Kyoto Izakaya Hopping: Pontocho & Gion Local Food Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience the real taste of Kyoto! On this walking tour, we explore the vibrant backstreets of Kiyamachi and Pontocho to find the best local spots. Whether you are a foodie or just love a good drink, our local guides will take you to their favorite Izakayas that you might miss on your own.
Tour Highlights:
・Izakaya Hopping: Visit two different local pubs/restaurants, each with its own story.
・Local Connection: Chat with your Japanese guide and learn about the city's lifestyle.
・Customizable: If you have dietary preferences or requests, feel free to message us in advance!
Payment (Fair & Simple): We want you to enjoy the best food at the most reasonable cost.
・Direct Payment: Food and drinks are separate—no hidden tour commissions.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Alcohol will not be served to participants under 20
Inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance
What To Expect
Kiyamachi Street
Kiyamachi Street is a popular dining and drinking district in Kyoto, known for its charming and atmospheric izakayas (Japanese-style pubs). These cozy establishments offer a wide range of delicious Japanese cuisine, including favorites like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and a selection of premium sake. During our tour, we'll visit one or two izakayas in Kiyamachi that best suit your preferences. Whether you're in the mood for a lively and energetic atmosphere or a more intimate and relaxed setting, our knowledgeable guide will choose the perfect spots for you. You'll have the opportunity to spend about an hour at each izakaya, savoring a variety of tasty dishes and drinks. Immerse yourself in the local flavors and enjoy the warm hospitality of the friendly staff. This is a fantastic chance to experience an authentic slice of Kyoto's vibrant food and drink culture in one of the city's most beloved nightlife districts.
Pontocho
Pontocho is a narrow, atmospheric alley running parallel to the Kamo River, famous for its concentration of traditional Japanese restaurants. This charming area is the perfect place to experience some of Japan's most iconic dishes, such as sushi and sukiyaki (a hot pot dish with thinly sliced beef, vegetables, and tofu). Our guide will carefully select restaurants in Pontocho based on your preferences, ensuring that you enjoy a dining experience tailored to your tastes. Whether you're a fan of fresh, delicate sushi or the rich, savory flavors of sukiyaki, you'll find the perfect meal in this picturesque alley. Together with the izakayas visited in Kiyamachi, we'll explore a total of three establishments during the tour. To conclude this memorable evening, we'll visit a restaurant renowned for its delectable desserts, providing a sweet finish to your culinary adventure through Kyoto's most enchanting dining districts.
Options
Dinner Tour
Dinner Tour: We visit the izakayas that local people actually go to.
What‘s Included
Visits to two or three izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) or bars
3 hour tour with a local guide
Food expenses (approximately 5,000 yen per person for a total of three places.)
Beverage expenses (approximately 3,000 yen per person for a total of three places.)
Participants are responsible for the guide's drink charge (one drink per venue).
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
18 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing local food & drink tour
Rosa C,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a fantastic evening with Shumpei. It was great being taken around to the best food and drink spots by a local guide, who also adjusted the itinerary based on our preferences. We visited 2 izakayas and a whiskey bar, all of which we really enjoyed. We also loved chatting to Shumpei and learning more about various aspects of Japanese culture. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Kyoto looking for an evening filled with tasty food and great conversation.
It was a bit...
Lina G,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00It was a bit disheveled/rushed and underwhelming but they were very kind and nice. Overall, happy to have tried it, but would not recommend or do again.
Fun night in Kawaramachi!
benjaminaV7121XA,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a good experience. It was just two people this time but that allowed for each of us to really get to know the tour guide and ask detailed questions. He took us to two locations and each place was soo good that we didn't have time for any other place. The guide was very curious about our lives and provided insightful perspectives to the Kyoto life style. Highly recommend booking this tour!
Fun night out in Kyoto
Shuja A,Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A fun and laidback night out with a younger crowd. I really love how we went to places unique to our tastes and preferences. We had delicious food at two restaurants and then ended with a simple and tasty dessert. I loved the vibe of this tour! I would highly recommend it.
Amazing Tour with Mune!
O1521EKalbertog,Oct 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had an incredible experience on this tour! My guide, Mune, was awesome — super friendly, personable, and very informative. He made the whole day feel fun and relaxed while sharing great insights about the area. The food was delicious, and the overall atmosphere was so refreshing. I’d highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Japan! It was such a wonderful experience that I already can’t wait to come back and visit Japan again.
Foodie fun in Kyoto!
Brenda C,Oct 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00We had a wonderful time with another couple, and our knowledgeable guide, Niki, took us to two fantastic restaurants and a Sake bar.
Highly recommend
Sarah L,Oct 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Riku was an amazing tour guide. He showed us places that we wouldn’t have found ourselves. We did this tour our first night in Kyoto and felt like we got a crash course on the local atmosphere.
Come hungry and enjoy Kyoto
skdhal,Jun 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Brilliant time with Mune, our guide. He showed us around to his favorite Izakayas (3) and ended with a dessert. We would not have discovered them ourselves . He was informative and funny too. We highly recommend Mune!!!
Great Experience!!!!
Mitchell C,Jun 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing experience - highly recommend! We went to places we would not have known of otherwise and our guide was exceptional. What drew us to this booking was the fun-looking photos and younger guide, and our decision paid off! This isn’t a “formal” tour and you should expect great company from a younger host who is extremely familiar with the area, and he was very easy to spend the time with! My wife and I really enjoyed this.
Fantastic Izakaya tour
lizstelz2019,Jun 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mune was a great Izakaya guide. He was informative, personable and fun. He suggested the perfect food and sake for our evening. He took us to places that we would not have known about just by reading guides. We definitely got our money's worth and would highly recommend.
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