Bustling with tourists, Kyoto Station is the gateway to Kyoto City, and boasts of several fantastic restaurants. This article introduces 15 of the top Japanese restaurants around the Kyoto Station area, as chosen by the popular Japanese gourmet website, Hitosara.
1. Ginnan
Ginnan serves a wide variety of original Japanese cuisine made from fresh local ingredients, such as fresh fish, shellfish, yuba (tofu skin), tofu, and Kyo-Yasai (specialty vegetables from Kyoto). There are a variety of table options at this restaurant, which make it ideal for every situation. For example, the black color-schemed 1F has counter seats that are ideal for couples or solo diners. The white color-schemed 2F has table seats, which are ideal for larger groups and those visiting with close friends. Recommended items on the menu include the [Kyoto-style Teriyaki Pizza with Soy Milk Sauce] and [Ginnan Course] (4,000 JPY) with its [Kumiage Yuba] (tofu skin skimmed from hot soy milk).
Ginnan
Open:
[Weekdays, Saturday, Day before National Holidays] 5:30 pm – 00:00 am (L.O. 11:00 pm)Closed:
MondayAverage price:
[Dinner] 3,000 JPYAccess:
From the central exit of JR Kyoto station walk to Karasuma-dori. Cross the Karasuma-Shichijo intersection and continue west for 20M.Address:
114-2 Nakai-cho, Kita-gawa, Shichi-jo Nishi Hairu, Karasuma-dori, , Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto (
Map)
More Details Reservation 2. Kushinobo Kyoto Station Branch
Kushinobo, an esteemed restaurant established in 1950, has carved a niche for itself in the realm of deep-fried kushiyaki dishes. With a meticulous approach, carefully selected ingredients are expertly fried in a special batter, coated with crisp bread crumbs, and presented in their golden-brown glory. While these deep-fried delicacies may bear a resemblance, each morsel holds a world of fresh and creative flavors waiting to be discovered. Among the noteworthy recommendations is the Chef's Choice of Assorted Kushiyaki, a delightful assortment where the chef dips an array of meats, seafood, and vegetables in the batter before precisely timing their deep-frying for optimal taste. Embark on a culinary adventure at Kushinobo and savor the artistry of their deep-fried kushiyaki creations.
Kushinobo Kyoto Station Branch
Open:
11:00 am - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)Closed:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,250 JPYAccess:
3 minutes walk from JR Kyoto station. Located in the 11F of Kyoto Station Building. Address:
11F, Kyoto Station Building The CUBE, 657 Higashi-shiokoji-cho, Shiokoji-kudaru, Karasuma-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 3. KYOTO TOWER SANDO BAR
KYOTO TOWER SANDO BAR offers a wide variety of alcohols, ranging from rare sake to popular brands. They highly recommend their exquisite local sake from all over Kyoto and Kyoto's craft beer. They also serve an original cocktail made with Amazake, a sweet Japanese drink made from fermented rice. For sake lovers, a [Sake and Beer Tasting Set] is available. Customers can bring their own food from other shops in Kyoto Tower to enjoy with the drinks. The establishment also hosts irregular events with sake breweries to promote Kyoto's charm through their drinks and these events.
KYOTO TOWER SANDO BAR
Open:
11:00 am - 11:00 pmClosed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 900 JPYAccess:
2 minutes walk from the central exit of JR Kyoto Station, in Kyoto TowerAddress:
721-1, Higashishio-Koji Cho, Karasuma Dori Shichijo Sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 4. Wagyu Junkie
Wagyu Junkie, with manager Mr. Matsushita, offers quality yakiniku in a casual setting. The "Silver Saint" set menu, with signature dishes "Shivering Loin" and Kalbi, offers substantial portions at reasonable prices. The restaurant also provides Kyoto's "Arai-dare sauce" for a refreshing taste. The interior exudes a chic, tranquil atmosphere with private rooms and sofa seats available on the second floor. An all-you-can-drink option is included in the course, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of drinks with their meal.
Wagyu Junkie
Open:
[Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)Closed:
ThursdayAverage price:
[Dinner] 4,000 JPYAccess:
Exit Toji Station and go east 100m, then go north 200m from the intersection, then go east 50m on the road before reaching Toji RoadAddress:
18-27, Higashi-Kujo Nakadonda-cho, Minami-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 5. Yakiniku/Maki-ryori Karasuma Rock
Karasuma Rock, a luxurious restaurant, offers exquisite yakiniku of Japanese black beef and Kyoto Miyama chicken, prepared over firewood. The serene first-floor seats, ideal for dates and small dinner parties, provide a fire view. The spacious second-floor seats accommodate parties of 30 or more. A wide drink range, including selected Japanese sake, shochu, rare domestic whiskey, wine, fruit sours, and fruit wine, complements the meal. Various courses, including a 120-minute all-you-can-drink option, are available. Just two minutes from Gojo Station, the retro building with a white noren curtain and firewood piles stands on Karasuma Dori.
