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15 Famous Japanese Restaurants to go to when Visiting Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto

Update-Date: Jun 3, 2025

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

15 Famous Japanese Restaurants to go to when Visiting Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto

Kiyomizu Temple (Kiyomizu-dera) is famous as the temple built overlooking a cliff. Visitors flock to the temple to see the panoramic view of Kyoto area from its platform. This article focuses on the top 15 famous restaurants, mostly serving Japanese seasonal cuisine that you can go to when visiting Kiyomizu Temple.

1. Nanzenji Sando Kikusui

Kikusui, originating as a villa garden during Japan’s Meiji Era (1868–1912), blends tradition with modern evolution. The restaurant specializes in Japanese and Western cuisine, crafting seasonal, event-inspired course dishes by two skilled chefs. Featuring Kiyomizu ware and Kyoto lacquerware, Kikusui values seasonal performances and artistry. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals paired with the changing scenery of a beautiful Japanese garden. Perfect for special occasions, it offers a luxurious dining experience filled with surprises and heartfelt emotions.

Nanzenji Sando Kikusui

Open: Lunch 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 8:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 15,730 JPY / [Lunch] 7,260 JPY
Access: 7 minutes walk from Exit 1 of Keage Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line. Go straight north on Niomon Street. It is located on the right side.
Address: 31, Nanzenji Fukuchi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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2. Kyoto Kushidokoro Azumaya

Azumaya, situated a 7-minute walk from Sanjo Station in Zaimoku-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, offers delightful yakitori made from Kyoto chickens slaughtered in the morning and a secret sauce enhanced over 15 years. It serves kushiage skewers with a fine batter and three house-made sauces, plus horse sashimi directly shipped from Kumamoto. The restaurant boasts over 20 types of sake from Kyoto City breweries, cocktails, shochu highballs, and all-you-can-drink options. The bright interior, featuring slow jazz music, breaks away from the conventional yakitori restaurant image. It offers counter seating, table seating, sunken kotatsu seats, and private rooms, with banquet options on the second and third floors.

Kyoto Kushidokoro Azumaya

Open: [Monday-Friday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:30 pm) / [Saturday, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 4:00 pm - 2: 00 am (L.O. 1:30 am) / [Sunday, National Holidays] Dinner 4:00 pm - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,000 JPY
Access: From the exit, cross the Sanjo bridge and walk south on Kiyamachi-dori Street. It's on 2F of the building next to the left of Gyu-nabe Chiba restaurant.
Address: 2F, Toritane Bldg., 186, Zaimoku-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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3. Torisei Shijo Kiyamachi Branch

Torisei Shijo Kiyamachi Branch, in business for over 50 years, prides itself on delicious yakitori. Freshly grilled, flavored with a secret sauce used since its inception, the yakitori will surely bring a smile. Try the Oyadori Yaki with addictive spicy seasoning. Using fresh brand-name chicken from Kyushu, the dishes maximize ingredient quality. Local sake from Fushimi, Kyoto, shipped directly from the brewery, pairs perfectly with the chicken dishes. With an all-you-can-drink seasonal menu for banquets, and seating for a variety of needs, it's perfect for any occasion.

Torisei Shijo Kiyamachi Branch

Open: [Weekdays] 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O 10:30 pm) [Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] 11:30 am - 11:00 pm (L.O 10:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY
Access: 4 minutes walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Hankyu Main Line, 2 minutes walk from Kyoto-kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line
Address: Higashi-iru, Hitosujime, Shijo-agaru, Kawaramachi-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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4. Tagoto Main Branch

Tagoto, a 144-year-old Kyoto restaurant on Shijo Street, is a tranquil space serving Kyoto-style Kaiseki. Its cuisine emphasizes "seasonality", featuring unique Kyoto vegetables and seasonal seafood. The restaurant's aesthetic, including Arita-yaki and Shigaraki-yaki ceramics, hanging scrolls, and fresh flowers, mirrors seasonal shifts. The ever-changing courtyard enhances the atmosphere. Beyond the dishes' visual presentation, aroma, and taste, the ambiance reflects the changing seasons. Experience each season's charm while indulging in refined Kyoto cuisine.

Tagoto Main Branch

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, Sunday] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm / Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (L.O. 8:00 pm)
Closed: Wednesday,New year's day
Average price: [Dinner] 8,800 JPY / [Lunch] 4,180 JPY
Access: 1-minute walk from Kyoto-kawaramachi Station / From Exit6, head East for 10meters, and you will find the restaurant next to LAWSON
Address: 34, Otabi-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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5. IOTO - Kyoto Vegetable and Charcoal Grill -

3. IOTO - Kyoto Vegetable and Charcoal Grill -

Restaurant IOTO, located in resort hotel Fufu Kyoto, offers a range of dishes from light meals to authentic Kaiseki cuisine, using local vegetables and seasonal ingredients. The popular Fukue-zen Meal, served in a multi-layered box symbolizing "successive good fortune", includes various small dishes that showcase the chef's skill. The restaurant's Japanese-style interior offers counter seats overlooking a splendid garden and private rooms. Visitors can enjoy meals while viewing seasonal scenery from garden-facing tables. Ideal for unforgettable moments like dates, business entertainment, family celebrations, and anniversaries.

