15 Unmissable Restaurant and Izakaya Around Gion, Kyoto Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Reservation Guide-

Update-date: Dec 20 2024

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

15 Unmissable Restaurant and Izakaya Around Gion, Kyoto

Renowned as the most evocative townscape of the ancient capital, Kyoto, Gion is a favorite spot for tourists. This article introduces the best 15 restaurants in the area.

See full listings of Izakaya restaurants found in and around Kyoto.

1. Gion Katana

Gion Katana blends Japanese tradition with modern style, located a 3-minute walk from Gion-shijo Station. It specializes in charcoal-grilled dishes made with premium ingredients like fresh chicken, shrimp, and Japanese Black Beef. The sommelier-curated wine list, along with champagne and sake, enhances the dining experience. Perfect for business entertainment, sightseeing meals, or special anniversaries, Gion Katana offers an elegant and versatile setting for any occasion.

Gion Katana

Open: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: -
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY
Access: 3-minute walk from Keihan Main Line Gion-shijo Station / 298m from Gion-shijo Station
Address: 69-2, Motoyoshi-cho, Higashi-iru, Yamato-oji, Shimbashi-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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2. Yakiniku Horumon Daigoro

Yakiniku Horumon Daigoro offers fresh horumon and premium lean meat. The "Assorted Three Kinds of Horumon with Salt," featuring Japanese Black hormone, is a must-try, boasting a light, odorless flavor. Located in Gion, it's ideal for business, dates, family outings, or gatherings. The restaurant has counter and table seating on the first floor and private rooms upstairs. With a top-notch ducting system to prevent lingering odors, it provides a relaxed and comfortable dining experience.

Yakiniku Horumon Daigoro

Open: [Monday-Saturday, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 3:00 am (L.O. 2:00 am)
Closed: Sunday, National Holidays
Average price: [Dinner] 7,000 JPY
Access: 3-minute walk from Exit No. 7 of Gion-shijo Station. Go east on City Road 186, turn left onto Kiridoshi Street, and the restaurant is on the left.
Address: 1F, Kiridoshi OKI Bldg., 254-9, Gionmachi-kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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3. Gion Shizuka

Gion Shizuka, nestled on a serene street in Kyoto's Gion, offers a curated selection of rare Japanese sake from across the country. Complementing the sake are exquisite seasonal dishes like "Seasonal Bo-zushi" and "Shizuka's Oden," crafted by a Michelin-starred chef using Kyoto's finest ingredients. The relaxed, Japanese-inspired interior is perfect for dining at the counter while observing the chefs in action. With local sake and Japanese whiskey available during bar time, it's ideal for casual meals or special occasions.

Gion Shizuka

Open: [Tuesday - Sunday] Dinner 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Simultaneous start at 6:00 pm) Sake Pairing Kurando Course 22,000 JPY, Sake Pairing Toji Course 26,400 JPY *Bar Time is also available. Aperitif Bar Time 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm (L.O. 5:30 pm), Bar Time 9:00 pm - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:30 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 22,000 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station on Keihan Main Line. Go left onto Kiridoshi Road before Hanamikoji Street.
Address: 371-2, Kiyomoto-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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4. Gion Kitagawa Hanbee

Gion Kitagawa Hanbee, owned by a tea wholesaler established in 1861, celebrates Japanese tea culture. The café offers drinks and sweets crafted from premium domestic tea leaves, including the signature "Cha-yomi," a pairing of vibrant teas and tea-inspired sweets. With a serene blend of Japanese and modern aesthetics, it's perfect for gatherings, dates, or hosting guests from Kyoto or abroad. Experience Japan's refined tea culture in this unique and inviting setting.

Gion Kitagawa Hanbee

Open: [Weekdays] 11:00 am - 6:00 pm, [Saturday, Sunday] 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 2,500 JPY
Access: 6-minute walk from Exit 6 of Gion-shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line
Address: 570-188, Gion-machi Minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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5. Restaurant DA CIRO

Restaurant DA CIRO, a cozy hideaway with just nine counter seats, offers freestyle Italian cuisine crafted by its owner-chef. Blending diverse ingredients and techniques, the course-only menu for lunch and dinner features innovative dishes that delight the senses. The restaurant also excels in pairing food with wine, collaborating with "Wine Grocery" for curated selections and offering non-alcoholic options. With its open kitchen's lively ambiance, it's perfect for sharing a memorable dining experience with loved ones.

