Kyoto is one of Japan's most revered cities and served as the capital for over a thousand years starting in 794 AD. After the capital moved to Tokyo, the city began to modernize. However, Kyoto has preserved much of its rich history, culture, architecture, and crafts. Among its many historical sites, Nijo Castle is one of the most renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Nijo Castle was built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period, to protect the Kyoto Imperial Palace and to serve as his residence when visiting the city. Here, you can see the splendor of Momoyama culture, which flourished for over 400 years. Nijo Castle stands as a valuable cultural asset, witnessing the rise and fall of the Tokugawa family and Japan's long history.

Inside Nijo Castle, you'll find several beautiful gardens that change with the seasons. A special highlight is the fall foliage from mid-November to early December. The castle grounds are home to a variety of deciduous trees, including cherry blossoms, maples, ginkgoes, and azaleas, which transform into vibrant shades of red and orange during leaf viewing season, creating a breathtaking backdrop against the ancient castle. If you want to learn more about Nijo Castle's history, feel free to check out the following article!

There are also plenty of dining options near historically rich and picturesque Nijo Castle. After soaking in all that history and culture, embarking on a food journey in the castle area is a fantastic idea. Here, LIVE JAPAN will guide you through the must-try foods around Nijo Castle. After exploring the castle, you're sure to be hungry! By checking out the following recommendations and making reservations in advance, you can save time on choosing a restaurant, giving you more opportunities to enrich your next adventure!

When you're in the Kansai region, you absolutely have to try kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and okonomiyaki! Okonomiyaki, also known as "Japanese pancakes," has a name that means "as you like it." True to its name, okonomiyaki is customizable with various ingredients mixed into a batter of flour and water, which is then grilled on a griddle. You can add just about anything you can think of — meat, seafood, kimchi, cheese, and more — turning it into a uniquely delicious dish.

Kushikatsu is another Kansai must-try, that's super convenient to eat on the go and is very popular among foreign tourists. However, there's an important rule to follow when enjoying kushikatsu: "no double-dipping in the sauce!" If you want more sauce, you must scoop it with the accompanying cabbage and drizzle it over your skewers.

In the Nijo Castle area, there are plenty of great restaurants for okonomiyaki and kushikatsu. After admiring the beautiful autumn leaves at the castle, don't forget to treat yourself to these delicious dishes and experience the charm of Kansai. Without further ado, let's check out our recommended restaurants!

Oknonmiyaki & Teppanyaki NakaNaka has been a beloved spot for locals for over 20 years. Their signature dish, the NakaNaka-yaki, features a delectable mix of Omi wagyu offal and Kuroge wagyu beef tendon, allowing you to fully savor the exquisite flavors of Japanese beef. When you're in Japan, you definitely don't want to miss out on wagyu!

What sets NakaNaka's okonomiyaki apart is the unique Kyoto-style batter made with special broth and carefully selected cabbage, creating a sweet and savory combo that will have you coming back for more.

In addition to okonomiyaki, they also offer yakisoba and a variety of teppanyaki dishes, all of which are incredibly tempting just looking at the menu. When you come here, you really need to be ready to indulge!

The restaurant features sunken seating (horigotatsu), adding to the charming Japanese atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with family or friends.

Hana Tanuki is a well-regarded okonomiyaki and teppanyaki restaurant filled with nostalgic Japanese charm. They use fresh seasonal ingredients, carefully selected cabbage, and large pieces of pork fat, all grilled patiently over low heat. Topped with fresh scallions and a raw egg, their okonomiyaki is truly delightful. The scallions used here, known as "Kyoto Kujo Negi," originated in the Kujo area of Kyoto during the Edo period and are recognized by Kyoto Prefecture as a "traditional vegetable of Kyoto."

At Hana Tanuki, you can enjoy a variety of dishes that showcase meticulously sourced Kyoto ingredients, making it essential to savor the authentic flavors of the region when you visit. They also offer an all-you-can-eat menu, so if you're confident in your appetite, be sure not to miss it!

Kushibar Kushiko is beloved among locals and is known for its crispy deep-fried skewers made from seasonal ingredients. While delicious kushikatsu can be found throughout Japan, what sets Kushiko apart is the ability to enjoy a variety of red and white wines at the same price. Pairing skewers with wine offers a unique experience!

The cozy, down-to-earth atmosphere features only counter seating. Just a heads up: it's a bit of a walk from the station, so taking a taxi or the Kyoto bus is recommended. Get off at the "Senbon Imadegawa" bus stop and it's about a 5-minute walk from there.

Many travelers come to Japan specifically to savor authentic Japanese barbecue and teppanyaki. Yakiniku refers to grilled meat dishes, and the style we see today emerged in post-war Japan, influenced by Korean barbecue. Teppanyaki involves grilling a variety of ingredients like meat, seafood, and vegetables on a hot plate, and includes dishes like okonomiyaki.

Teppanyaki Nijo is conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from the ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto hotel on the basement level, making it very accessible. The restaurant boasts a luxurious decor with both counter and tables seating available. Watching the skilled chefs perform their culinary show right in front of you is truly a treat!

The menu focuses on premium Omi beef, fresh seafood, and seasonal Kyoto vegetables, with the chefs showcasing their expertise to create a lavish dining experience. It's perfect for special occasions or romantic dates. The restaurant is quite popular during lunch hours as well!

Kyo-no Yakinikudokoro Renzo is a charming restaurant that has transformed a historic Kyo-machiya building over a hundred years old, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. It features counter seating, semi-private rooms, and private dining options, making it ideal for large groups. The menu contains over 20 unique dishes, featuring A4 grade and Kuroge wagyu for raw preparations and various rare cuts for grilling.

