About this site

Find Restaurant

Online Reservation

Show instant booking only

Language

15 Best Restaurants to Visit Near Kyoto’s Kiyomizu Temple

Update-Date: Mar 7, 2025

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

15 Best Restaurants to Visit Near Kyoto’s Kiyomizu Temple

Kiyomizu Temple, also known as Kiyomizu-dera, is one of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing spots, famous for its wooden stage overlooking the city. This article introduces 15 recommended restaurants near Kiyomizu Temple, including places serving seasonal Japanese cuisine, French cuisine, and other refined dining experiences. Perfect for lunch or dinner during a day of sightseeing in the Higashiyama area.

1. Gion Nishikawa

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

Enjoy a relaxing meal featuring fresh sashimi, carefully selected seafood, Kyoto vegetables, and rice from Mount Ibuki. The restaurant uses local ingredients such as Akashi sea bream and Nushima conger eel, along with premium seafood from across Japan, including tilefish, black abalone, clams, and rosy sea bass. Seasonal sea urchin from Rishiri and Yura is also served. Vegetables are sourced from Ohara markets and trusted Kyoto farms. The rice is polished in-house and cooked in an earthenware pot, creating a soft, fluffy, and naturally sweet finish.

Gion Nishikawa

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Lunch: 12:00 - 15:00 *Please come at 12:00 / Dinner: 18:00 - 20:00 (Last order: 20:00) *Food served at customers' pace.
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 33,000 JPY / [Lunch] 12,650 JPY
Access: A seven minute walk from Kyoto City Bus Higashiyama-Yasui bus stop/ From Higashioji-dori, take Kodaiji-minamimon-dori, turn left on Shimogawara-dori and keep going for 50 meters. It is located on a back alley.
Address: 473 Shimogawaracho Shimogawaradori Yasakatoriimae Sagaru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
More Details

2. Gion Okumura

Gion Okumura, located on Hanamikoji Street in Kyoto’s Gion district, is known as a pioneer of French Kaiseki, blending Kyoto kaiseki traditions with French cuisine. With more than 40 years of history, the restaurant continues to be loved by local regulars and travelers alike. Led by Chef Kamitsuji, the kitchen preserves the Okumura style while adding new appeal through dishes featuring Kyoto vegetables. Guests can enjoy omakase French Kaiseki for lunch or dinner, along with wine pairings, in elegant private rooms inside a renovated machiya townhouse.

Gion Okumura

Open: [Wednesday - Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm (L.O. 1:00 pm) / Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 7:30 pm)
Closed: Monday, Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 20,000 JPY / [Lunch] 12,000 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 6 of Gion-shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line
Address: 570-6, Gionmachi-Minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map

More Details Reservation

3. Benoit Kyoto

Benoit Kyoto offers refined French bistro cuisine in the historic city of Kyoto, pairing seasonal ingredients with a modern, sophisticated approach. Inside, antique dining room furniture imported from France and striking red sofas create the feeling of a Parisian bistro. Through the large windows, guests can admire Yasaka Pagoda, one of Kyoto’s iconic sights. With an open atmosphere during the day and a chic, mature mood at night, the restaurant is ideal for dates, girls’ gatherings, anniversaries, and business entertainment.

Benoit Kyoto

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:30 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm) / Afternoon Tea 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm (L.O. 3:30 pm) *Afternoon Tea Course Only / Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 8:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Access: 15-minute drive from Kyoto Station, 5-minute walk from Kiyomizu-michi bus stop
Address: Inside The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu, 2-204-2, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
More Details Reservation

4. 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
More Details Reservation

5. Yuba Higashiyamayuuzu

Enjoy high-quality yuba dishes made with carefully selected soybeans, mainly from Kyoto’s Miyama region. The restaurant serves a variety of yuba specialties, including tempura made with seasonal ingredients and dried yuba batter, as well as kasane yuba for comparing flavors with Tanba black bean yuba. Natural yuba, made only with Kyoto soybeans and water, offers rich bean flavor and gentle sweetness. Lunch features popular courses with signature dishes such as yuba rice and yuba hotpot, while dinner offers 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

More Details Reservation

6. 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
More Details Reservation

7. 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
More Details Reservation

8. 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
More Details Reservation

9. 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
More Details Reservation

10. 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
More Details Reservation

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
More Details Reservation

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
More Details Reservation

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
More Details Reservation

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
More Details

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
More Details Reservation

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.

Thank you for reading our article.

Our goal is to take your culinary journey to the next level by helping you find the best restaurant. With SAVOR JAPAN, you can search and make reservations for