I went to Kyoto (京都) the week after returning from Singapore. Looking back, that was quite a crazy schedule. We were talking about seeing the autumn leaves, and this was the timing when we just barely caught them. The fall colors were truly beautiful.
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The Belgian-style beers were absolutely incredible.
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The first floor houses the brewery and taproom, while the second floor is a dining area. There are also a few outdoor seats.
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Food is BYO, and other customers were bringing in all sorts of things.
ルネちゃん
The taproom atmosphere looks wonderful! Beer lovers should definitely check it out!
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It’s a bit far from the station — about a 20-minute walk. However, since the taproom is only open on select days, I decided this Kyoto trip was my chance and just went for it.
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They also sell merchandise like hoodies and T-shirts. I bought a hoodie — highly recommended!
📝 Summary
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Kyoto Brewing Co. (京都醸造) in Nishikujo, Kyoto (京都市南区西九条) was a wonderful brewery. Fresh beer at their taproom is a must for craft beer lovers!
Kyoto Brewing is in a residential area of Minami-ku, Kyoto (京都市南区), somewhat far from stations. Taproom hours are limited, so always check the official website or social media for the schedule before visiting. I walked about 20 minutes from Kintetsu Toji Station, but the stroll through Kyoto’s streets was quite pleasant.
🍺 Recommended Beers
Kyoto Brewing is known for Belgian-style-based brewing. It was founded by three brewers from America, Canada, and Wales, giving it a truly international character.
Ichii Senshin (一意専心)
Kyoto Brewing’s flagship beer. A unique style that adds Citra hops to a Belgian wheat ale, beautifully harmonizing the smoothness of wheat with tropical hop aromas. It embodies the fusion of Belgian and American craft, and is the first beer I’d recommend to anyone trying Kyoto Brewing for the first time.
Ichigo Ichie (一期一会)
A saison-based beer featuring spicy flavors from Belgian yeast and a dry finish. It pairs well with Kyoto’s Japanese cuisine and works wonderfully as a food beer. Seasonal variations are released throughout the year.
Limited Releases & Collaboration Beers
Kyoto Brewing actively collaborates with other breweries, and the quality of their limited releases is extremely high. They experiment with diverse styles including IPAs, sours, and stouts, and you may encounter taproom-only exclusives during your visit.
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Kyoto Brewing has earned high ratings on RateBeer and is getting attention from international craft beer fans! Their unique approach of boldly using American hops on a Belgian-style base is highly regarded!
📍 Nearby Attractions
Toji Temple (東寺) — UNESCO World Heritage Site. The five-story pagoda is a Kyoto icon. The monthly Kobo-san market (21st of each month) is also famous
Kyoto Beer Lab — Another craft brewery in Kyoto. Perfect for a Kyoto craft beer crawl route
Around Kyoto Station — Kyoto Tower, Porta underground mall, etc. One more pint is possible before catching the Shinkansen
Kyoto Railway Museum — Within walking distance from Kyoto Brewing. An irresistible route for beer and train enthusiasts
🛍️ Merchandise & Souvenirs
The taproom sells original merchandise including hoodies and T-shirts. Items with the Kyoto Brewing logo make great souvenirs for craft beer lovers. I bought a hoodie myself, and the simple, stylish design works for everyday wear. They also sell cans for takeaway, so you can enjoy Kyoto Brewing’s flavors at home.
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