Kyoto's Culinary Delights: A Night Foodie Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through Kyoto's historic Gion and Ponto-cho districts with the "Kyoto Night Foodie Tour." This tour offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into Kyoto's rich culinary culture, exploring hidden restaurants that even locals find elusive.

As night falls, the streets of Kyoto transform, revealing the warm, inviting glow of its eateries and bars, each with its distinct concept and ambiance. From tasting pure-flavored Kyoto vegetables and meats to savoring skewered tempura and fish, this tour is an immersive experience in traditional Japanese cuisine.

Conclude your evening with a delightful Kyoto dessert or coffee in a charming local café. This tour is perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers looking to discover Kyoto's authentic flavors and hidden culinary gems.

Take advantage of this chance to explore Kyoto's backstreets and indulge in its local delicacies, guided by a knowledgeable local.

Tour Highlights

• Discover hidden culinary treasures with traditional, seasoned dishes in Gion.

• Enjoy a variety of Kyoto sake with informative guidance from your tour guide.

• Conclude with a delightful Kyoto dessert or additional local specialties.

Tour Itinerary

Meeting Point: Gion Shijo Station, Kyoto

• Start your evening here in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district, known for its traditional architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Stop 1: Hanamikoji Street

• A leisurely walk along this iconic street offers a glimpse into old Kyoto with its traditional wooden machiya houses and teahouses. It's an excellent spot for experiencing the historical atmosphere and perhaps spotting a Geisha.

Stop 2: Dining in Gion or Pontocho

• Enjoy dinner at one of the many Izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) in Gion, known for delicious small plates. Alternatively, explore Pontocho Alley, a charming narrow lane lined with a variety of eateries, from upscale kaiseki restaurants to casual yakitori spots, offering a true taste of Kyoto.

Optional Stop: Sake Bar or Matcha Dessert Bar

• After dinner, visit a local sake bar to sample various types of Japanese rice wine, with explanations from knowledgeable staff. Alternatively, for a sweeter experience, head to a matcha dessert bar, where you can indulge in a variety of green tea-infused treats.

End: Return to Gion Shijo Station

• Wrap up your evening by heading back to the station. Depending on your mood, you can end the night here or continue exploring the enchanting streets of Gion.

Meeting Place: Gion Shijo Station in Kyoto 

Explore Restaurants/Izakaya in Gion and Pontocho with your guide 

Visit a sake bar or a matcha dessert bar 

Return: Gion Shijo Station (or stay at the final location if you prefer)

What's Included

• Entire dinner course with a dessert

• Three drinks (choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic)

• 3.5 hours with a local guide

• Tour photos

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• Possible delays in service at restaurants due to staff shortages from the pandemic; tour duration may be extended.

• Limited vegetarian options are available; advance requests are needed for vegetarian meals.

• The tour is suitable for all ages; the presence of other participants is likely.

• There is no need to cover the guide's food and drinks expenses.

• Cash is recommended for additional purchases, as some places may not accept cards.

• Alcohol consumption is restricted to those over 20 years, per Japanese law.

• Smoking is permitted at some tour locations.

• Punctuality is crucial for tour participation; latecomers may miss the tour without refund or rescheduling options.

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the tour starts.

• The free date/time will change up to 24 hours until the tour begins.

• We offer no refund or date/time change for cancellation after the starting time or no-show.

• We will start the tour on time. Late for more than 5 minutes without contacting us will be considered a cancellation without a refund.

Meeting Point

Address: Japan, 〒605-0076 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Kawabatacho, 川端四条

Location: Gion Shijo Station, right outside of Exit 5, in front of Izumo no Okuni Statue

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the duration of the tour?

Ans: The tour lasts for 3 hours.

Q: Is there a dress code for this tour?

Ans: There is no specific dress code, but remember that we will be walking around and exploring different restaurants, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Q: Is transportation included in the tour?

Ans: No, transportation to the meeting place is not included. However, Gion Shijo Station is easily accessible by public transport.

Q: Can I bring my children on this tour?

Ans: Children are welcome on the tour, but participants under 20 cannot consume alcohol.

Q: Are vegetarian options available?

Ans: Limited vegetarian options are available, but please request them in advance.

Q: Are gluten-free options available?

Ans: Unfortunately, we currently do not offer vegan or gluten-free meals.

Q: Can I smoke during the tour?

Ans: Some venues may allow smoking, but please be respectful of those who do not smoke.

Related Read: Where to Eat in Kyoto: Our Top Restaurant Picks