If you’re planning to travel beyond Tokyo and around the country with a Japan Rail Pass, then you’ll want to brush up on the most stylish rooftop bars with stunning views outside the capital. To get you started, we’ll take a look at some of the best in Kyoto.
While Tokyo is well-known for its stunning rooftop bars, Kyoto offers just as much of an eclectic selection. With no further ado, let’s dive into the 7 best rooftop bars in Kyoto, each one offering glamour, novelty, and unique views over the bustling city.
Bar KOHAKU is located on the 4th floor of the Park Hyatt Kyoto, and offers a stunning view of the Yasaka Pagoda through floor-to-ceiling windows. The bar has an intimate vibe, bolstered by dark wood and leather furnishings.
The drinks menu also features a wide selection of Japanese whiskey, gin, and sake, many of which are locally distilled in Kyoto.
Bar KOHAKU
360 Masuyacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0826, Japan
Open every day from 4-11 pm
Situated on the 6th floor of the Noha Hotel, Cicon Bar and Restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to take in the beautiful views of the Kyoto skyline. The restaurant specializes in high-end Italian cuisine and offers dishes made with fresh local produce.
The drinks menu includes a variety of cocktails, beers, and wines from both Japan and abroad. The dress code is casual, so don’t feel like you need to dress to the nines!
Cicon Rooftop Bar
Japan, 〒605-0846 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Gojobashihigashi, 4 Chome−450 1 NOHGAHOTEL 6F
Open every day from 3-11 pm
K36 Rooftop Bar, located in the heart of Kyoto's Higashiyama district, boats panoramic views of some of the city’s most iconic monuments, inducing the Yasaka Pagoda and Hokan-ji Temple.
Perched on the top floor of Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu, the bar’s atmosphere comes alive when the sun sets, illuminating the city in a beautiful array of lights. The bar’s dress-code is smart casual, so you’ll have to put a little effort in and leave your t-shirts, shorts and sandals at home!
K36 Rooftop Bar
Japan, 〒605-0862 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Kiyomizu, 2 Chome−204-2 4F The Hotel Seiryu
Open every day from 3pm -12 am
Located on the 2nd floor of the Rohm Theatre Kyoto Park Plaza at the foot of the Heian Jingu Shrine, Kyoto Modern Terrace offers fantastic views over Okazaki Park. The interior bar has a contemporary design with comfortable seating, a high ceiling, and large windows.
The terrace also offers special sofa seats for couples, making it a great place for a romantic rendezvous!
Kyoto Modern Terrace
Japan, 〒606-8342 Kyoto, Sakyo Ward, Okazaki Saishojicho, 13
Open every day from 11 am—8 pm
Part of the Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo, Ronde provides an intimate and modern setting, complemented by the timeless beauty of the Kyoto skyline. The sleek interior, coupled with their creative cocktail list, provides an experience you won't forget.
The all-day menu offers a selection of luxury western cuisine, as well as an afternoon high tea package full of delicious sweets and cakes. You can even order an American-style breakfast in the morning!
Ronde
Japón, 〒601-8412 Kyoto, Minami Ward, Nishikujo Inmachi, 17−17, Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo, 1F
Open every day from 6:30am - 10pm
Located within the heights of Kyoto Tower, Sky Lounge KUU provides a serene escape from Kyoto’s bustling streets. Offering a stunning vista of the Kamogawa River and Higashiyama mountains, this lounge has a sophisticated ambiance with stylish lighting that's perfect for intimate conversations.
The restaurant is outstanding, and serves some of the most exclusive dishes in the city. Like Kyoto Modern Terrace, they also offer special couple’s seats for an extra romantic touch. And if you’re ready to tie the knot, you can even rent the space out for weddings!
Sky Lounge KUU
Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokojicho, 721-1
Open every day from 5-11pm
Touzan Bar, nestled within the Hyatt Regency Kyoto, is tastefully lit and decorated with antiques, old books, and ancient wooden beams, offering visitors a uniquely atmospheric experience.
With an impressive collection of high-end Japanese whiskey, potent sake, and local Kyoto beers, this bar is the perfect spot for refined palate explorers. The tranquil environment of Touzan is a pleasant contrast to the busy city streets outside. And don’t miss their Happy Hour from 5-7pm!
Touzan
Japan, 〒605-0941 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Sanjusangendomawari, 644
Open every day from 5-11pm
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