IOTO - Kyoto Vegetable and Charcoal Grill -

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (L.O. 1:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Access: About 7 minute's walk from Keage Station. It is located next to Murin-an. The main entrance is on the Lake Biwa Canal side
Address: 41, Kusagawa-cho, Nanzenji, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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6. Shinkiro

Made from a blend of soup stock, eggs, and water, the rapidly rolled omelette boasts a fluffy texture. Paired with a blend of Kyotamba and Omi rice, the taste enhances accompanying dishes. Ingredients, mainly from Kyoto, are always fresh, and vegetables are sourced locally. The open kitchen allows customers to witness the devoted preparation of their food. The "Large platter course" is perfect for sharing, offering ample food for a party. The second floor features a tatami area that can be partitioned into private rooms for 10 or more, ideal for parties.

Shinkiro

Open: [Monday-Wednesday, Friday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Lunch: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm / Dinner: 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Closed: Thursday, Irregular on Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: From Keihan Gojo station head north on Miyakawasuji. Located on the left hand side just before Matsubaradori.
Address: 6-361 Miyagawa Suji , Higashi Yama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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7. Feliz-malto

At Feliz-malto in Shijo-Karasuma, enjoy Japanese cuisine blending seasonal ingredients and miso from across Japan, paired with delicious drinks. Housed in a renovated machiya (traditional Kyoto townhouse) from the Taisho era, the restaurant offers an escape from everyday hustle. Private rooms with a tokonoma (alcove) are ideal for guests or meetings. The restaurant suggests reserving their special "Hatcho Miso Gateau Chocolat" as a souvenir. The "Hiei" course, featuring a steak of Kyoto's Japanese black beef and three miso dishes from appetizer to dessert, is recommended. A wide selection of Japanese sake and craft beer is also available.

Feliz-malto

Open: [Tuesday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY
Access: 03-minute walk from Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line. It is located up Takakura-dori Bukkoji.
Address: 377-1, Nishimae-cho, Bukkouji-agaru, Takakura-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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8. Yuba Higashiyamayuuzu

Proudly serving high-quality yuba dishes from Kyoto's Miyama region, Yuba Higashiyamayuuzu offers a taste of various flavors from seasonal tempura to kasane yuba. Guests can savor the naturally-raised Miyama-kyo jidori chicken and exquisite natural yuba with its bold flavor and outstanding sweetness. Thought is put into the menu, cooking, and ambiance to ensure guests leave with a smile. The popular lunch course features signature dishes like yubameshi and yubanabe, perfect for friendly gatherings or couples. Evenings promise authentic kaiseki in a relaxed atmosphere.

Yuba Higashiyamayuuzu

Open: [Fridays-Sundays] Lunch 11:00 pm - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm (L.O. 8:30 pm)
Closed: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: 7 minute walk from Gion Shijo station on the Keihan main line.
Address: 570-218 Gionmachiminamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Map
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9. Jukusei Sashimi to Umaisake Kyoto Hitoshio

8. Jukusei Sashimi to Umaisake Kyoto Hitoshio

This hideaway restaurant in Japan's old capital offers Kyoto Tsumoto style aged sashimi, local sake, and private dining. Rare in Kyoto, the restaurant's aged sashimi is house-made with fresh fish delivered directly from Maizuruuru and Ehime, ensuring flavorful and rich dishes. The menu also features a wide selection of delicacies and obanzai dishes made from Kyoto ingredients. The owner curates a range of sake from standard to rare. Guests can enjoy these offerings in a unique Kyoto-style Japanese atmosphere, making for a truly blissful experience.

Jukusei Sashimi to Umaisake Kyoto Hitoshio

Open: [Monday, Wednesday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:15 pm)
Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 8,000 JPY
Access: 8-minute walk from Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line. It is located east of Rokkaku-dori Tominokoji-dori Street.
Address: 1F, Sylvoupre Bldg., 88, Daikoku-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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10. Pontocho Kushiyoshi

Kushiyoshi provides a sophisticated Japanese modern space where guests can enjoy creative Kushiage (deep-fried skewers) made from carefully selected ingredients. Each skewer is meticulously deep-fried and served fresh. Dishes like "Angel Shrimp Kadaifu Rolls" and Shiso-flavored "Scallop with Caviar" showcase the ingredients. The menu, changing with the seasons, features seasonal ingredients for added enjoyment. Wines chosen to match Kushiage are recommended. The restaurant, with an open-kitchen counter on the first floor and a high-quality tatami room on the second, is suitable for everything from date nights to banquets.

