As an iconic Buddhist Temple in Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is situated on top of Mount Otowa, boasting an unobstructed view over Kyoto. That being said, a long morning unveiling all these historical significance and details may likely have worn you out by noon.
Looking for a quick “glow-up” after a visit to the Kiyomizu-dera Temple? You’re at the right place!
From house-made soba to creamy matcha soft serve, from latte art to pickles buffet, this handy checklist ticks all the boxes!
Keep this checklist in mind and you’ll soon find a perfect rest stop to spruce up your taste buds.
More on that below!
Tofu and Yuba At Okabeya
Two minutes west of the Kiyomizu-dera Niomon Gate, Okabeya offers a fresh breeze to your palate with its light, silky smooth tofu. Going strong since 1839, Okabeya specializes in everything tofu-related but the biggest thrill here is yuba, a soft, thinly crafted layer made out of boiling soy milk, boasting a delicate flavor.
The best thing about Okabeya Yuba is that they let you make your own. Imagine a hotpot style that you get to cook your own by adding a vegetarian agent into the boiling milk and waiting for the tofu skin to form.
If you come in a group, make sure to ask for a serving of house-made tofu served warm on a hot plate. You’ll find a set of side dishes for the pairing, including pickles, tempura, egg custard, and zesty orange vinegar.
Address: 2 Chome-239 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862
Matcha Treats At Kyo-Baum Kiyomizu
Perched on the scenic slope leading to Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Kyo-Baum Kiyomizu is a haven for matcha enthusiasts. This modern, minimalist-chic shop offers a delightful array of matcha treats, including creamy ice cream and fluffy sponge cakes.
At the Kiyomizuzaka store, you can savor these desserts on-site. Indulge in their signature soy milk ice cream, a smooth blend of matcha and soy milk, topped with a crispy Yatsuhashi mochi that doubles as a spoon.
Don’t miss the matcha Baumkuchen stick, perfectly balanced in sweetness and rich in flavor! For a refreshing drink, try their green tea latte with tapioca, which combines the perfect mix of milk and tea, topped with light whipped cream.
Kyo-Baum Kiyomizu is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy exquisite matcha delights in a serene setting.
Address: 2 Chome-229 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862
Tempura and Soba At Ukiya
Ramen is great, but if you’re seeking a unique touch on the daily grind, try soba! Served either hot or cold, Ukiya’s hand-made soba is divine quality. If you’re new, they have an English guideline that’s super amazing. It shows you step-by-step instructions on how to craft a perfect soba dish on your own.
When in doubt, go for the set! I got the Ebi Ten Jyu that comes with a serving of crispy shrimp tempura, a huge plate of soba, a small miso soup, pickles, and rice. I wish the shrimp tempura was a little bigger so I won’t be missing it still. The shrimp was super fresh and chewy, wrapped in a nutty, brilliant coating.
Little did I know that the brand dates back as far as 1929, and it nailed the low-key heritage feel with its warm, intimate wood setup.
Address: Japan, 〒604-8002 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Ishiyacho, 125
Rice Dumplings At Fujinami
About five minutes away on foot, Fujinami is a perfect stopover for a break to rest your tired cores or after a long discovery at the shrine.
Locally known as mitarashi dango, the rich, chewy rice balls are skewed in groups of four to five as an offering to the Gods. Now making a tasty snack on the go, it’s usually splashed with salty and mildly sweet glazed soy sauce – the traditional flavor. Alternatively, go for matcha dango if you wish to have a fresh spin on the palate.
Keep in mind that Fujinami is a small store that’s not meant for long seating. There are a few benches inside but the crowds fill up fast.
Address: 338 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862
Pickles Buffet At Akoya-chaya
If it’s time for lunch and you’re yet to find the right place, consider Akoya-chaya, a traditional tea house where a vegetarian-friendly buffet beckons crowds on any given sunny day.
The proximity to Kiyomizu-Dera Temple six minutes by foot means lunch hours are packed with big foodies who know the real deal of Kyoto pickles.
Also known as Tsukemono, a standard buffet at Akoya comes with 20 varieties of pickles in all colors. From cucumber and eggplant to turnips and kelp, you name it!
But that’s not all, pickles are served over rice – and none of them has a time limit! All you need to do is skillfully master your chopsticks skill by picking chopped pickles on top of rice and enjoy until you get full.
Address: 3 Chome-343 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862
Matcha Lemon Cheesecake At TEN Café
Craving some sweet treats, TEN Cafe is a haven for any weary travelers to fix their sweet tooth! A short three-minute walk from the temple, TEN Cafe has been taking Kyoto by storm with its signature matcha lemon cheesecake.
Beautifully present on a red lacquer plate, the jiggly cheesecake is thick and creamy which is perfect to wash down with some iced milk tea or yuzu hot tea when it’s cold out there.
Address: 2 Chome-208-10 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862
Latte At % ARABICA Kyoto Arashiyama
A tad further afield, % ARABICA is over an hour by bus from the temple, offering a quaint respite that looks over the river of Katsura. Dubbed as Kyoto’s most famous coffee shop, it’s barely close to spacious but that doesn’t really matter when you can snag a cup and chill out by the river bank for a relaxing afternoon.
The menu is simple and carefully curated, % ARABICA focuses on specialty drinks with Kyoto Latte being a proud signature. If your palate is not after a sweet drink, this will be your next favorite drink to wake up to, creamy – with a balanced bitterness.
Address: 3-47 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8385.
Kyoto is no short of great food spots but if you’re not a local, finding the right restaurant near you that’s worth trying and not overly expensive is not an easy task! Save this handy list for your next adventure!
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