This might be Kyoto's most famous temple. I went in the evening on a Thursday night at the end of October, and it was still full of people. The temple is beautiful and its many gates are iconic. Since it is open 24 hours, I would recommend arriving as early as possible, if you intend to hike up (I have done it once and it is a very neat experience). If you go at night, you will have some cool photos and a different vibe, but maybe not the best hiking experience (though it is still possible a good experience). This is a best of the best cultural experience in my opinion, and I would highly recommend it (though everyone seems to be aware of that!).

Fushimi Inari Taisha is an unforgettable experience and a must-visit when in Kyoto. The iconic thousand vermillion torii gates create a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere as you walk up the mountain trails. The shrine itself is beautiful and deeply spiritual, offering a glimpse into traditional Shinto practices. What makes it truly special is the combination of culture, nature, and history. You can take your time exploring the smaller shrines along the paths, encounter friendly fox statues (messengers of Inari), and enjoy breathtaking views of Kyoto from higher up the trail. Be prepared for a bit of a climb if you want to reach the summit, but it’s absolutely worth it. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the serene ambiance.

I chose the long route and it was an amazing experience. I saw beautiful, rarely visited spots, walked through a small bamboo grove and reached the highest point of the mountain. Some sections are steep and can be challenging for people without good fitness or for older visitors. ⭐ Pros • Iconic thousands of vermilion torii gates creating one of Japan’s most memorable walks • Beautiful forested hillside with shrines and quiet viewpoints • The higher you go, the calmer and more atmospheric it becomes • Two route options, a short one and a long one- long one is cool but there are some really challenging sections ⚠️ Cons • Extremely crowded near the entrance • The full hike can be demanding • Hard to take clean photos without arriving early 🎯 Tips • Start at sunrise to experience the gates with minimal crowds • Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes • The long route is the most rewarding if you enjoy hiking

Perhaps the most famous attraction in Kyoto, but it’s extremely crowded and at times feels like you’re being herded like cows, especially at the first torii gates. I was honestly disappointed at the start because it was packed with tourists. I’d say around seventy percent were foreigners. I arrived at 9:30 AM and the tour groups made it feel like a supermarket. My initial disappointment faded once I reached the upper areas. The crowd thinned out, and while there were still many people, it became manageable. The place is set on a mountain, and at the top you can enjoy a peaceful natural setting with shrines dedicated to Inari. If possible, visit before 7:00 AM so you can actually enjoy some peace and quiet.

Since this is 24hrs I highly recommend going ar night as I did. Had the entire place virtually to myself. Much cooler at night for walking up the thousands of steps. Unforgettable hike to the top. Bring lots of water and be prepared to be tired by the end. One of the best hikes I have ever done to the top. Must see in Kyoto!

Visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha at night was an unforgettable experience. We decided to go after dark, and it was absolutely breathtaking. The paths were quiet, the air cool, and the Senbon Torii illuminated in a soft, ethereal glow. With no crowds around, the atmosphere felt serene and almost sacred, allowing me to wander in silence and truly absorb the beauty of the shrine. It’s a completely different experience from visiting during the day. Peaceful, reflective, and deeply moving. If you have the chance, I highly recommend a night visit to appreciate the spiritual stillness of this incredible place.

Got here at 5:30pm right as the sun went down and seemed like majority of tourists had just left. The pathways with gates had lots of lights so getting around In the dark was no problem. Beautiful shrine and lots of cool statues. A few cats around which made the experience even better. You can likely spend 2 hours if you would like to hike to the top and back. We went maybe 1/3 of the way up and was satisfied. There's also a QR code for a free audio tour if you like.

