Katsura

Katsura's nightlife shows a completely different face from the tourist-packed Gion or Kawaramachi. Snack bar signs flicker in residential alleyways. Regulars sit at the counter, sipping drinks and chatting with the mama. It's not flashy, but it's Kyoto's everyday night scene.

Katsura centers around Hankyu Kyoto Line's Katsura Station. A small shopping street runs in front of the station, and night spots are scattered in the residential areas just off it. About 15 minutes by train from Kyoto Station, far from tourist spots, so visitors are mostly locals.

The nightlife here is mainly snack bars and girls bars. Snack bars have karaoke and cost around ¥3,000–5,000 per hour. Girls bars are more casual, ¥2,000–4,000. There are almost no kyabakura or host clubs, and no concept cafes. It's a down-to-earth adult social scene.

There aren't many shops, but each has its own character. Snack bars are all about the mama's personality. Even first-timers get a friendly "Are you alone? Come on in." Girls bars have younger staff and are relatively welcoming to tourists.

Access is walking distance from Hankyu Katsura Station. With your back to the station rotary, head west to find the snack bar street. Active early (8 PM–11 PM), quiet after midnight. Fridays and Saturdays are best.

Note that English is rarely spoken. Even without Japanese, a smile and gestures go a long way, but expect only Japanese menus. Also, since it's a residential area, keep noise down late at night.