rakusaiguchi station. The complex includes a ramen store “Kyoto Menya Takei” which attracts a long line of customers, a store specializing in pork miso soup and onigiri (rice balls), izakaya (Japanese-style pub), bakeries, cafes, and sweets stores, all of which you should try when you come to Japan.   Families can also enjoy the indoor playground “Gatagoto” available for children from 6 months to 12 years old at the Kyoto City Exchange Promotion and Community Development Plaza, also located under the elevated railway tracks. In December 2023, “OLU BURGER KYOTO RAKUSAIGUCHI”, a very popular hamburger specialty restaurant, will newly open! The juicy patties made from 100% Japanese black beef are hearty and filling. It will satisfy your hungry stomach. Kyoto Nishiyama is an upcoming tourist attraction in Kyoto. Check it out now and use it as a reference for your next travel plans.

6 Cultural Experiences in Kyoto: From Classic to Modern Ways to Discover Japanese Culture

Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to experience both time-honored traditions passed down through generations and modern interpretations of Japanese culture. In this guide, a range of immersive cultural experiences are introduced—from classic must-try activities to the latest attractions. Use this as inspiration to create unforgettable memories during your trip to Kyoto.   Index 1. Experience an authentic tea ceremony at “Kimono Tea Ceremony MAIKOYA Gion Kiyomizu” 2. Learn samurai and ninja history at “SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM KYOTO with EXPERIENCE” 3. Enjoy cultural experiences and shows in an Edo-period townscape at “UZUMASA KYOTO VILLAGE” 4. Make your own Japanese plum wine at ume experience shop “CHOYA” 5. Enjoy non-verbal Japanese drum show at “DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO” 6. One of Kyoto’s largest kimono and yukata rental shops, “Kyo ARUKI” Why not try a traditional tea ceremony—often considered formal and intimidating—in a relaxed setting right in the heart of Gion? Set inside a beautifully preserved machiya townhouse designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property, this experience offers a calm and authentic atmosphere. A knowledgeable host will guide you through the history of tea ceremony, its cultural significance, and basic etiquette. You’ll also watch a live demonstration of how to prepare matcha, then try making it yourself and enjoy it with traditional Japanese sweets. If sitting in seiza (on the floor) is difficult, chairs are available for your comfort. We recommend making a reservation in advance via the official website.   ■Languages Available: English This interactive museum is dedicated to two iconic symbols of Japanese history: samurai and ninja. After viewing an impressive display of authentic armor and real swords, you can enjoy taking photos in a truly immersive setting. The ninja experience lets you try hands-on activities such as shuriken (throwing star) throwing and blowgun training. Expert guides also provide engaging explanations of samurai philosophy, history, and the role of ninja in Japan—making it a fun and educational experience at the same time.   ■Languages Available: English Toei Kyoto Studio Park is an immersive theme park designed for adults, built around the concept of “stepping into Kyoto during the Edo period.” It reopened in spring 2026 following its first phase of renovation.   As soon as you enter, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautifully recreated Edo-era streetscapes. Throughout the park, you can enjoy interactive shows that bring a day in the Edo period to life, as well as hands-on experiences in traditional Japanese arts such as tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), Noh, and Kyogen theater.   There are also plenty of rental options, including kimono, traditional attire, and ninja costumes for children. Strolling through the park while sampling gourmet treats from well-known Kyoto eateries is another highly recommended way to enjoy the experience.   ■Languages Available: English / Chinese / Korean (signage & brochures) A specialty Japanese plum experience shop produced by the renowned umeshu maker CHOYA. The Kyoto Sanjo location, featured here, is designed for international visitors, offering a modern way to explore Japan’s traditional ume culture. One of the highlights is a hands-on workshop where you can create your own original ume syrup or umeshu by choosing from a variety of plums, sugars, and spirits (reservation via the official website 　is required). You can also enjoy non-alcoholic drinks made with syrup from fully ripened Nanko plums, ume chazuke (rice with plum), and even compare different types of umeshu.   ■Languages Available: English One of Japan’s leading taiko drum performance groups, DRUM TAO, has captivated audiences around the world. Their new permanent venue, DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO, is set to open in April 2026—just a 1-minute walk from Kyoto Station. Centered around powerful taiko drumming and incorporating traditional instruments such as shamisen, flute, and koto, the performance blends rock, dance, and projection mapping into a dynamic, non-verbal show. With no dialogue, it can be enjoyed by audiences of all nationalities. The theater features an intimate setting with 320 seats, allowing you to feel the performers’ energy up close. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind immersive taiko entertainment experience.   ■Languages Available: English Produced in-house, the shop offers high-quality kimono with a wide selection of over 1,000 designs, ranging from trendy antique styles and cute looks to elegant classic patterns. With professional dressers and hair stylists on-site, you can transform into a beautifully styled kimono look in a short time. A luggage storage service is also available, so you can explore Kyoto hands-free.   To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance via the official website. In addition to the Kyoto Shijo main store introduced here, the Kyoto Gion location—close to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine—is also highly recommended.   ■Languages Available: Depending on the store, English- and Chinese-speaking staff may be available. Kyoto continues to preserve its traditions while embracing new ideas. The six spots introduced here are all perfect for those looking to experience a different side of Kyoto beyond temples and shrines.   ▼Check this article▼ 6 Must-Try Experiences in Osaka: Dive into Local Life and Japanese Culture