Another highlight is the beautiful tableware and plating used in the restaurant, including colorful Kutani pottery and the eye-catching "Yakiniku Platter" arranged in a tiered style. Each detail showcases a delightful blend of visual and culinary enjoyment, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to quality dining.

Matsusaka Beef What's is just a 4-minute walk from Kyoto's Karasuma Oike subway station, where you can indulge in premium beef within a charming, historic Kyo-machiya setting. The highlight of this restaurant is that they purchase an entire Matsusaka cow, allowing them to serve a wide range of delicious dishes, including many rare cuts.

We highly recommend trying the comparative tasting of Japan's top three wagyu varieties: Matsusaka beef, Kobe beef, and Omi beef! The restaurant also offers a variety of private dining rooms, making it perfect for gatherings, dates, or anniversaries. The largest room can accommodate up to 10 guests and features a beautiful garden view. With its antique decor paired with an exquisite Matsusaka beef dining experience, how could anyone resist?

Japan is famous as a culinary paradise, captivating visitors from around the world with its diverse range of dishes. But it's not just the savory foods that shine — Japanese desserts are equally popular! In historical Kyoto, you can find everything from traditional sweets to Western-style cakes, perfectly complemented by delicious matcha or coffee.

Here are some popular cake shops and cafés in the Nijo Castle area with unique desserts you can't miss!

Cheese lovers, this one's for you! PAPA Jon's, a cheesecake specialty shop, offers over 30 varieties of cheesecake that rotate daily, providing an impressive selection. Originating in 1985 as a dessert in a small restaurant by a New York native, the cheesecakes quickly gained popularity for their delicious taste and authentic American style. In 1990, PAPA Jon's was established, attracting fans from all over the country.

Prices start at 594 yen, so after enjoying the stunning views of Nijo Castle, why not treat yourself to some famous Kyoto cheesecake? You definitely won't want to miss out on PAPA Jon's!

Japan's Ogawa Seiyaku is well-known for its natural organic foods, healthy teas, and bath products. Its subsidiary, Eisei Co., Ltd., opened the new natural wellness complex, Kyoto Ogawa Seiyaku, on April 6, 2024, near Nijo Castle on the Tozai Line. This three-story facility features:

1st Floor: Drink - Kyoto Ogawa Seiyaku Café
2nd Floor: Eat - Kyoto Ogawa Seiyaku Restaurant
3rd Floor: Stay - Kyoto Ogawa Seiyaku Villa

We recommend the café on the first floor, which offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy healthy teas paired with delightful sweets. The café has 38 seats and features a courtyard where you can soak up the sunshine.

Savor healthy teas and treats made from high-quality herbal ingredients, thanks to nearly a century of experience in herbal medicine. This expertise allows the café to create new taste experiences through specific tea and dessert pairings. If you're unfamiliar with herbal medicine, just take a look at their menu: it includes offerings like domestically sourced organic burdock tea paired with ginger and soy milk pudding. Just hearing about these ingredients feels healthy!

Next up is another famous spot, Sweets Cafe KYOTO KEIZO, located in the Sanjo shopping district. This café has been featured on Japanese TV multiple times and is adored by locals and tourists alike. What draws in sweet lovers is their signature Mont Blanc, which has a 10-minute shelf life (so it's best enjoyed fresh!).

In addition to the café, there's also a takeout shop called KYOTO KEIZO OKASHI nearby, along with a bakery that sells bread and desserts, KYOTO KEIZO BAKERY. All three locations are close to each other, so why not check them all out!

The menu offers a variety of options, including dishes like omurice, other main courses, cakes, and drinks, all available as set meals. The café itself is housed in a beautifully renovated traditional house, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that pairs perfectly with their delicious sweets. This is definitely a must-visit experience when you're in Kyoto!

Just a short walk from Nijo Castle, you'll find Nijojo Furuta, a Michelin-starred restaurant. Here, the chef showcases a keen eye for seasonal, top-quality ingredients. One highlight of the meal is a special rice dish made with locally sourced Omi rice, served as the final course. The restaurant's interior features traditional Kyoto earthen walls and atmospheric counter seating, creating a serene yet historic ambiance. Diners can enjoy the sounds of cooking and the enticing aromas that fill the space, making for a sensory experience that delights not just the palate but all five senses.

Located about a 15-minute ride from Nijo Castle, Kitano Tenmangu Niko To Niwa Matsuo is a must for anyone craving authentic Japanese black wagyu steak. Despite the slight distance, this restaurant is highly recommended. The signature steak bento comes with a variety of side dishes made from local Kyoto ingredients, as well as a selection of local sake and other beverages that will surely impress. The exterior is beautifully transformed from a traditional Kyoto town house, and the serene interior offers counter seating with views of a charming courtyard. Both the dishes and the decor promise to enhance your Kyoto experience after a visit to Nijo Castle.

Kyoto has long been a top destination, thanks to its rich historical heritage and charming old streets, paired with unique local cuisine that attracts many visitors each year. Among its many attractions, Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features around 300 cherry blossom trees of 50 different varieties, making it a must-visit spot for cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing.

The culinary offerings in the Nijo Castle area are also abundant, and each restaurant mentioned above is an excellent choice for continuing your authentic Kyoto experience after visiting the castle. Don't forget to make reservations in advance to save time and ensure your journey is as smooth and fulfilling as possible!

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