Pontocho Kushiyoshi

Open: Dinner 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm) / [Friday-Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am -3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 7,000 JPY / [Lunch] 7,000 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 4 of Gion-shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line. Right next to Pontocho Park on Pontocho Street. The red curtain is a mark of the restaurant.
Address: 191-6, Shimokoriki-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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11. Wagyu Restaurant Bungo Gion

Bungo Gion, opened in 2023 in Kyoto's Shinbashi-dori, retains the Hanamachi district atmosphere, attracting local and international guests. It offers meals with local ingredients, including Kyoto Vegetables and "Oita Wagyu" beef. The "no self-grilling" approach allows guests to enjoy the meat's essence. With reservation, six full courses are available, including three Wagyu and three Yaki-Wagyu courses. A variety of drinks, including natural wines, complement the dishes. The traditional townhouse setting and optional tatami room enhance the cultural immersion.

Wagyu Restaurant Bungo Gion

Open: Dinner 5:00 pm - 10:30 pm / Reservations only. Reservations are available at 17:00, 18:00, and 19:00. Each one is 2 hours and 30 minutes. Some days may have reservations available for 20:00 (please ask the restaurant for details).
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 16,000 JPY
Access: 7-minute walk from Exit 8 of Gion-shijo Station on Keihan Railway. It is located along Shimbashi-dori Street.
Address: 56, Motoyoshi-cho, Yamatooji Higashi-iru, Shimbashi-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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12. Kyoto Gion Kawamura Ryori Hei (Gion-shijo)

14. Kyoto Gion Kawamura Ryori Hei (Gion-shijo)

This kaiseki restaurant is located inside a renovated kominka (Japanese traditional house), and is filled with everything Kyoto! The menu consists solely of reasonably-priced course cuisine, with lunch courses of 8 dishes costing 2,950 JPY. There are 6 courses available in the evening, including 5 courses ranging from 6 items for 4,000 JPY to 11 items for 8,000 JPY, and another course, which comes with all-you-can-drink for 10,000 JPY. The menu changes every month to ensure the usage of top quality, seasonal ingredients. A dessert menu is also available, consisting of an assortment of seasonal Japanese and Western confectionary served with coffee.

Kyoto Gion Kawamura Ryori Hei

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,500 JPY
Access: 6-minute walk from Keihan main Line [Gion-Shijo Station] No.7 exit / 9-minute walk from Hankyu Kyoto Line [Kawaramachi Station] 1-A exit
Address: 347-96 Gionmachi-kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto city, Kyoto Map
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13. Gion Kankanderi Rei

Gion Kankanderi Rei, nestled quietly in the elegant streets of Gion, Kyoto, offers a unique fusion of Japanese, Teppanyaki, and Korean cuisine. The chef, with 30 years of experience, uses local ingredients like Kyoto pork, Tamba chicken, Kyoto duck, and vegetables, all prepared with a nutritionist's care. The restaurant provides a luxurious dining experience in a unique space with counter, table, tatami room, and private seating. The restaurant overlooks the picturesque Tatsumi Bridge over Gion Shirakawa River, a popular spot retaining the Hanamachi atmosphere. Enjoy the luxury and hospitality of Gion Kankanderi Rei against the backdrop of beautiful Gion, Kyoto.

Gion Kankanderi Rei

Open: [Monday-Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / [Monday-Saturday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:00 pm) / [Sunday, National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: 11-minute walk from Exit 1A of Kyoto-kawaramachi Station on Hankyu Kyoto Main Line / 6-minute walk form Exit 9 of Gion-shijo Station on Keihan Main Lin
Address: 1-2F, Nikoto Bldg., 2-391, Hashimoto-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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14. Tominokoji Tempura Matsui

Tominokoji Tempura Matsui offers unique courses using carefully selected daily ingredients. Ideal for entertaining guests or for casual use, the restaurant serves authentic Kyoto-style tempura at affordable prices, featuring ingredients like live prawns, local vegetables, and fresh fish. The interior boasts a relaxing space with a sizeable counter, where guests can observe the chef's artisanal skills. The restaurant also offers popular seasonal Tendon bowls and casual lunch courses. Whether treating yourself or dining with a loved one, Tempura Matsui adds a touch of luxury to everyday life.

Tominokoji Tempura Matsui

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm) / Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 8,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: From Karasuma Oike Station, take Exit 5 and head east on Sanjo Street, then turn right at Tominokoji Street, and it's a one-minute walk.
Address: 1F, Tominokoji Mansion, 540, Asakura-cho, Sanjo-sagaru, Tominokoji, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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15. Doikatsuman Gion Yasaka Branch

Doikatsuman Gion Yasaka Branch, located near Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto, is renowned for its thick, flavorful eels. The restaurant takes great care in selecting fat farm-raised eels from Isshiki (Mikawa Bay), Aichi Prefecture. These eels are expertly skewered and charcoal-grilled in the Kansai style, ensuring a crispy exterior and soft interior. Their "Unaju" delights with its aroma and sight of the giant eel. You can choose the grade based on your preference. The "Luxurious Eel Box" and "Hitsumabushi" are recommended for special occasions. A la carte dishes that pair well with alcohol are also popular. Enjoy delectable cuisine and warm hospitality at this establishment.

Doikatsuman Gion Yasaka Branch

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm / Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,500 JPY
Access: 10 minutes walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line
Address: 1F, San San Yasaka, 492-3, Kiyoicho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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Please make good use of this article when looking for something good to eat while sightseeing around Kiyomizu Temple!

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.

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