Yakiniku/Maki-ryori Karasuma Rock
Open:
[Monday, Tuesday, Thursday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)Closed:
WednesdayAverage price:
[Dinner] 5,000 JPYAccess:
2-minute walk from Exit 5 of Gojo Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway. 10-minute walk from Exit 2 of JR Kyoto Station. Facing Karasuma-dori Street.Address:
191, Kitamachi, Rokujo-sagaru, Karasuma-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 6. Nihon Ryouri YUEN
YUEN offers exceptional hospitality in an elegant, meticulously detailed space, with just one room available for reservation. Once booked, guests have exclusive use of the restaurant and indulge in a course meal prepared by a private chef using premier ingredients. The chef's expertise is evident in dishes like low-temperature cooked Japanese black beef and seasonal clay pot rice. A broad selection of Sake, including rare Swiss wines and connoisseur-selected Sake, is available to pair with meals. Dogs are welcome, with meals available for them to enjoy Kaiseki cuisine alongside their owners. YUEN is ideal for anniversaries, special family occasions, or hosting guests
Nihon Ryouri YUEN
Open:
Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 4:00 pm - 11:30 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)Closed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 20,000 JPYAccess:
By bus: Take routes 16, 18, 19, 42, 71, 78, 202, 205, 206, 207 and get off at Toji Higashimon-mae, Toji Minamimon-mae, or Kujo Omiya.Address:
60-2, Nishikujo Hieijo-cho, Minami-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 7. Sumibi Yakiniku Tsunku
Sumibi Yakiniku Tsunku offers delicious meat in semi-private rooms or relaxed couple's counter seats. They provide rare cuts like aitchbone and rump from bulk-purchased Japanese Black Wagyu beef. The soft, domestically-made tongue is a must-try. Seasonal raw oysters and turban shells are also available. The restaurant offers a diverse sake menu, cocktails from affiliated bars, and all-you-can-drink plans. With set menus for both courses and individual items, it's suitable for dates, friend gatherings, and family occasions.
Sumibi Yakiniku Tsunku
Open:
[Monday-Friday] Dinner 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm) / [Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] 12:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)Closed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 4,000 JPYAccess:
About 6-minute walk from the Nishinotoin Exit of JR Kyoto Station / About 10-minute walk from the Central Exit of Kyoto Station on the Kintetsu Kyoto LineAddress:
1F, Ebisu Square Bldg., 714, Ebisunocho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 8. Kyoto Senmaru Shakariki murasaki
In 2004, the beloved establishment Shakariki, renowned for its delectable ramen and dipping noodles, delightedly unveiled its latest addition at Kyoto Tower. The new branch, located within the bustling food hall, allows visitors to savor the consistently exceptional quality of our dishes in a relaxed and casual setting. Our menu features beloved classics such as the ever-popular Ramen with Small Dried Sardine and Soy Sauce, which has garnered a dedicated following among our loyal patrons. Additionally, we are proud to introduce a Kyoto specialty, Tsuke Soba (dipping buckwheat noodles), which has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you are a first-time guest or a returning customer, we invite you to experience the authentic flavors and unwavering excellence that define Shakariki.
Kyoto Senmaru Shakariki murasaki
Open:
11:00 am - 11:00 pmClosed:
NoneAverage price:
-Access:
2 minutes walk from the central exit of JR Kyoto Station, in Kyoto TowerAddress:
721-1, Higashishio-Koji Cho, Karasuma Dori Shichijo Sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 9. Malebranch Kyoto Tower Sando branch
The Malebranche Kyoto Tower Sando branch is a confectionery shop continuing the Cha No Ka legacy, offering treats primarily made with Koicha. Inside the shop, a pine tree symbolizes Cha No Ka, while the champagne gold exterior presents a fresh Cha No Ka worldview. In the eat-in space, guests can savor the Fresh Cha No Ka Ice Cream Bar, exclusive to this location. The flavor deepens with the addition of Koicha espuma. Regular products, Nama Cha No Ka and Cha No Ka are also available.
Malebranch Kyoto Tower Sando branch
Open:
10:00 am - 9:00 pmClosed:
Depends on the establishment.Average price:
[Dinner] 2,500 JPYAccess:
2 minutes walk from the central exit of JR Kyoto Station, in Kyoto TowerAddress:
721-1, Higashishio-Koji Cho, Karasuma Dori Shichijo Sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 10. Fried Chicken and Highball Link
The restaurant takes pride in its renowned dish, the original method Fried Chicken, which has gained immense popularity among patrons. Prepared using a unique cooking technique, the chicken is slow-cooked at low temperatures, resulting in a succulent and flavorful experience. The menu features various options, including thigh, breast, and wing, but the highly recommended choice is the Otoku! Iroiro-Mori (assorted fried chickens), allowing guests to relish the assortment of different chicken cuts. Additionally, the menu offers an array of delightful dishes such as Home-Made Chicken Nuggets and Deep-Fried Salted Chicken Breast. Among the selection of beverages, the most sought-after choice is the highball, prepared with high-pressure carbonated water. Notably, the Kaku Highball, crafted with a perfect ratio of ingredients, has become a favorite among guests.
