Kakyo
Good to know before you go
- Getting there
- Higashiyama Station · 5 min walk (Kyoto Municipal Subway Tōzai Line)
- Hours
- Lunch 12:00–15:00 (L.O. 13:30), Dinner 18:00–22:30 (L.O. 20:00); irregular closures
- Time needed
- 1.5–2.5 hours
Hours can change on holidays — check the official site before travelling.
About
Tucked away in Higashiyama, Kakyo is an intimate culinary gem where traditional Japanese ingredients meet French culinary artistry. Guests can watch the chefs work their magic in an open kitchen, crafting beautifully plated, innovative dishes that celebrate local flavors. It is the perfect spot for food lovers seeking an elegant, artistic dining experience that bridges East and West.
What Japanese guides note
Kakyo operates on an advance-reservation omakase course format for both lunch and dinner services. Situated along Sanjō-dōri east of Jingū-michi, the venue sits a short walk from Awata Shrine, Shōren-in Monzeki, and the Okazaki museum district. Chef Chujo consults guests individually at service start to calibrate drink quantities and pairing preferences to each party.
Details from local sources
- Owner-chef Tomohito Chujo qualified as a Kikizakeshi sake sommelier in 1997, earned Senior Sommelier certification in 2012, and passed Grade 2 of the Kyoto Expert Certification in 2010. [source]
- The restaurant name Kakyo originates from the classical Noh theater treatise written approximately 600 years ago by Zeami, drawing inspiration from the principle of never forgetting one's original beginner spirit. [source]
- The dining floor contains seven counter seats and two tables accommodating up to 14 guests, with private buyouts available for parties of 10 or more adults. [source]
- In addition to full-pour wine and sake courses of 5 to 8 glasses, Kakyo provides half-size alcohol pairings and a 5-to-6-glass non-alcoholic pairing option. [source]
Insider Tip
With only a few seats around the open kitchen counter, booking several weeks in advance is essential to secure a spot.
Frequently asked
Are group buyouts or large parties accepted at Kakyo?
Yes. While regular seatings handle individual reservations, private full-room buyouts are accepted for groups of 10 or more adults. The venue is equipped with seven counter seats and two table arrangements supporting up to 14 diners, requiring advance coordination with the restaurant.
Does Kakyo serve non-alcoholic beverage pairings?
Yes. Kakyo provides a dedicated non-alcoholic pairing menu featuring 5 to 6 glasses priced between ¥4,000 and ¥5,000. The offerings include homemade botanical juices and specialty tea blends crafted by the sommelier chef to match the distinct textures of each seasonal dish.
How do I reach Kakyo by train?
Take the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tōzai Line to Higashiyama Station. From Exit 1 or 2, walk eastward along Sanjō-dōri past the Sanjō Jingū-michi intersection for about 5 minutes. The restaurant is situated on the ground floor of the Schilf Jingūmichi building.
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