Top 10drinkKyoto

Top 10 Best Places to Drink in Kyoto

Discover the best places to drink in Kyoto.

Updated January 21, 2026

All-Time Best

1.

Bar K6

Bar K6
$$$$
Tomikoji-dori Shijo-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

Legendary whisky bar in Kyoto, renowned for its exceptional collection of rare Japanese and Scottish whiskies. The intimate atmosphere and knowledgeable bartenders make this a pilgrimage destination for whisky enthusiasts worldwide.

Highlights

  • Rare whisky collection
  • Expert bartenders
  • Intimate seating
Rare whisky collectionExpert bartendersIntimate seating
2.

Bar Rocking Chair

Bar Rocking Chair
$$$
Kawaramachi-dori Sanjo-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

A sophisticated jazz and whisky bar where live music fills the air while master bartenders craft perfect drinks. The combination of excellent acoustics, premium spirits, and relaxed atmosphere creates an unforgettable evening.

Highlights

  • Live jazz performances
  • Premium whisky selection
  • Vintage atmosphere
Live jazz performancesPremium whisky selectionVintage atmosphere
3.

Nokishita 711

Nokishita 711
$$$
711 Nishikiyamachi-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto

A craft cocktail haven where innovative mixology meets traditional Japanese aesthetics. The bartenders create seasonal cocktails using local ingredients, making each visit a unique experience that captures the essence of Kyoto.

Highlights

  • Seasonal cocktails
  • Japanese-inspired mixology
  • Intimate setting
Seasonal cocktailsJapanese-inspired mixologyIntimate setting
4.

L'Escamoteur

L'Escamoteur
$$$
Pontocho-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

A magical bar experience where skilled bartenders perform close-up magic while crafting exquisite cocktails. This unique combination of entertainment and mixology creates an enchanting evening that delights and amazes guests.

Highlights

  • Close-up magic shows
  • Creative cocktails
  • Unique entertainment
Close-up magic showsCreative cocktailsUnique entertainment
5.

Bar Cordon Noir

Bar Cordon Noir
$$$
Kiyamachi-dori Shijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto

An elegant establishment dedicated to classic cocktails prepared with precision and artistry. The refined atmosphere and impeccable service transport guests to the golden age of cocktail culture.

Highlights

  • Traditional techniques
  • Elegant atmosphere
  • Expert bartenders
Traditional techniquesElegant atmosphereExpert bartenders
6.

Bee's Knees

Bee's Knees
$$$
Shijo-dori Karasuma Nishi-iru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto

A hidden speakeasy that captures the spirit of the Prohibition era with its concealed entrance and vintage decor. Once inside, guests discover an extensive cocktail menu featuring both classic and innovative creations.

Highlights

  • Hidden entrance
  • 1920s atmosphere
  • Creative cocktails
Hidden entrance1920s atmosphereCreative cocktails
7.

Bar Atlantis

Bar Atlantis
$$$
Nijo-dori Teramachi Higashi-iru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

An intimate bar with limited seating that offers personalized service and carefully crafted cocktails. The cozy atmosphere encourages conversation and allows guests to fully appreciate the bartender's craft.

Highlights

  • Intimate setting
  • Personalized service
  • Quality spirits
Intimate settingPersonalized serviceQuality spirits
8.

Hello Dolly

Hello Dolly
$$
Sanjo-dori Kiyamachi Higashi-iru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

A vinyl jazz bar where the warm crackle of records provides the soundtrack to an evening of fine drinks. The extensive vinyl collection and vintage audio equipment create an authentic atmosphere that transports guests to another era.

Highlights

  • Vinyl record collection
  • Vintage audio equipment
  • Jazz atmosphere
Vinyl record collectionVintage audio equipmentJazz atmosphere
9.

Sake Bar Yoramu

Sake Bar Yoramu
$$$
Nishiki-koji Fuyacho Nishi-iru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

A sake specialist bar run by a passionate owner who guides guests through Japan's finest rice wines. The carefully curated selection features rare bottles and seasonal offerings from breweries across Japan.

Highlights

  • Rare sake collection
  • Expert guidance
  • Sake education
Rare sake collectionExpert guidanceSake education
10.

Bar Main Higashiyama

Bar Main Higashiyama
$$$$
Higashiyama-ku, Gion Shijo, Kyoto

A distinguished whisky bar boasting one of Kyoto's most impressive collections. The extensive selection includes rare Japanese whiskies alongside prized bottles from Scotland, Ireland, and America.

Highlights

  • Extensive whisky collection
  • Japanese whisky rarities
  • Gion location
Extensive whisky collectionJapanese whisky raritiesGion location