8 Best Bars in Kyoto Where Locals Love to Hang

Kyoto, known for its rich history and stunning temples, also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene that is often overlooked by tourists. Here are eight of the best bars in Kyoto where locals love to hang out, each offering a unique experience that will make you feel like a local.

Bee's Knees: The Hidden Speakeasy

Tucked away in Kyoto, Bee's Knees is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar that is easy to miss but impossible to forget. Look for the yellow door marked "Book Store" to find this gem. Inside, you'll be greeted by Tux and Toru, two of Kyoto's best bartenders, and a 90's hip hop soundtrack. The bar seats only about 10-12 people and features a blackboard menu that changes seasonally. Don't miss the okonomiyaki hot dog if you're looking for a snack. If you can't find something on the menu, the bartenders are happy to create a custom cocktail for you.

Bar K6: Traditional Elegance

For a more traditional Japanese bar experience, head to Bar K6, owned by a progeny of the famous Bar K6 in Kyoto. This bar offers both counter seats and tables for parties of 2-4. It's a good idea to call ahead to reserve a seat. The cocktail menu here is anything but ordinary, making it a must-visit for those seeking a classic yet innovative drinking experience.

Ixey: Botanical Innovations

Located in the Gion District, Ixey is a gem that's hard to find but worth the search. Look for a small white backlit sign with three cocktail glasses and "3F" to find this bar on the third floor. The bartender specializes in botanical herbs, creating innovative drinks and great riffs on classics. The Kyoto Garden, made with matcha, yuzu, egg white, and Kinobi gin, is a standout. Be prepared for a steam punk/magician theme and note that the bar only takes cash.

Nokishita 711 Gin & Cocktail Lab: Seasonal Gin Specials

In the Shimogyo Ward, Nokishita 711 Gin & Cocktail Lab is a small but unique cocktail bar specializing in gin. The menu changes with the seasons and ingredient availability, ensuring you'll always find something new. On a recent visit, the wild herb gin with hassaku orange, sansho pepper, and tonic was a highlight. The bar also offers food pairings with your cocktails.

Sake Bar Wadachi: Chic and Cozy

Near Gion-Shijo, Sake Bar Wadachi is a chic and cozy spot popular with both domestic and international tourists. The bar features small table seats, counter seats, and a standing area. An English menu is available, and drinks start at about 500 yen. The bar offers a variety of dishes that match well with sake, including regular and seasonal options.

Masuya Saketen: Trendy Sake Bar

Masuya Saketen, located near Hankyu-Kawaramachi station, is a trendy sake bar with a wide selection of high-quality sake from different parts of Japan. The staff is happy to help you choose a bottle and advise on how to drink it. The smallest amount you can order is a half glass (90ml), and you can choose to drink it cold or hot. The kitchen serves Kyoto specialties that pair well with the sake.

Takahashi: Hidden Sake Gem

In the Karasuma area, Takahashi is a hidden sake bar that's easy to miss but worth finding. Inside, you'll find a classic style with lots of sake bottles behind the counter. The master will happily recommend the best sake to drink. The menu includes dishes made with food pairing in mind, and don't miss the handmade soba, a specialty of the bar.

Suiba Shijo Karawamachiten: Classic Izakaya Fare

Suiba Shijo Karawamachiten is an easily accessible izakaya located near the southwest corner of the Imperial Palace Park. This bar offers classic izakaya fare like fried chicken, oden, and yakitori. It's a great spot for both off-the-clock salarymen and students, with a convenient location and a variety of Japanese drinks available. If you're looking for something unique, try the smoked and lightly-fried stingray fin or the rolled omelet with mentaiko sauce and fish roe.

Nihonshu to Obanzai no Kyosakaba Kensui Nishiki: Sake and Local Dishes

Nihonshu to Obanzai no Kyosakaba Kensui Nishiki is a highly recommended izakaya for its sake and local dishes. Located near Karasuma Station, this bar offers a wide range of sake and dishes that match perfectly. The average price for dinner is around 4,000 JPY, and the bar is open from 3:00 pm to 12:00 am. It's a great spot to enjoy a meal and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.