Restaurant DA CIRO

Open: [Tuesday - Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm (12:00 pm start) *Reservation Only. / [Tuesday - Saturday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm (6:00 pm or 7:00 pm start) *Reservation Only. *Excessive allergy requests are not able to be accommodated.
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 7,000 JPY
Access: 267-m from Gion-shijo Station
Address: 5F, Izawa Bldg., 266, Kitagawa, Gion-machi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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6. Miyagawacho Tensho

Miyagawacho Tensho offers seasonal tempura kaiseki crafted by a chef with years of experience at a renowned Kyoto ryokan. With just ten seats and a hinoki cypress counter, guests can enjoy freshly fried tempura served at its peak timing. The relaxed atmosphere suits adult dates, business meetings, or family celebrations. Pair your meal with premium beer, Japanese whiskey highballs, wine, or champagne. Experience a blissful dining moment in this intimate and elegant setting.

Miyagawacho Tensho

Open: [Monday-Saturday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 24,200 JPY
Access: 6-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Electric Railway Keihan Main Line. It is located on the corner straight ahead from the back gate of Ebisu Shrine.
Address: 4-300-5, Miyagawa-suji, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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7. Hot Sand Senmonten OHANABATAKE Gion Branch

OHANABATAKE began as a kitchen car selling "beef sandwiches," gaining popularity and evolving into a fast-food chain across Japan. Known for its hearty hot sandwiches packed with savory beef, fresh hydroponic vegetables, and toasted bread, the signature sauce adds an unforgettable flavor. The Gion branch features exclusive items like the "Yakisoba Beef Sand." Pair your meal with refreshing fruit, yogurt, and soda drinks. Experience a taste so good you'll keep coming back for more.

Hot Sand Senmonten OHANABATAKE Gion Branch

Open: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 1,000 JPY
Access: 1-minute walk from Yasaka Shrine (Next to Yoshimoto Gion Kagetsu)
Address: 1F East, Gion Kaikan, 323, Giommachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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8. GION Yamaneko

GION Yamaneko is a dining bar where you can enjoy seven types of Kyoto craft beers and over 50 kinds of Japanese sake, even during the day—a rarity in Gion. The space blends traditional Kyoto charm with modern elements like chochin lanterns and dried flowers. Located in a 150-year-old Kyomachiya townhouse, it offers counter and table seating on the ground floor (23 seats) and cozy sofa seating upstairs (up to 10). The recommended sake comparison set, curated by three sommeliers, and original blend coffee make it ideal for casual drinks or café visits.

GION Yamaneko

Open: 1:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O.10:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 3,000 JPY
Access: 502m from Gion-shijo Station
Address: 321-1, Kitagawa, Gion-machi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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9. Gion Vitra

Gion Vitra offers Kyoto French cuisine blending French techniques with Japanese influences, overlooking the Kamo River and Ponto-cho. The concept of "learning from the past" inspires dishes that highlight seasonal and local ingredients, creating a sensory experience enhanced by exquisite tableware, aromas, and sounds. Signature dishes include the "Vitra Rice," cooked in a clay pot with seasonal flavors, served to conclude the meal. Pair your meal with carefully selected wines or sake from around the world for a truly special dining experience.

Gion Vitra

Open: Dinner 6:00 pm - 11:30 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 30,000 JPY
Access: About 3-minute walk from Gion-shijo Station on Keihan Electric Railway Keihan Main Line
Address: 2F, 4-4, Kawabata 4-jyo agaru Benzaiten-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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10. Wagyu Restaurant Bungo Gion

Bungo Gion, opened in 2023 on Kyoto's historic Shinbashi-dori, offers premium courses featuring local ingredients like Kyoto Vegetables and exquisite "Oita Wagyu" beef. Guests enjoy a "no grilling by yourself" service where staff expertly prepare the meat tableside, showcasing its true flavors. Six reservation-only courses include Wagyu and Yaki-Wagyu options. The traditional townhouse ambiance features a tatami room for an added fee, enhancing the experience. Pair your meal with natural wines for a blissful culinary journey in Kyoto's timeless charm.

