10 Things to Do at Night in Kyoto

Kyoto is a city of ancient traditions, stunning temples, and breathtaking beauty. It is also home to some of the most exciting nightlife in Japan. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a night of clubbing, or just want to explore the city’s unique nightlife, there is something for everyone in Kyoto. Here are 10 exciting things to do at night in Kyoto.

1. Enjoy a Night Cruise on the Kamo River

Take a romantic night cruise along the Kamo River and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Kyoto’s waterways. The sightseeing cruises run from April to October, and they offer a great way to experience the city from a different perspective. You can enjoy some of Kyoto’s most iconic sights, such as the To-ji Temple and the Kitano Tenman-gu Shrine, while taking in the stunning night views of the city.

The cruises last around one hour and include a light meal and drinks. They are a great way to relax and enjoy the city’s nightscape.

The cruises are reasonably priced and can be booked online or through a local tour guide.

2. Visit a Traditional Izakaya

Izakayas are traditional Japanese pubs where people come to enjoy drinks, food, and conversation. In Kyoto, you can find a wide variety of izakayas, from traditional to modern. They offer a great way to experience the city’s nightlife while sampling delicious Japanese dishes and drinks.

The atmosphere in an izakaya is always warm and friendly, and you can find some of the best food and drinks in Kyoto. From sake to shochu to beer, there is something for everyone. The menu also includes a variety of traditional Japanese dishes, such as yakitori, tempura, and sushi.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Kyoto’s nightlife, then a visit to an izakaya is a must.

3. Check out a Local Bar

Kyoto is home to a wide variety of bars, from traditional bars to modern lounges. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to have a drink and chat with friends or you’re looking for a place to dance the night away, there is something for everyone.

You can find bars in all parts of the city, from the bustling Gion district to the tranquil Higashiyama area. In Kyoto, bars offer a great way to experience the city’s nightlife.

From craft beer bars to cocktail bars to dive bars, you can find something to suit your taste and budget.

4. Have a Night Out in Gion

Gion is one of Kyoto’s most popular nightlife districts, and it is home to some of the city’s best bars, clubs, and restaurants. From traditional izakayas to modern lounges, Gion has something for everyone.

You can also find a wide variety of traditional Japanese entertainment, such as kabuki and geisha shows. Gion is the perfect place to experience Kyoto’s unique nightlife.

If you’re looking for a night out in Kyoto, then Gion is the place to be.

5. Go to a Karaoke Bar

Karaoke bars are a popular nightlife activity in Japan, and Kyoto is no exception. There are a variety of karaoke bars throughout the city, offering a great way to have fun and make new friends.

Karaoke bars in Kyoto offer a variety of song choices, from Japanese classics to international hits. They also offer a wide selection of drinks and snacks.

Karaoke bars are a great way to experience Kyoto’s nightlife and have some fun with friends.

6. Explore the Streets of Ponto-Cho

Ponto-cho is one of Kyoto’s most vibrant nightlife districts, and it is home to a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. It is the perfect place to explore the city’s unique nightlife.

You can explore the narrow streets of Ponto-cho and find some of the city’s best bars and restaurants. From izakayas to traditional Japanese pubs, there is something for everyone.

Ponto-cho is a great place to experience the city’s unique nightlife and have some fun.

7. Visit a Jazz Club

Kyoto is home to a thriving jazz scene, and there are a variety of jazz clubs throughout the city. From traditional jazz bars to modern lounges, you can find something to suit your taste.

Jazz clubs in Kyoto offer a great way to experience the city’s nightlife while listening to some of the best jazz music in the country. The atmosphere is always warm and welcoming, and you can find some of the best jazz musicians in the city.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Kyoto’s nightlife, then a visit to a jazz club is a must.

8. Eat at a Food Stall

Kyoto is home to a wide variety of food stalls, and they are a great way to experience the city’s nightlife. From traditional Japanese dishes to international favorites, there is something for everyone.

Food stalls in Kyoto offer a great way to sample some of the best food in the city. You can find everything from yakitori to tempura to sushi. The atmosphere is always lively and the prices are reasonable.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Kyoto’s nightlife, then a visit to a food stall is a must.

9. Take a Night Tour of the City

Kyoto is a beautiful city, and it is even more stunning at night. You can take a night tour of the city and experience its unique beauty from a different perspective.

Night tours of Kyoto offer a great way to explore the city’s iconic sights, such as the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Fushimi Inari Shrine. You can also take in the city’s stunning night views.

Night tours are reasonably priced and can be booked online or through a local tour guide.

10. Go to a Robot Restaurant

Robot restaurants are a popular form of entertainment in Japan, and Kyoto is home to some of the best. These restaurants offer a unique experience where you can watch robots perform a variety of shows while you enjoy a delicious meal.

Robot restaurants in Kyoto offer a great way to experience the city’s nightlife while enjoying some of the best food in the city. The atmosphere is always lively and the shows are very entertaining.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Kyoto’s nightlife, then a visit to a robot restaurant is a must.

Conclusion

Kyoto is a city of ancient traditions, stunning temples, and breathtaking beauty. It is also home to some of the most exciting nightlife in Japan. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a night of clubbing, or just want to explore the city’s unique nightlife, there is something for everyone in Kyoto.

From a night cruise on the Kamo River to a visit to a traditional izakaya, to a night out in Gion, to a visit to a jazz club or a robot restaurant, Kyoto has something to offer everyone. So, if you’re looking to experience the city’s unique nightlife, then these 10 things to do at night in Kyoto are a must-do.