Fresco is a Kyoto-born supermarket with over 70 locations throughout the prefecture. The Higashiyama Yasui store is located conveniently for tourists between Gion and Kiyomizudera Temple, and is open 24 hours. You’ll find Kyoto-made sake, matcha (green tea) sweets and more just inside the entrance. Use your time wisely by concentrating on sightseeing during the day and picking up souvenirs here later! There are also plenty of deli foods on offer and a money exchange machine in store.

Address

A ten-minute walk from Gion Shijō station on the Keihan Main line

Open

24 hours a day, every day

Kyoto is the second-biggest producer of sake by volume in Japan. The Fushimi district is the center of production, and this is where Fushimi Sakagura Kōji is located. The bar, Sakagura, offers sake from local breweries to taste with food from eight restaurants in the complex, including sushi and ramen. The complex uses an ingenious system whereby the restaurants take orders for each other’s food. We recommend the tasting set of sake from 18 breweries in Fushimi for an overview that includes fruity aperitifs through to full bodied brews that go with meat dishes, and even vintage sake. Enjoy a variety of pairings with your food. 

Address

A four-minute walk from Fushimi Momoyama station on the Keihan Main line

Open

Sakagura 11:30 am – 11 pm (last orders at 10:30pm) *Business hours of other bars and eateries vary

Closed

Tuesday (or the following day if it is a national holiday)

Just as England has its traditional pubs, Japan has a long tradition of standing bars. As the premises are typically shoebox sized, it’s not unusual for patrons to strike up a conversation over a drink with the person next to them. Shomin just near Omiya station is the perfect place to experience Japan’s standing bar culture. Friendly staff and plenty of snacks for 100 yen a plate ensure that Shomin buzzes all day from opening time at 11 am through to closing. Don’t miss the fresh sashimi and sushi.

Address

A one-minute walk from Ōmiya station on the Hankyu Kyoto line

Open

11 am – 11 pm (last orders at 10:45 pm)

Closed

Wednesday