Tabelog ratingLocated on the 4th floor of The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu, K36 offers what many consider one of the best panoramic views in Kyoto. From its rooftop terrace, guests get a near eye-level perspective of the Yasaka Pagoda and a 360-degree cityscape that is particularly breathtaking at sunset. The hotel itself, a converted school, adds to the unique visual experience.
Reviewers consistently praise the view as the main attraction. The bar's photogenic cocktails, like the signature K36 Gin Tonic, are also frequently highlighted, alongside food items such as truffle fries, quattro formaggi pizza, and burrata with prosciutto. Some guests also note the attentive, hotel-style service and luxurious afternoon tea offerings.
However, the experience is not without its drawbacks. Many visitors mention the mandatory ¥1,100 cover charge per person, plus a 10% service fee, which makes for a pricey visit. Other common complaints include inconsistent cocktail quality, slow service, and the fact that a seat with a good view is not guaranteed. While not a majority opinion, a recurring number of foreign visitors have reported instances of rude or inattentive staff.
Expect to spend around ¥4,000–¥4,999 for a lunch-timed visit and ¥6,000–¥7,999 for dinner. Reviewers recently paid ¥1,650 for cocktails like the K36 Gin Tonic and ¥2,420 for a Quattro Formaggi pizza. A dish of burrata and prosciutto was reported at ¥2,750. Given the high prices and variable service, K36 is best considered a destination for a special occasion where the view is the priority, rather than a top-tier cocktail or dining experience.
- Booking: Walk-ins are standard, and reservations for seats only are not accepted unless you commit to a minimum spend of ¥25,000 per person. Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset to secure a spot, as queues are common.
- Getting There: The bar is on the 4th floor of The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu in Higashiyama. It's a 15-minute taxi ride from Kyoto Station or a 20-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station. The 'Kiyomizu-michi' city bus stop is a 5-minute walk away.
- Charges: A cover charge of ¥1,100 per person and a 10% service charge are automatically added to the bill.
- Payment: Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners, UnionPay) and most electronic money (Suica, etc.) are accepted. QR code payments are not.
- Age Restriction: Children are not permitted during bar operating hours. They may be allowed on the rooftop until 5:00 PM on days when it is open earlier.
- Dress Code: The indoor 'The Bar' area has a smart casual dress code; shorts, T-shirts, and sandals are not permitted.
- Seating: There are 72 seats on the rooftop and 36 indoors. A seat with a view is not guaranteed.
- Smoking: The venue is non-smoking, but a designated smoking area is available at the entrance to the rooftop bar.
