Kuruma-Honmachi Things to Do

Osaka is one of the more Americanized places in Japan—where else can you find a place called Ame-mura (American Village). Or Abeno Soho, for that matter. This Soho is in some ways like its counterpart in New York: artsy and boh... more

This bar has been the Osaka specialty in bourbon for more than 30 years now. The long wooden counter is lined with 500 bottles of mostly bourbon, though selections of whisky and other fine liquors are on hand as well. Although... more

Situated just below a love hotel, Whoopee's is a favorite with Kyoto's young tribes of music fans. Whoopee's doubles as a club and as a venue for live bands. The bands you might expect to see here are of all descriptions, mostl... more

Unlike its sister cafe-bar, Speakeasy Diner, the emphasis here is more on drinking than dining. Various food items are available, however. A youngish crowd likes to gather here for the pool table and the pop music. Approximatel... more

The River Oriental, situated right on the Kamo River, south of Shijo on Kiyamachi, is an impressive new development combining the best of old and new. The stunning three-story construction consists of a complete refurbishment o... more

Kyoto hosts a veritable shrine to contemporary British pop icon Paul Weller through his Jam, Style Council and solo incarnations. Guests can sit at the bar or on comfortable sofas facing the video screen and a strategically-pla... more

This is a small, cozy and incredibly good value Brazilian bar in north Kyoto. You may have difficulty finding elbowroom as the place seats about 15 people with a squeeze, but the menu seems to cover just about everything. The M... more

Pub Africa is a long-standing institution of a bar here in Kyoto. It was one of the first downtown places where foreign residents met on a regular basis. The atmosphere here is brilliant with people of all ages having a good ti... more

Kiyomizudera which translates as the "Temple of Pure Water," is a popular temple with young people who come to pray for success in finding a suitable partner at a Shinto shrine inside the complex. Built in 798 and set in an his... more

 Real Travelers who've been here

globalchoirboy said

….  But they rejected me.  So I quickly recovered and took off for the Nijo castle only to find it was rejecting me… continue reading »