Kyoto Izakaya Hopping: Pontocho & Gion Foodie Tour

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Izakaya Hopping: Pontocho & Gion Foodie Tour

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About this experience

Experience the real taste of Kyoto! On this walking tour, we explore the vibrant backstreets of Kiyamachi and Pontocho to find the best local spots. Whether you are a foodie or just love a good drink, our local guides will take you to their favorite Izakayas that you might miss on your own.

Tour Highlights:

・Izakaya Hopping: Visit 3 different local pubs/restaurants, each with its own story.

・Local Connection: Chat with your Japanese guide and learn about the city's lifestyle.

・Customizable: If you have dietary preferences or requests, feel free to message us in advance!

Payment (Fair & Simple): We want you to enjoy the best food at the most reasonable cost.

・Direct Payment: Food and drinks are separate—no hidden tour commissions.

Available options

Dinner Tour

Dinner Tour: We visit the izakayas that local people actually go to.

Lunch Tour

Lunch Tour: We’ll visit casual standing bars and izakayas that are open from lunchtime.

What's included

Visits to approximately three izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) or bars

3 hour tour with a local guide

Detailed itinerary

Kiyamachi Street is a popular dining and drinking district in Kyoto, known for its charming and atmospheric izakayas (Japanese-style pubs). These cozy establishments offer a wide range of delicious Japanese cuisine, including favorites like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and a selection of premium sake.

During our tour, we'll visit one or two izakayas in Kiyamachi that best suit your preferences. Whether you're in the mood for a lively and energetic atmosphere or a more intimate and relaxed setting, our knowledgeable guide will choose the perfect spots for you.

You'll have the opportunity to spend about an hour at each izakaya, savoring a variety of tasty dishes and drinks. Immerse yourself in the local flavors and enjoy the warm hospitality of the friendly staff. This is a fantastic chance to experience an authentic slice of Kyoto's vibrant food and drink culture in one of the city's most beloved nightlife districts.

Stop 2

Pontocho is a narrow, atmospheric alley running parallel to the Kamo River, famous for its concentration of traditional Japanese restaurants. This charming area is the perfect place to experience some of Japan's most iconic dishes, such as sushi and sukiyaki (a hot pot dish with thinly sliced beef, vegetables, and tofu).

Our guide will carefully select restaurants in Pontocho based on your preferences, ensuring that you enjoy a dining experience tailored to your tastes. Whether you're a fan of fresh, delicate sushi or the rich, savory flavors of sukiyaki, you'll find the perfect meal in this picturesque alley.

Together with the izakayas visited in Kiyamachi, we'll explore a total of three establishments during the tour. To conclude this memorable evening, we'll visit a restaurant renowned for its delectable desserts, providing a sweet finish to your culinary adventure through Kyoto's most enchanting dining districts.

What's not included

Food expenses (approximately 5,000 yen per person for a total of three places.)

Beverage expenses (approximately 3,000 yen per person for a total of three places.)

Participants are responsible for the guide's drink charge (one drink per venue).

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

11 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Alcohol will not be served to participants under 20

Inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance

Meeting point

The meeting point is Shijo Kiyamachi. A guide holding a sign that says "Otatrip Guide" will be waiting between McDonald's and the Japanese restaurant Kikunoi Roan, located a little south along Kiyamachi Street. Since this is a group tour, please ensure not to be late.

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto

By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara

40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji

20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune

25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.