Kiyomizu-dera reveals its beauty in layers—architecture, nature, and atmosphere intertwining with a quiet sense of timelessness. Visiting during the late-autumn light, the temple feels almost painted by the setting sun, each structure glowing as though lit from within. The vermilion pagoda stands as the first crescendo of the experience: sharp, elegant tiers rising above a tapestry of autumn leaves. In the warm dusk light, its crimson beams appear almost translucent, catching the gold of sunset with a soft radiance. Around it, maple trees in flaming reds and honeyed orange deepen the scene’s drama, making the pagoda feel like the heart of a living painting. As the path continues upward, the view opens to Kiyomizu-dera’s iconic wooden stage. Even from afar, the vast veranda—supported by its forest of towering wooden pillars—conveys an overwhelming sense of craftsmanship and endurance. At sunset, the pavilion glows with a gentle amber shine, while crowds gather along its edge, drawn by the sweeping view of Kyoto below and the fiery canopy of autumn foliage. The mingling of human energy and ancient architecture creates a rare atmosphere: lively, yet reverent; dynamic, yet serene. The most unforgettable sight arrives as dusk deepens—the pagoda illuminated among the autumn colors. Its red hue intensifies into a brilliant glow, contrasting beautifully with the cool evening sky. The surrounding trees, now darker and richer in tone, frame the structure like a stage curtain opening to a perfect scene. It is a moment that feels both grand and intimate, capturing the emotional essence of Kyoto’s autumn. Kiyomizu-dera is more than a historical landmark; it is an unfolding journey of light, season, and space. Each turn reveals another composition worth remembering, and each moment feels touched by centuries of devotion. To visit at sunset in autumn is to witness the temple at its most poetic—where the world slows, the surroundings glow, and Kyoto quietly shows the depth of its beauty.

A truly iconic Kyoto landmark. The wooden stage overlooking the city is spectacular and offers some of the best views in the area. The temple grounds are spacious, well maintained, and full of interesting spots to explore. The walk through the historic streets leading to the temple adds to the experience. Absolutely worth visiting, especially around sunset or in spring/autumn.

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and unforgettable temples, offering a blend of spiritual atmosphere, architectural beauty, and breathtaking panoramic views. Perched on a hillside in the Higashiyama district, the temple feels like a gateway between the city and the surrounding nature. Its famous wooden stage—built without a single nail—extends dramatically over the slope, giving visitors a stunning vantage point over Kyoto, especially during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage. Walking through the grounds is a journey in itself. The vibrant vermilion gates, peaceful pagodas, and the sound of flowing water from the Otowa waterfall create a calm and uplifting experience. Many visitors stop to drink from the waterfall's three streams, each said to bring a different blessing: longevity, academic success, or love. The entire complex is beautifully maintained, with charming pathways lined with traditional shops as you approach the temple. Whether you’re here for photography, culture, or simply a moment of serenity, Kiyomizu-dera offers an atmosphere that feels timeless. It’s a place where history, spirituality, and natural beauty meet, making it a must-visit highlight of Kyoto.

Kiyomizu dera was very crowded even on a weekday afternoon, but the beautiful autumn colours made the visit worthwhile. We arrived near sunset, and the warm light made the foliage glow vividly. It is quite a long upslope walk from the bus stop or bus terminal, though there are plenty of food options along the way. Both viewing stages were crowded with visitors trying to take photos. Inside the temple, there is a steep staircase leading towards the exit, but you can opt for the longer sloped path instead. Toilets are available within the grounds. A stunning spot, especially in autumn, though be prepared for crowds.

Kiyomizu-dera is truly a must-visit in Kyoto. The temple is not only beautiful, but it also offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding nature. Walking through the historic wooden halls and seeing the iconic veranda built without nails is an experience in itself. The atmosphere feels peaceful yet vibrant, especially with the sound of flowing water from the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink for good fortune. The paths leading up to the temple are lined with charming shops and local treats, which make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you go during cherry blossom season, the lush greenery of summer, or the autumn foliage, the scenery is absolutely stunning. This is one of those places where you can truly feel the blend of culture, history, and natural beauty all at once. A highlight of Kyoto that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Japan.

