The 3 Best Evening Sake Sessions in Japan

1.Gion Evening Walk with Hidden Gems, Geisha & Sake

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 41 reviews · 1h 30m · from $32Our pick

Join an English-speaking guide, often Shumpei or Nick, for a 90-minute walk through Gion after dark. You’ll see Hanamikoji Street, Yasui Kompira-gū Shrine, Yasaka Pagoda, Ninenzaka, and Yasaka Shrine, with local sake, photo help, and plenty of time for questions. Groups are limited to 10 people.

“The Tour was amazing. Many new things I learned about Kyoto and the guide was very friendly and supportive.”

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2.3.5h Osaka Night guided Local Bar Hopping, Sake & Karaoke

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 27 reviews · 3h 30m · from $40

Meet a local English-speaking guide at Namba Station for a 3.5-hour evening of izakaya food, sake tasting, Hozenji Temple, street snacks, and karaoke. Guides such as Ryoko and Yoko lead groups of up to 10, explain Osaka customs, take photos, and finish the night with a small Japanese souvenir.

“We joined this bar hopping tour during our stay in Osaka and had such a great time. The guide was incredibly friendly and shared lots of interesting stories about the area, the food, and the local drinking culture. She was very kind and made everyone feel comfortable right away. After the tour ended, we still wanted to keep exploring, and she took the time to recommend some great bars for us to visit on our own. Thanks to her suggestions, we had an even better night. It was a fantastic experience and I would definitely recommend this tour.”

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3.Foodie Night Tour in Gion with 9 dishes + 6 Sake

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 26 reviews · 3h 30m · from $361

Spend 210 minutes walking Gion and Pontocho with an English-speaking MagicalTrip guide, tasting nine Kyoto dishes, two drinks, and six local sake samples. You may try obanzai, oden, yuba, and a Kyoto dessert in traditional restaurants and cafes. Ask in advance about dietary needs, and bring cash for extras.

“Rika was an excellent tour guide, who facilitated great conversations between us all. The food spots also felt local and authentic.”

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