10 Best Places to see Hydrangea in Kansai

Hydrangea is a seasonal flower which is native to Japan and there are more than 50 diverse varieties of this flower. In Japan, a rainy season called Tsuyu starts around mid-June, and actually many people hate this season because of this gloomy weather. However, at the same time, you can feel many Japanese attractions which can’t be found in any other season, and Hydrangea is one of them.   The best time to visit is generally during the rainy season, from early June to early July.   Hydrangea flowers change color depending on the acidity of the soil. We will introduce spots in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo where various kinds of hydrangeas such as blue, purple and pink bloom. <Table of Contents> 【Osaka, Suita】Expo ’70 Commemorative Park 【Osaka, Ikeda】Kyuan-ji Temple 【Kyoto, Ukyo-ku】Umenomiya-taisha Shrine 【Kyoto, Nishikyo-ku】Yoshimine Temple 【Kyoto, Nagaokakyo】Yanagitani-Kannon 【Hyogo, Kawanishi】Shounsan Raikouji Temple 【Hyogo, Kobe】Kobe Municipal Arboretum 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Cable Car 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE About 4,000 hydrangeas of about 30 varieties, including Western hydrangeas and Yaenoamacha, will be in full bloom at the Hydrangea Forest in the Nature Park of Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. Enjoy the fantastic space surrounded by diverse hydrangeas in red, blue, pink, etc.   Best time to view: Mid-June   ▼Check out this article▼ Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a great place to visit in Osaka! Highlights Explained! Kyuan-ji Temple has a path of hydrangeas so overgrown that they hide people. The gradation of hydrangeas on both sides of the path is a feast for the eyes. Floating hydrangeas on the pond are also popular as they look great on Instagram. The “Ajisai-Ukabe” usually held from mid to late June is even more impressive than the “Hana-Chozu”(flower water with handkerchiefs)!   For a limited time, they are offering “paper-cut goshuin” featuring hydrangea motifs.   Best time to view: Mid-June to early July   ▼Click here for information on recommended restaurants and popular museums in Ikeda▼ 3 restaurants where you can eat plant-based food near CUPNOODLES MUSEUM in Osaka Ikeda At Umenomiya Taisha Shrine, visitors can enjoy approximately 140 varieties of unique hydrangeas from the East Shrine Garden to the North Shrine Garden. You can also appreciate Hanashoubu, which blooms at the same time of the year. Best time to view: Mid-June Located in the precincts of Yoshimine Temple halfway up the mountain is the Hakusan Hydrangea Garden, which boasts an area of 3,000 tsubo (about 1,000 square meters). About 8,000 hydrangea plants, including gaku hydrangea, color the entire slope of the garden.   Best time to view: Late-June   ▼Check this article▼ Kyoto Nishiyama｜An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto! Visitors to Yanagitani Kannon can enjoy a cluster of about 5,000 hydrangea plants, including Japanese and Western hydrangeas. The hydrangea corridor in the precincts of the temple allows visitors to view the hydrangeas at their leisure without getting wet, even if it is raining. Yanagitani Kannon is famous for its “Hana-Chozu” (flower water with handkerchiefs). Many visitors come to the temple for Hana-Chozu, which is decorated with colorful seasonal flowers.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Late-June Shounzan Raikoji Temple is commonly called “Hydrangea Temple”. About 500 plants, including Western hydrangeas lovingly nurtured by the temple’s priests, bloom in large profusion. Take a stroll through the temple grounds and enjoy the different colors of the flowers.   Best time to view: Late-June The Kobe City Forest Botanical Garden is home to many rare hydrangeas, such as the fantastic Shichidanka flower and the clustered white Annabelle. The forest of approximately 50,000 hydrangeas of about 350 varieties is a sight to behold.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July At the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, located near the top of Mt. Rokko, 865 m above sea level, the “Shichidanka” hydrangea, said to be a phantom hydrangea, blooms. Characterized by its double-petaled flowers with overlapping petals, visitors can enjoy its pretty purple appearance. Also recommended is the “Hydrangea Garden,” where a wide variety of hydrangeas bloom, including the “Himehydrangea,” the city flower of Kobe City.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July The Rokko cable is a rare spot where you can enjoy hydrangeas while riding the cable car. The beautiful blue coloring of the hydrangea is known as “Rokko Blue”.   Starting from the hydrangea at the lower station of the cable car, more than 2,500 hydrangeas in total will be in full bloom from early to mid-July. The cable car has a lovely retro body, and from inside you can enjoy the view of the city of Kobe and the sea.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July Located on top of Mt. Rokko, where the temperature is about 5 degrees cooler than in the city, the hydrangeas are at their best about a month later than in the city, and more than 350 hydrangeas of more than 20 varieties can be enjoyed. The southern German-style building and the harmony with the surrounding nature provide an extraordinary experience and a peaceful space where visitors can appreciate the flowers in a more natural state.   Best time to view: Late-June to Late-July Flowering conditions may vary depending on the weather. Please check SNS for the latest blooming status.   ▼Check out this article▼ Enjoy “sound” in the great outdoors Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE Hydrangeas shine in the rain. Feel the change of the season by looking at the pretty blue, purple, and pink flowers.

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