I recently visited Kiyomizudera, and it truly felt like stepping into a dream. The view from the temple overlooking Kyoto is breathtaking, especially during sunset. The atmosphere is calm yet full of life, with traditional streets leading up to the temple adding even more charm. It’s a place where you can feel both history and peace at the same time. Definitely one of the most beautiful and unforgettable spots in all of Kyoto — a must-visit for anyone coming to Japan! 💞💞💞💞

Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto): The city’s iconic soul—its nail-free cliffside veranda framing panoramic Kyoto views is unmissable. • Seasonal magic: Fall = veranda + crimson maples (postcard perfection); Spring = cherry blossoms dusting the slopes. Pro Tips: • Arrive by 7:30am to skip crowds (the veranda gets packed fast). • Post-visit: Wander Sannenzaka/Ninenzaka (10min walk) for matcha treats & traditional shops. This isn’t just a temple—it’s Kyoto’s postcard come to life. 5/5 stars. 🛕🍁

A fantastic cultural experience! Nijo Castle offers a deep dive into Japan’s history through its beautifully preserved palace, traditional architecture, and famous nightingale floors. The gardens are wide, peaceful, and stunning in every season. Everything is well organized and easy to explore. A must-visit in Kyoto for history lovers and casual travelers alike.

Nijo Castle is one of those rare places where the beauty of power reveals itself with quiet dignity. Approaching the outer defenses, the immaculate white walls rise above meticulously stacked stone foundations, mirrored perfectly in the still waters of the moat. The southwest turret in your photos stands poised and noble—its black-tiled roof, crisp lines, and reflection in the moat create a scene that feels both stern and serene, as if time has paused in the Edo period. Passing through the gates, the magnificent Karamon Gate commands attention. Its gold leaf, elaborate wood carvings of phoenixes, peonies, and mythical beasts shimmer under the afternoon sun, radiating a restrained grandeur unique to Japanese aesthetics. It is not flamboyant—it is confident. This was once a stage for shoguns to display authority, and even now, standing before it feels like witnessing history breathe. Inside, the scenery softens. The expansive lawn, manicured trees, and gentle curve of the garden path create a sense of peace that contrasts beautifully with the castle’s defensive exterior. In your photos, the warm light falling across the wooden walls of the Ninomaru Palace highlights the textures of age—wood grain that has absorbed centuries of seasons and stories. Climbing upward to the elevated viewpoint, the landscape expands dramatically. Kyoto’s cityscape, distant mountains, golden ginkgo trees, and crimson autumn foliage all converge around the glimmering moat. It is a scene uniquely Nijo Castle—where past and present coexist in a single sweeping view. What makes Nijo Castle unforgettable are its details: the patina on the copper gate, the organic rhythm of the stone walls, the interplay of shadow beneath wooden corridors, the garden’s quiet geometry. It showcases the Japanese mastery of balancing material, light, and nature with perfect precision. More than a historic site, Nijo Castle feels like a stage where time moves gently, inviting contemplation. Leaving the castle, the sense of calm authority lingers—a quiet echo of Kyoto’s timeless charm, impossible to replicate anywhere else.

Lovely walk back into time. My family enjoyed the nightingale corridors and the palace thoroughly. There are English signs giving background all along and clear signage to guide you through. Highly recommend doing this early in the morning so you were not fighting the crowds. Currently there is also a nighttime event till December 8, where the castle grounds are open from 6 PM to 10 PM. If I had to choose, I would do the daytime visit because you can see the castle and the grounds and appreciate things better.

A very beautiful garden, and also a stroll inside a typical castle in-and-outside, that I recommend you visit. Just be careful of the working hours as they close early and the castle tour is even an hour before the closing time. It's a good one to one and a half hour easy pace stroll you can combine with To-ji complex (easily walkable distance)

Very beautiful castle. It is a self guided tour with information panels along each room in english, japanese. No photos are permitted indoors so be mindful of this. Also no shoes but they have storage at the front for your shoes. Good glimpse into japanese history. The surrounding gardens are also very nice

