By day, Kyoto enchants its visitors with its timeless temples, grand shrines, and tranquil zen gardens. But as dusk falls, the city transforms, offering a myriad of activities and culinary delights that provide a deeper insight into the city’s rich culture and heritage. As you begin to plan your trip to Kyoto, we invite you to discover our curated guide for the top evening experiences in this charming city.

Enjoy a Night Tea Ceremony at Kodaiji Temple

From September 8th to 30th, 2023, every Friday through Sunday, the historic Kodaiji Temple invites you to its Autumn Moon-Viewing Tea Party. This serene tea ceremony offers both locals and travelers an intimate glimpse into the temple’s history, paired with the mesmerizing allure of the moon and the comfort of traditional tea. Founded by Nene in memory of her beloved husband, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the temple boasts opulent interiors and is nestled amidst serene zen gardens. Two teahouses on the premises, crafted by the renowned tea master Sen no Rikyu, pay homage to Hideyoshi’s profound appreciation for the tea ceremony.

Please note that reservations are a prerequisite. Ensure you book at least a day prior to guarantee your spot. 

Experiencing the Arashiyama Ukai, a Time-honoured Tradition

From July 1st to September 23rd, Arashiyama hosts the Arashiyama Ukai, where a traditional fishing technique employing trained cormorants, known as ‘Ukai’ to capture river fish is performed.
Ukai originates in the Heian period and relies on wooden boats with large fires. Cormorants plunge into the water to catch fish, including freshwater trout, swallowing them whole and storing them in their throats.

Travellers can join an Ukai cruise to witness this ancient practice. For a unique experience, consider a dinner cruise on a chartered boat, with four dinner sets available for private enjoyment by tourists and locals alike.

Exploring Kyoto’s Nightlife: A Journey with UE.Kyoto and Stars’n Cacio

In September, the evenings gradually become cooler, creating the perfect weather for enjoying drinks outdoors.

Your search starts at Stars’n Cacio, nestled in the vibrant Teramachi shopping district. Pioneered by the acclaimed Italian chef Andrea Ferrero, this contemporary eatery offers a diverse menu ranging from wines and cocktails to delectable brunch options and a fusion of Italian and American dishes. Choose individual meals or shared courses, and savour the fresh, daily-prepared dishes. The warm ambience and cordial staff, coupled with the nice seats outside and a variety of cocktails, make it an ideal spot for memorable evenings with friends or family. Plus, if you’re staying at Miru Kyoto Nishiki, a short 3-minute walk will land you right at their doorstep.

For those lodged at Miru Kyoto Gion, elevate your evening at UE.Kyoto. This rooftop gem, located just a minute away atop the Y Gion building, affords breathtaking views of Kyoto with the tranquil Kamo River as its backdrop. Having opened in July 2023, it has swiftly gained a reputation for its eclectic beverage selection of classic cocktails and inventive mixes paired with a curated food menu. The refreshing rooftop breeze and vibrant atmosphere make UE.Kyoto an ideal spot to relax after a day’s exploration or to strike up conversations with fellow travellers.

As you explore the depth of cultural immersion and delve into Kyoto’s vibrant customs, these evening activities are a must-add to your itinerary. A quintessential Kyoto evening resonates with flavoursome food, invigorating drinks, the soft touch of a cool breeze, and awe-inspiring views. If you’re looking for more suggestions for Kyoto evening activities, visit our front desk staff to assist in curating your Kyoto travel plans.