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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11. Gion Okumura

Gion Okumura, located on Hanamikoji Street in Kyoto's Gion district, pioneered "French Kaiseki," blending Kyoto Kaiseki with French cuisine. With over 40 years of history, the restaurant has been beloved by both locals and visitors. Led by Chef Kamitsuji, the restaurant continues to innovate with Kyoto vegetables while staying true to its signature style of combining Japanese and Western techniques. Guests can enjoy "Omakase French Kaiseki" with wine pairings in private dining rooms within a beautifully renovated machiya, offering an elegant, blissful experience.

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
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12. Gion Kankanderi Rei

Gion Kankanderi Rei, nestled in the elegant streets of Gion, Kyoto, offers a unique fusion of Japanese, teppanyaki, and Korean cuisine. With 30 years of experience, the chef uses Kyoto's finest ingredients, including Kyoto pork, Tamba chicken, Kyoto duck, and seasonal fish. The restaurant provides an exquisite dining experience with counter, table, zashiki, and private rooms. Located near Tatsumi Bridge, it offers beautiful views of the Hanamachi district. Enjoy luxurious meals and exceptional hospitality in the heart of Gion.

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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13. Sushi Matsumoto

Sushi Matsumoto, located in the elegant streets of Gion, Kyoto, showcases the spirit of Edomae sushi. Owner Daisuke Matsumoto, who honed his skills at [Sushi Shimizu] in Shimbashi, Tokyo, selected Gion for its unique atmosphere. Known as one of Kyoto's top sushi destinations, the restaurant offers two signature courses: [Omakase Nigiri (chef's choice)] and [Tsumami and Nigiri (small dishes and sushi)]. Each dish is crafted with high-quality seafood sourced directly from Tsukiji and Akashi fish markets, bringing out the best of seasonal ingredients with expert techniques.

Sushi Matsumoto

Open: Lunch (Monday, Thursday - Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays) 12:00 am - 2:00 pm (L.O. 1:30 pm) / Dinner 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (L.O. 8:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 20,000 JPY / [Lunch] 9,000 JPY
Access: 5 minutes walk from Gionshijo Station on Keihan Main Line
Address: 570-123, Gionmachi-Minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Map
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14. Nakamura

15 Unmissable Izakaya Around Gion, Kyoto

Head here to taste ingredients carefully selected from across the country, grilled simply over charcoal. The only menu item is the [Omakase Course (7,000 JPY)], which is filled with seasonal flavors. For example, there's the [Chicken Breast Meat Appetizer 3-Kind Assortment] - accompanied by seasonal vegetables, you can taste the difference in the flavor of chicken breast when cooked at different temperatures with this dish. There's also the [Grilled Vegetables Assortment], where Italian and Japanese vegetables are seasoned as little as possible to maintain their original flavor. There are also over 20 types of sake. If you prefer wine, ask for a glass of that day's recommended wine.

Nakamura

Open: [Sunday,Tuesday - Saturday] 18:00 - 22:00 (last order 20:00)
Closed: Monday
Access: 5 minutes walk from Gion Shijo Station on the Keihin Main Line
Address: 2F Gion Nawate White Building, 3-13 Benzaiten-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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15. Niku dokoro Gion Ryuan

In this restaurant’s private rooms, you can eat yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) and shabu-shabu (sliced meat parboiled with vegetables) made with top-quality meat, carefully selected by the owner, who has over 50 years of experience as a butcher. They source the best Tamura beef and Kobe beef (A5-ranked and grade no.11 or higher), which are known to be the highest grade Wagyu (a type of high-quality beef). You absolutely must try the [Ryuan Chateaubriand] - a super tender premium fillet with a fine texture and deep flavor - and the [Ryuan Loin] that will enchant you with its luxurious umami and aroma. You can also go for their shabu-shabu course, which includes Wagyu beef, Kyo-yasai, and mushrooms served with coarsely grated daikon (radish) and ponzu (citrus-seasoned soy sauce).

Niku dokoro Gion Ryuan

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Closed: Thursday
Average price: 7,000 JPY
Address: 169, Tokiwa-cho, Kawabata-dori Shijo-agaru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto (Map)
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Now you know where to stop by for a drink and delicious food after exploring Gion!

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.