I enjoyed a lot my visit to the castle, a World Heritage Site and an important part of the shogun history. I arrived a little after it opened so it wasn’t too crowded. I got the combined ticket to go inside and it’s worth it (1300 yen I believe). Most of the panels are not original but you still get a glimpse into the past and it’s beautiful. The nightingale floor sounds need to be listened in person, it really sounds like there are birds inside! You’ll also see a lot of Japanese children in school tours which is lovely, and their teachers looked really invested in explaining them the history behind the castle. Unfortunately, no photos are allowed inside but they sell postcards with nice pictures. Also, you have to take your shoes off to go inside the castle. The gardens are also pleasant. The perimeter outside the castle seems to be a favourite spot for runners 👍

Had a great time walking around here. Really nice gardens. We also paid a small amount like 100 yen to go into the painting gallery next to the cafe and gift shop area and that was really worth it to see up close some of paintings and the details.

I recently visited Kinkakuji, and it completely captured my heart. The golden pavilion shining over the calm water is one of the most stunning sights I’ve ever seen. The reflection on the pond looks almost unreal, like a painting brought to life. Walking through the peaceful garden feels timeless, surrounded by nature and beauty at every step. It’s an unforgettable place that perfectly represents Kyoto’s elegance and spirit. I’d highly recommend everyone to visit and experience its magic in person! 💞💞💞💞💞💞

Beautiful golden temple especially on a sunny day. The golden temple shimmering over the pond feels almost unreal, especially when the reflection is perfectly clear. The surrounding gardens are peaceful and beautifully maintained, with little paths and viewpoints that make you slow down and take it all in. It was crowded, but a quick visit is enough to leave a strong impression

​The Crowded Experience at the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji ​A visit to Kinkaku-ji, widely known as the "Golden Pavilion," is often a highlight on every traveler's "must-see" list for Kyoto. It appears on every postcard and guidebook, but as you experienced, the great anticipation doesn't always align with the reality on the ground. ​The Gap Between Expectation and Reality ​The expectation was to see the dazzling structure, covered in pure gold, perfectly reflected in the tranquil waters of the pond, just as seen in photographs. Without a doubt, the building itself, standing on the water's edge, is a magnificent sight in its architectural beauty and golden gleam. ​However, the reality is that the experience often becomes challenging, primarily because of the unbearable crowds. ​The Crowds That Undermine the Experience ​The central issue at Kinkaku-ji is the massive audience. Visitors are directed along a narrow path that circles the pond, and everyone is trying to capture the exact same moment, from the same viewpoint. ​Difficulty Appreciating the Beauty: When you have to push and move with the masses, it's very difficult to "absorb" the beauty and experience the serenity that should prevail in a Zen temple. Instead of deep contemplation, it becomes a race to take a photo and move on. ​Lack of Intimacy: The place, which by its nature should encourage quiet and meditation, feels like a mass tourist site where the temple is merely a fleeting visual attraction. The pressure to keep moving doesn't allow one to fully enjoy the golden reflection or the meticulously maintained surrounding gardens. ​In summary: Although the Golden Pavilion is a visual masterpiece, the crowds destroy a significant part of the opportunity to truly appreciate the power and beauty of the location. In this case, the gap between the temple's image and the actual visitor experience is quite wide.

The temple and surrounding gardens are absolutely stunning. Breathtaking actually. Unfortunately the experience doesn’t allow for that to be enjoyed. There are literally bus loads of people there. You more or less line up to take a photo then feel compelled to move quickly from that vantage spot to allow the next person to take their photo. The grounds are a one way walking system which is orderly and likely much less chaotic than if it was not implemented. But it is also hard to meander or linger and enjoy the views. There was no peace to find. And you cannot enter the temple. I arrived at 10.30am in September. You can easily buy tickets at the entrance. There were some stalls and tea rooms at the end of the walking circuit.

