OTAtrip GUIDE KYOTO LOCAL EXPERTS
Guests enjoying food and drinks inside a Kyoto izakaya

EVENING TOUR · PONTOCHO & KIYAMACHI

Kyoto Izakaya Hopping

Dive into Kyoto's nightlife with a local in the lead. Narrow alleys, cold draft beer, small plates — and the stories behind the city after dark.

~3 hours
Duration
Small group
Group size
English
Language
Evening
Time
from ¥4,160
Price
BOOK YOUR SPOT

WHAT'S INCLUDED

[OK] Visit 2–3 local izakayas in Pontocho & Kiyamachi
[OK] No hidden commissions — you pay the restaurant directly
[OK] Customizable for dietary needs (vegetarian, no seafood, etc.)
[OK] Small groups for a relaxed, genuine izakaya experience
[OK] Learn izakaya etiquette and how to order like a local
[OK] English-speaking guide throughout

TOUR PHOTOS

Pontocho alley lined with izakayas and lanterns at night
Guests enjoying drinks and food inside a Kyoto izakaya
Red lanterns glowing in a Pontocho alley at night

TOUR TIMELINE

18:00

Meet near Kiyamachi-Sanjo. Brief intro to the neighborhood and izakaya culture.

18:15

First izakaya — classic Kyoto small-plates and local draft beer or sake.

19:00

Walk through the narrow lanes of Pontocho alley.

19:15

Second izakaya — regional specialties, your guide explains each dish.

20:15

Optional third stop — continuing the night on your own terms.

21:00

Tour ends. Stay out or head back — the night is yours.

// MEETING POINT

Shijo Kiyamachi

On Kiyamachi Street, slightly south of Shijo — between McDonald's and the Japanese restaurant Kikunoi Roan. Your guide will be holding a sign that reads "Otatrip Guide".

This is a group tour. Please arrive a few minutes early — late arrivals may cause the tour to start without you.

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Start times 12:00 / 18:00
End time +3 hours
Dress code Casual

BOOK YOUR SPOT

Spots are limited. Book early to secure your date.

PLAYER REVIEWS

WHAT GUESTS SAY

★★★★★ 4.9 / 5

★★★★★ Friends

Great sunset in Kyoto

"One of the things I appreciated the most was, instead of giving long lectures about architecture or history, they led the tour with conversations and answering our questions. We started at 15:30 in December and Kyoto was amazing in its sunset. The sake was really tasty. I think it was really worth the fee, route is nicely organized and fun. Overall we had a great time."

Kyoko O. Dec 2025
★★★★★ Friends

Unforgettable tour in Gion

"This Kyoto tour in Gion was one of the best experiences I've had! We visited the shrines, and the guide shared so much fascinating knowledge about the area. They were incredibly patient, took amazing photos of us, and really made the tour memorable. The sake tasting was fantastic too. Highly recommended!"

Charlie C. Dec 2025
★★★★★ Solo

Must-do while you're in Kyoto

"Wonderful experience with fantastic guides who were very knowledgable, saw shrines when they were virtually empty. Great for solo travelers!"

Solo Traveler Feb 2026
★★★★★ Solo

Local Experience with a Golden Heart

"Mune was such an awesome guy! Telling me all about the city's hidden gems. Such a down to earth guy who was happy to answer all the questions I had in regards to Kyoto and Japan as a whole. The sake was perfect to start the tour since it is chilly season. Defs take up a tour with these guys! It's more than worth it. See you again Mune! Such a top bloke!"

Nathe C. Mar 2026

// PRIVATE & CUSTOM TOURS

PLANNING A GROUP TRIP
TO KYOTO?

We offer private and group bookings for travel agencies, corporate groups, and tour operators. Custom itineraries, flexible timing, and dedicated local guides.

  • Groups from 4 to 40+ guests
  • Custom routes & duration
  • Commission-friendly pricing
  • English & Japanese support
VIEW GROUP OPTIONS

FAQ

Do I need to speak Japanese?
Not at all. Your guide handles all ordering and communication. You just sit back and enjoy.
How much should I budget for food and drinks?
Typically ¥3,000–5,000 per person for food and drinks across the stops. This is paid directly at each izakaya.
Can the tour accommodate vegetarians or dietary restrictions?
Yes. Let us know in advance and we will choose izakayas with good options for you.
Is this suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Solo travelers are very welcome — the small-group format makes it easy to chat and meet people.
Can I book a private version for my group?
Yes. Private bookings for 2–8 guests available. Contact us via the Groups page.