Kyoto: Izakaya Bars Guided Walking Tour

Kyoto’s vibrant nightlife comes alive on the Izakaya Bars Guided Walking Tour. Led by a local expert, this 3-hour adventure takes visitors through the bustling Kawaramachi and Kiyamachi areas. Guests can expect to savor local beer, cocktails, and cuisine while gaining insights into the city’s unique drinking culture. The tour culminates at an exclusive hidden bar known only to locals, offering an unforgettable experience of cultural exploration. With limited group sizes, this immersive tour promises an authentic glimpse into Kyoto’s captivating after-dark allure.

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Key Points

A 3-hour guided walking tour that explores Kyoto’s vibrant izakaya (traditional Japanese pub) scene, including beer, cocktails, and local cuisine.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to discover hidden bars and learn about Kyoto’s drinking culture and customs from a local expert.
Participants can expect a small-group setting that promotes interaction and a deeper understanding of the local heritage.
The tour covers the Kawaramachi and Kiyamachi areas, ending at an exclusive local bar known only to locals.
Discounts up to 20% are available for early bookings, and the tour is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 289 reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Kyoto Izakaya Bars Guided Walking Tour provides a 3-hour immersive experience, with prices starting from $31.48 per person – a savings of up to 20%.

Travelers can explore Kyoto’s traditional streets with a local guide, visiting hidden izakayas and bars known only to locals. The tour includes a guided walking tour, beer, cocktail, sightseeing, and food tasting.

The main stops are the Kawaramachi and Kiyamachi areas, culminating in a visit to an exclusive local bar. Participants can learn about Kyoto’s drinking culture and engage with local customs and nightlife in a small-group setting.

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Experience and Itinerary

Guests embark on a guided walking tour of Kyoto’s traditional streets, led by a knowledgeable local. The tour begins with a 15-minute guided overview, followed by 2.5 hours of beer, cocktail, sightseeing, and food tasting. Key stops include the vibrant Kawaramachi and Kiyamachi areas, culminating in an exclusive hidden bar known only to locals.

Experience	Duration
Guided tour	15 minutes
Beer, cocktail, sightseeing, and food tasting	2.5 hours
Main stops: Kawaramachi and Kiyamachi areas	–
Final stop: Hidden bar exclusive to locals	–

The small-group size fosters connections, allowing guests to deeply engage with local customs and nightlife while discovering temples and hidden alleys for a culture.

Local Insights and Cultural Immersion

As participants embark on this guided tour, they’ve the opportunity to explore Kyoto’s rich drinking culture, including the nuances of sake and whiskey.

The local guide provides insights into local customs and nightlife, fostering a deeper culture.

In the intimate small-group setting, travelers can engage with the guide and fellow participants, forging connections and gaining unique perspectives on Kyoto’s vibrant izakaya scene.

The tour takes visitors off the beaten path, unveiling hidden temples and alleys that offer a more authentic understanding of the city’s heritage and traditions.

Participant Information

This Kyoto Izakaya Bars Guided Walking Tour is suitable for adults aged 20 and above.

Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice. The meeting point is in front of the Disney Store at Kyoto’s Shijo-Kawaramachi intersection.

The small-group tour, limited to 5-10 guests, fosters connections with the knowledgeable local guide and fellow travelers as they explore hidden bars and discover Kyoto’s vibrant drinking culture.

Participants can expect to sample beer, cocktails, local cuisine, and gain a deeper understanding of sake and whiskey during the 3-hour experience, which includes guided tours and tasting.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this Kyoto Izakaya Bars Guided Walking Tour, rating it an impressive 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 289 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provide valuable insights into Kyoto’s drinking culture and nightlife. Guests consistently praise the tour’s excellent value for money, with a 4.7/5 rating in this category.

Many note the unique experience of discovering hidden izakaya bars and alleys that are exclusive to locals. The tour receives glowing feedback for its culture and the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers in an intimate small-group setting.

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Exploring Kyoto’s Izakaya Culture

Kyoto’s vibrant izakaya culture offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s age-old drinking traditions. These casual Japanese pubs serve as lively hubs where locals unwind over small plates and drinks. From intimate speak-easies to bustling neighborhood joints, each izakaya boasts its own distinct ambiance and menu. Explore Kyoto’s robust sake and whisky scene, sample authentic Japanese cuisine, and learn about convivial conversations with friendly patrons. Exploring the city’s izakayas promises an unforgettable taste of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

Izakaya Essentials
Sake	Traditional rice wine
Yakitori	Grilled skewered meats
Edamame	Boiled and salted soybeans
Kushikatsu	Deep-fried breaded meat
Karaage	Japanese-style fried chicken

Discovering Hidden Bars and Alleys

Where can one discover Kyoto’s hidden bars and alleys?

Along the guided tour, visitors venture into the Kawaramachi and Kiyamachi areas, exploring the city’s lesser-known drinking establishments.

The local guide leads the group through winding alleys, introducing them to cozy, traditional izakayas known only to insiders.

Participants sample local beer, cocktails, and cuisine while learning about Kyoto’s vibrant nightlife culture.

The tour culminates at an exclusive bar favored by locals, providing a rare chance to take in the authentic atmosphere of Kyoto’s drinking scene.

This off-the-beaten-path experience offers a unique window into the city’s hidden charms.

Connecting With Local Customs and Nightlife

As participants explore Kyoto’s vibrant nightlife, they’re immersed in the local customs and traditions that shape the city’s drinking culture.

From learning about sake and whiskey to engaging with locals, the tour offers a genuine cultural experience.

Small group sizes foster connections, allowing travelers to learn about customs and forge bonds with the guide and fellow participants.

Whether it’s discovering hidden alleys or exploring tucked-away bars, the tour provides unique insights into Kyoto’s nightlife, ensuring a memorable and authentic experience that goes beyond the typical tourist trail.

Things To Know

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The minimum group size for the tour is 5 guests. The small-group format of 5-10 participants fosters connections with the guide and fellow travelers, providing an intimate culture experience.

Can Children Under 20 Participate in the Tour?

No, the tour is not suitable for individuals under 20 years old. The tour is intended for adults and does not allow participation by children.

Is It Possible to Get a Refund After 24 Hours?

Guests can cancel their tour reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. After 24 hours, the tour operator’s free cancellation policy no longer applies, and refunds may not be available.

Do I Need to Pay Upfront to Reserve My Spot?

No, you don’t need to pay upfront to reserve your spot. The tour allows you to "Reserve now & pay later", meaning you can book your spot without making an immediate payment.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs During the Tour?

No, there are no additional fees or costs during the tour. The price of $31.48 per person includes the guided tour, food and drink tastings, and access to the hidden local bar at the end of the experience.

Sum Up

Enjoy Kyoto’s vibrant izakaya culture on this guided walking tour. Explore the city’s bustling nightlife hubs, indulge in local cuisine and drinks, and discover hidden bars known only to locals. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll gain unparalleled insights into the rich traditions and unique customs that make Kyoto’s nightlife scene so captivating.