Reading the comments, I thought there would be hundreds of tourists. Yes, there are a lot of visitors but I found that you still got to enjoy the grounds and take nice pictures without too much hassle. Also, everyone stops (me included) right at the first sight of the Golden Pavilion, because it truly is amazing, but a few steps to your right and you’ll have plenty more space for photos/selfies and the views are also beautiful. The Pavilion was once the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimits and after his death it became a Zen temple, and now we can all enjoy it 😊 Since it was raining half the time during my trip to Japan, I tried to plan this visit on a sunny day, so that the light would reflect even more on the gold leaf. It must also be amazing at golden hour ❤️

It’s a gold temple... iconic, elegant, and definitely photogenic. That said, the visit itself is a bit short and underwhelming since you can’t go inside. Still, the ticket doubling as a blessing talisman is very cool and makes for a nice souvenir.

Another must-see temple in Kyoto. The image of this building, with its 2 top floors covered in gold leaf, and appearing to float on the water, is an iconic view in this city. The whole scene is breathtaking, so do not rush your visit here. Walk around the building and see it from different angles. The serenity of this Zen temple will certainly leave an impression on you. Beautiful!

Breakfast, Kaiseki style. This is how Hyotei serves their porridge. Food preparation, presentation, details (food allergy arrangements), service, atmosphere, all perfectly done. We also learn to be patient and wait for porridge to cook. Great food is worth waiting. Highly recommended.

Incredible food, incredible experience. As a whole, this is one of the greatest dining experiences we have had in our lives. 10 course Kaiseki meal in a 450 year old Japanese tea garden. My wife and I had dinner in the main building, reservations can be made online on a rolling basis about 90 days in advance. Smaller breakfast and lunch options are also offered. Having food in a private dining room while watching the sunset in the garden is unforgettable. The food was exquisite, not only was it delicious but you can taste and see the culture of Japan in every bite. All the ingredients are local and seasonal. They have an extensive wine and sake list to accompany your meal, along with tea and water. Definitely grab a reservation here for a once in a lifetime experience.

If you are looking for a traditional Japanese restaurant, in a calm and friendly restaurant in Kyoto, I’d highly recommend checking out Hyotei. The service is impeccable, extremely friendly and original.

We had breakfast in the Annex, and the experience was extraordinary. The food was exceptional—served in several courses with impressive variety. While we chose to skip the optional grilled fish (best for those with a serious appetite), the standard offerings were more than satisfying. The final course—a simple porridge—initially seemed plain, but it turned out to be the most subtle and refined minimalist dish I’ve ever tasted. I still find myself craving it. This is a highly recommended experience for food lovers on a budget—an opportunity to enjoy a meal with the elegance of a three-star restaurant, without the extravagant price tag.

3 Michelin stars? Not a chance. This place was a major letdown! I’ve dined at many 1 and 2 star Michelin restaurants around the world that have been incredible experiences, and this does not come close. I suspect the high rating comes from the 450 year history, gardens on the property, and the unique service, but the food and dining atmosphere were subpar and definitely not deserving of 3 Michelin stars (or even 1)! I left disappointed and out $600 for 2 people. If you’re looking for a high end dinner in Kyoto, look elsewhere.

Date: Jan 2024 We had the loveliest experience here, notwithstanding the harsh comments in google reviews: Some reviewers dont state clearly the amount they spent in Yen Some dishes are really cold appetisers, if they are not, they are covered. Japanese dishes are not piping hot unless its nabe. Reservations issue - much like the furore in other countries over irresponsible diners who cancel on reservations at Michelin star restaurants (not so much about the stars but the staff, the expensive food ingredients, freshly ordered edible flower decor etc), respect the local culture, book via your hotel concierge. No need to headbutt your way in other countries. Make better use of your hotel concierge ahead of time. On a positive note: The hostess was gracious. The private room was quaint. Love the garden setting, we could slide open the door for a beautiful view of a garden, sounds of birds chirping and sounds of water trickling as we dined. The food was delish and beautiful to look at. We booked months ahead via our hotel concierge. A 15,000 yen menu per person. After we left, the owner, an elegant lady in an exquisite kimono bade us farewell at the entrance in the cold, though we cannot communicate, we appreciate her pride in her work. As we walked further away, she remained in her stance and bowed once again. I will remember this wonderful once in a lifetime experience.