Fried Chicken and Highball Link
Open:
11:00 am - 11:00 pmClosed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 2,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPYAccess:
2 minutes walk from the central exit of JR Kyoto Station, in Kyoto TowerAddress:
721-1, Higashishio-Koji Cho, Karasuma Dori Shichijo Sagaru, Shimogyo-Ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 11. Root2 LABO
Root2 LABO is a unique restaurant specializing in chopped salads, featuring premium Kyoto vegetables. Behind its stainless-steel door lies a futuristic laboratory-like space. The menu boasts nine salad types, each inspired by global cities, including the classic "ROMA" and "KYOTO" with traditional Japanese ingredients. Various drinks, including selectable milk-type smoothies, are also available. The finely chopped salads offer a diverse flavor and texture experience in each bite. Guests can select their preferred ingredients to create custom salads. This restaurant is an ideal stop for satisfying, guilt-free salads that nourish both body and soul.
Root2 LABO
Open:
[Weekdays, National Holidays] 10:00 am - 9:00 pmClosed:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 1,000 JPYAccess:
Straight from the Hachijo Exit of JR Kyoto Station, 10-minute walkAddress:
9-1, Minami Sanno-cho, Higashi Kujo, Minami-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 12. THE TASTE
THE TASTE is a modern bistro-inspired restaurant offering a chic ambience. Its menu highlights fresh, seasonal Kyoto vegetables served in a Western style. The Kyoto-grown vegetable dish, "Aglio e Olio w/ Kujo Green Onions and Manganji Peppers," is a specialty. Open in the late afternoon and evening, the restaurant also features the exquisite Special Afternoon Tea. The spacious, stylish interior, a hallmark of hotel eateries, offers a relaxing atmosphere, popular with female patrons. Perfect for girls' nights or friendly gatherings, guests can enjoy splendid moments in a relaxed setting.
THE TASTE
Open:
Breakfast 7:00 am - 12:00 pm (L.O. 11:30 am) / Lunch 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm / Cafe 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm / Dinner and Bar 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)Closed:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPYAccess:
From Gojo Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line, take Exit 2 and head north. It is located just past Manjuji Street.Address:
1F, 409, Gojokarasuma-cho, Shimogyo-ku, kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 13. Kyoto Chinese Restaurant Seikaen
設定
Seikaen, a historic restaurant with a 30-year pedigree, has a branch in Kyoto Tower's food court. Customers can enjoy timeless Kyoto culinary traditions, including popular dishes like Tianjin-style Crab Omelet Rice, with fluffy egg and soy-sauce based starchy sauce, or Kyo Okoge, featuring starchy sauce over scorched rice. The unique Kawa Pon, boasting fresh, juicy chicken skin, is exclusive to the Kyoto Tower branch. The sophisticated food court setting is perfect for various occasions, such as post-shopping meals, after-work stops, or dates.
Kyoto Chinese Restaurant Seikaen
Open:
11:00 am - 11:00 pmClosed:
-Average price:
[Dinner] 1,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPYAccess:
2 minutes walk from the central exit of JR Kyoto Station, in Kyoto Tower Address:
721-1, Higashishio-Koji Cho, Karasuma Dori Shichijo Sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 14. Tapioca Belize
Tapioca Belize offers exceptional sweets combining Japanese tapioca and high-grade matcha green tea from a historic Kyoto tea shop dating back to the Heian period. Customers can personalize their tapioca drink by choosing from black, colored, or rare chocolate tapioca and pairing it with their preferred beverage. The top-selling item is the Hand-Made Milk Tea, featuring brewed Assam tea leaves. Freshly made crepes and waffles, available in sweet or savory options, are also on the menu. This versatile spot is perfect for a snack, a shopping break, or outings with dates or family.
Tapioca Belize
Open:
11:00 am - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)Closed:
-Average price:
[Dinner] 500 JPYAccess:
2 minutes walk from the central exit of JR Kyoto Station, in Kyoto TowerAddress:
721-1, Higashishio-Koji Cho, Karasuma Dori Shichijo Sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation 15. Gihan Hajimedo
Gihan Hajimedo, known for authentic Chinese dishes, now graces Kyoto Tower, an international tourist hotspot. The Kyoto Tower branch presents a plethora of dishes, skillfully combining select domestic ingredients with classic Chinese seasonings, the essence of Chinese cookery. These culinary delights are the creations of the famed Chinese chef, Mr. Yoshiyuki Gi. One is invited to visit the Kyoto Tower location and relish the universally pleasing, flavorsome Chinese dishes.
Gihan Hajimedo
Open:
11:00 am - 11:00 pmClosed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 1,300 JPYAccess:
2 minutes walk from the central exit of JR Kyoto Station, in Kyoto TowerAddress:
721-1, Higashishio-Koji Cho, Karasuma Dori Shichijo Sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto MapMore Details Reservation The restaurants introduced above are all located right next to Kyoto Station, making them very convenient to access. Why not drop by one or more of them before or after sightseeing in Kyoto?
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.