What is Kawadoko?
Kawadoko is said to have started in the late Momoyama Period (1583-1600) when affluent citizens would erect small decks and sit along the sandbars and shallows of the Kamogawa River to greet visitors as they arrived.
The historic shops of Kamogawa Noryoyuka between the areas of Nijo and Gojo illuminate the river with their lights, creating a delightful atmosphere.
Kibune Kawadoko, which started during the Taisho Period (1912-1926), makes it possible to enjoy the murmurs of the river from just above its surface, and Takao Kawadoko allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains.
Each deck provides a unique experience of the outstanding natural beauty of Kyoto.
Kibune, an hour north by car of Kyoto Station, is surrounded by the mountains situated around the headwaters (the Kibune River) of the Kamo River running through the city of Kyoto.
Restaurants in Kibune offer kaiseki courses filled with ayu, daggertooth pike conger, red-spotted masu trout, and fresh Kyoto vegetables while you sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Kibune River with the enchanting songs of cicadas in the distance during the day and the chirping of crickets playing in the grass at night.
The low-set tables sit above the riverbank giving a comfortable cool breeze on a hot summer day. Create your own unforgettable summer memories in Kyoto.
Although Kibune is located within the boundaries of Kyoto City, it is set in a secluded spot away from the bustling city so make sure to allow enough time to reach here.
* Should the conditions not be favorable for al fresco dining, such as during periods of rain or high tide, dining will take place indoors.
Although the Kawadoko style of dining is particular to Kibune, a similar dining experience can be enjoyed in Kyoto City.
Kamogawa Noryoyuka is a specially made wooden room set outdoors above a riverbank where you can enjoy your meal while refreshed by breeze from the river and the sound of the water rippling beneath.
The beautiful backdrop of an almost infinite series of swaying lanterns reflecting on the surface of the river from Nijo to Gojo can only be described as poetic.
Located within the city center, the restaurants are not limited to only Kyoto cuisine or kaiseki courses. A whole host of food can be enjoyed at Kamogawa Noryoyuka.
Conveniently located along the Kamo River, it is easily accessible using the Keihan Line, Hankyu Line, subway and bus services.
These restaurants are suitably located making it possible to just drop by after visiting Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion Temple) and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
* Should the conditions not be favorable for al fresco dining, such as during periods of rain or high tide, dining will take place indoors.