Legendary restaurant, traditional Japanese culture as its best. A 400 years old restaurant. The cuisine is good but the service and the settings are even more special. Amazing wines, sakes and non alcoholic beverages. Highly recommended.

The food was so delicious, you can taste the freshness of every ingredient. The food was both unique with ingredients I have never tasted before, but also steeped in tradition. The staff are extremely kind, recommended places for me to hide from the rain before the meal, were so nice in conversation, and even tidied up my umbrella while I ate. They made the delicious food even better. Overall, one of the best meals I have ever had.

Comfortable meal with room for better service Overall, it was a very comfortable meal — nothing particularly surprising in flavor, but everything was well-prepared and easy on the stomach. My favorite was the chicken ramen noodles. The chef was warm and engaging, greeting guests personally and even showcasing his skills at the counter, which created a friendly atmosphere. However, the service could be improved. I ordered hot tea at the beginning, but it was never refilled unless I asked, even during a 2½-hour meal. For a lunch priced $100+, a bit more attentiveness would make the experience truly excellent.

It’s very nice experience to try kaiseki, dish are beautifully presented, it’s a long process for the entire course but interesting to try. And surrounding area is also interesting to walk around and there’s many traditional Japanese shops and in the posh Kyoto neighbourhood

I had the omakase here during crab season and it was truly unforgettable. The grilled crab was amazing, but what really impressed me was the chef’s dashi — made with two different types of bonito. The flavor was incredibly rich yet beautifully lightweight. Even without added salt, it was full of pure umami. That same clean yet deeply flavorful balance carried through every course, giving my taste buds a rich experience without ever feeling heavy. I especially loved the chef’s precision and control over flavor. I also really appreciated how thoughtful the chef was. I can’t eat raw food or drink alcohol for health reasons, and he customized every course for me without compromising the taste or texture. For final rice course, there were five options but one had raw fish so I skipped it. I didn’t expect anything, but the chef still prepared that dish for me and cooked the fish just right, tender and not dry at all. Service was great too — the assistants and staff were super kind, helpful, and welcoming. Left the restaurant feeling happy and well taken care of. Definitely recommend!

The second dish was softshell turtle soup, but I'm allergic to softshell turtle. I asked for another seafood soup instead, they just gave me corn soup... 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄 It's like you walked into a bar, gave him $100 and he handed you a glass of water. 😤😤🙄🙄🙄 This was a very very bad dining experience and the other dishes were also mediocre. I strongly recommend that everyone avoid it.👎👎👎👎👎

We had a very memorable dinner at Kiyama. Each dish had an amazing purity of flavors, with the soup especially standing out. We also loved the atmosphere of the restaurant and Chef Kiyama’s warm hospitality

2nd Visit: September 2025: Eel season! We loved the dashi, hamo shinjo, semi-grilled hamo with plum sauce, Hiraigi Chateuabriand, Tako Tamago don, and Chirimen don! Sake pairing was really fun too! 1st Visit April 2023: We truly enjoyed our dinner at Kiyama. Amazing amazing dashi ! loved each dishes, including the special grilled snow crab dishes and rice dishes! Good selections of Wines here too and for a very reasonable price.

Got a craving for udon? Then you should try here. It is really a traditional Place with awesome flavors. I liked the original favorite with tofu. Really feels like nothing from my home country can make. Sushi is also definitely on point. Overall great experience

Omen (Cold udon noodles with vegetables) is one of our favorite dishes and it seems to be a bit out of fashion. Happy to have found this place which served the same Omen we had 10 years ago. Noodles remain delicious. Dipping sauce and vegetables top quality as well.

Such amazing food! Came here for lunch during the week and it wasn’t terribly busy so I had no wait. When I went in I asked for the vegetarian menu. I had cold udon and vegetable tempura and lotus root chips and eat thing was better than the last. Also great options for meat eaters!

