Kyoto Nightlife Bar Hopping Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Kyoto's vibrant nightlife scene
- Visit three unique local bars
- Taste traditional Japanese drinks and snacks
- Learn about Kyoto's rich drinking culture
- Enjoy a fun and social evening with fellow travelers
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Kyoto's vibrant nightlife
- Visits to three unique local bars
- Tasting of traditional Japanese drinks and snacks
- Transportation to and from the meeting point
Itinerary
We will go to 2 local izakaya in “Pontocho”. “Pontocho” is one of Kyoto’s most famous traditional dining streets, known for its narrow alley, wooden buildings, and charming old atmosphere. You can feel Kyoto’s historic and romantic vibe while enjoying local food, Japanese sake, and a unique night out.
Pass by: Kamogawa river runs through the heart of Kyoto. “Kamogawa” is loved by locals as a place to relax, enjoy the scenery, and feel the changing seasons. You can experience a peaceful local atmosphere while seeing a more everyday and charming side of Kyoto.
We will walk through “Gion”, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district and visit a hidden bar. “Gion” is known for its beautiful traditional streets, old teahouses, and elegant Kyoto atmosphere. You can enjoy local culture, historic scenery, and Kyoto's unique bar scens.
Meeting point
Start Location
Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni, Kawabatachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; proficiency in the language is recommended.
- The meeting point is centrally located in Kyoto; plan your transportation accordingly.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for the season.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves walking between venues.
- Bring a valid ID if you plan to purchase alcoholic beverages.
- Be prepared to engage with fellow travelers and local patrons in a social setting.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- The itinerary for this tour includes some locations that are not accessible by a wheelchair or stroller.
- Anyone over 20 years old can join this tour.
Traveler reviews
We enjoyed our experience
Our guide Mari was very personable, shared interesting culture, and took lots of photos. We had a great time!
Kumi is so fun. We ended...
Kumi is so fun. We ended up being the only people in the tour at the timeslot and day but she made sure we had fun and had good insight on history and Kyoto. The three izakaya/bars were are all great especially the last one. Thanks again to Kumi, you are awesome.
A great night bar hopping the heritage streets of Kyoto
Had a great time on our night bar-hopping tour with J through Gion and Pontocho. The three izakayas selected for the tour gave a good overview of the diversity of establishments that come under that category, from a standing bar in Pontocho who do a fabulous strawberry chuhai and snack plates to stepping away from the crowds at the end of the night and relaxing on cushion seats and low tables on a peaceful balcony in Gion. J is a great host, a Kyoto local who speaks perfect English and shares a lot of information that is well matched to the group's interests and existing knowledge rather than tightly following a script. He clearly knows the Kyoto leisure districts, drinking culture and food well and loves his city, and that comes through in this fun tour. The drinks allocation is generous, comfortably more than we got through in a night, and we really enjoyed the food. Favourites for us were the fermented firefly squid, in season in May, which paired beautifully with drinks, and the beef dish at the last izakaya, which was delicious. Equally, if your preference is for the more familiar karaage and tempura-style dishes, that is catered for too.
Friendly, knowledgeable guide.
We went to places that we never would’ve found on our own.
“J” for Prime Minister!!
Our guide was the wonderful “J”, he put up with our many confusing questions about the Japanese culture and set us straight ! His guidance and humour made for a fantastic evening . Highly recommend from Australia !!