I had the whole wheat udon tempura set, and at 2300 yen you get one large prawn, seaweed, pumpkin, and a lady's finger! The staff here are very nice and friendly, and the toilet is very clean. Furthermore there's o-cha, and it's very fragrant. The udon was soft, but had a nice bite to it, very smooth as well and it seemed to have some yuzu in the udon water which gave it a nice fruitiness. The dipping soup was not too salty, and it came with a tray of vegetables (ginger, spring onion, marinated burdock root, onion, cabbage, mushroom, maple leaf shaped fish cake, and lotus root) which you're supposed to throw into the soup. Every bite of udon came with a little of each vegetable, which meant each bite had a different taste, truly delicious udon!

place was nice and food was good. they serve hot tea with the food. they have both dipping style noodles and your normal udon. place has a toilet

Good spot for udon right across the bridge. If it's hot out I can highly recommend the sudachi citrus and udon. Perfect light lunch to cool off with . The udon traditional broth is also very good especially with a jammy egg. They have vegetarian options too. Couple of beer options and sake including the option to have it served in box. Everyone was friendly, cards accepted and menu in English available.

The udon noodles are refreshing. Great taste with the noodle texture and broth. Small seating area is the downside of this place. Tempura breaded too thick other than this. They havw great udon quality. I love the set choices.

Sat at counter , and all tourists on that seating. Course flow is polished and not too slow or rushed with sake pairing . Owner chef doesn't speak English thou he tries , quite lively and takes his time to engage with each customer. Food is too "safe" for me thou he incorporates ingredients like caviar into his appetizers , also had matsuba crab and bear meat from Niigata. Didn't really have a memorable dish. Price was decent

This place is phenomenal and worth the money you’re going to spend. The food is well crafted in terms of taste, presentation, and look. Each meal felt meticulously crafted, the courses placed in a specific order to ensure each course stood out on its own. The staff was very attentive - checking in at the perfect time and getting the next course to you. They made sure we enjoyed the food, gave us an explanation of each dish and what to expect, and it really enhanced the experience. We had the omakase experience, which made the whole evening feel private and intimate. We got to take our time, got to sit in a quiet room to ourselves and just be present in the moment. This is a highly recommended Michelin Star experience. You should make it part of your trip itinerary and indulge!

Most of the ingredients are fresh, and the octopus can't chew them. Not a great experience. But my first taste of kaiseki cuisine was quite novel.

Visited on 10/31/2025 for lunch. Amazing experience. Upon arrival, you don't need to wait outside like we did. Everyone was waiting for us on the table inside to start the course.

Ate lunch here, what an experience! It's all about the process, enjoy the moment and details from this experience. Due to the budget and price, I can still feel the chef and staff put a lot of efforts to make the lunch set an enjoyable memory and experience, I asked for just a glass of wine for pairing since it's a casual lunch, I got a 1er cru Chablis to match this light and delicate kaiseiki lunch, which was spot on. Great experience and memory!

Some of the best fine dining I’ve had. The lunch was a bit less than two hours and it’s best to arrive on time. Give some time to find the place as it’s tucked at the end of a corridor. The food was incredible! Each dish was elegantly put together. The wait staff were extremely friendly. The presentation was nothing to write home about, and there weren’t any dishes that pushed my comfort zone. But it was very high quality food nonetheless. The highlights for me was the dessert and the wagyu beef course. Overall would definitely recommend as an intro to fine dining.

This place is true gastronomic tasting place. The Kaiseki meal set by the chef is truly amazing. Each plate is meticulously prepared and tastes delicious. The platting is visually stunning. The ambiance is very cozy and the Chef at the counter engages with the customers. Note that photos/videos are not allowed but if only photos of the dishes, Chef said ok. This places deserves likes 3 ⭐️!

I want to first start off by complimenting our wonderful chef! Watanabe Tomoharu definitely made our experience at Mouriya memorable. He prepared our food with extreme care, presented it well and he waited for us to finish parts of our dish before adding more so the food was always fresh and hot. He also made suggestions of which condiment complimented the beef and vegetables best. He worked with a smile on his face, hummed to himself a little, and it seemed like he really enjoyed his work. At some point I just watched him cook because it was a pleasure. Definitely 5 stars!! 11/10!! The atmosphere of the restaurant was not spectacular but it was relaxing. We ordered the Mouriya select sirloin and fillet steaks. We plan on going to one of the Kobe branches to try the Kobe beef cuts so wanted to try the select cuts in Kyoto. The beef was cooked to perfection, the fillet tasted much better than the sirloin, the starter pumpkin soup was delicious and the fried vegetables were lovely, the sweet potato was especially exquisite. Dessert was more of a pallet cleanser with some fruit and yuzu sorbet but I was very happy they presented a birthday plate for my sister which included a bit of tiramisu and a whole shine muscat instead of half. However for the overall experience, it was a 4. We arrived as soon as it opened and the waiter at the door was not welcoming at all. He was curt, didn’t smile and just seemed like he didn’t want to be there or started the morning on a bad note. I was worried that unwelcoming customer service would be the standard of the restaurant as first impressions count and commented quickly on the lack of welcome to my sister. Additionally, my sister ordered Rosé and the same waiter poured a little into the glass, about a quarter (picture included). Thinking again that this was the restaurant’s standard (even though we both knew he should have poured up to half a glass of not just under from experience of wine serving), we didn’t say anything but noticed that another customer that had arrived later and had also ordered Rosé received a half full glass poured by a different waiter. After that, maybe sensing we had commented on his attitude, the later happy reactions from him felt forced and insincere. From that first impression, we could not honestly give the restaurant 5 stars. The other waitress serving us was lovely, welcoming and very kind. Had she been the one who has greeted us at the door, we would have had a better first impression and overall experience.

This was a slightly casual yet refined teppanyaki style steak house serving some of the finest Kobe beef. I dined alone and was able to get a counter seat without a reservation. I had the 200g first choice ribeye with vegetables and a small appetizer prepared skillfully before my eyes. The chef was kind, friendly, polite, and called me by name which was a real treat while traveling solo through Japan .. I felt at home! The food was absolutely delicious, the steak was mouth watering and melted in my mouth. The chef suggested delightful ways to combine the accoutrements giving each bite a wonderful and unique flavor. Uuuuuumami!!!

If you're looking for a truly special dining experience, Kobe Wagyu Steak Mouriya is a must-visit. What sets this place apart is the personalized service: one highly skilled chef dedicated to just our party, cooking everything right in front of us. It felt like a private show, and every moment was mesmerizing. The star of the evening, of course, was the Kobe wagyu — melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Each bite was rich, buttery, and bursting with flavor. The chef’s precision and passion were evident in every dish, and he explained each step with warmth and expertise. This isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience. Perfect for special occasions or anyone who appreciates top-tier beef and impeccable service. Can’t wait to return!

Absolutely superb experience! The staff were friendly and inviting. Stared with a warm pumpkin soup, followed by a crisp and refreshing mixed salad. Then on to the star of the show. The A5 Kobe beef. I’ve had a lot of Wagyu in the US but never have I had anything like the Kobe beef they served us here. Omg Absolute butter in your mouth, just melted as you chewed.

Amazing experience! Chef Unar delivered an exceptional private dining service professional, attentive, and kind. The steak was perfectly cooked and incredibly delicious. I I never eat medium rare, but with the chef recommendation I tried and it was perfect.

My fiancé and I just had one of the best meals of our lives here. The manager Masato Katsuyama was extremely professional and kind. We sat down and had some drinks. I had a Sake and a beer, my fiancé had champagne and a mimosa - all of them were great. Meanwhile our chef Tomohiro Hamano came out and prepared our food in front of us and explained all the dishes to us. The fish appetizer was some of the best fish I’ve ever had. Then the Kobe beef came out (I got the 150g A5) and it was picture-perfect. Tomohiro cooked it meticulously. I highly recommend putting some wasabi + salt on it, it paired perfectly. Arigato, we will be back next time we’re in Kyoto!

Staff and cheff were excellent all the way around. Every bite of food was excellent. From the appetizer course to dessert, and of course the star of the show, the Kobe Beef,I fully enjoyed our dining experience.