Kyoto’s summer tradition, “Kawadoko” (riverside dining), has a long history dating back to the early Edo period. In recent years, more restaurants have started offering lunch services, making it easier to enjoy Kawadoko in a casual way. This article introduces recommended restaurants in the Kamo River area where you can experience a Kawadoko lunch.

Ikariya Shokudo

Ikariya Shokudo is a bistro housed in a renovated traditional machiya tucked away in a quiet alley.

It offers casual French and Italian dishes such as “Chicken Thigh Confit” and “Cocotte Cheese Soufflé.”

Prepared by a chef trained in Europe, the restaurant’s dishes allow you to enjoy authentic European flavors right in Kyoto.

It’s the perfect spot for those who want to experience a Kyoto-style machiya or Japanese-style house without the formality of a traditional ryotei.

Ikariya Shokudo’s Kawadoko (Riverside Dining)

At Ikariya Shokudo, the Kawadoko (riverside dining) is available from May 1 to October 13.

There are two seatings: lunch (available only in May, June, September, and October) and dinner. During the day, you can admire the sparkling Kamo River, while at night, you can relax in the soft glow of indirect lighting.

A nice bonus is that you can enjoy views of the Kamo River not only from the open terrace but also from the cool indoor seating.

Kawadoko Menu (Riverside Dining Menu)

At Ikariya Shokudo’s Kawadoko, lunch is served as a course meal, while dinner offers both course menus and à la carte options.

Lunch courses start at just 2,800 yen, making them very reasonably priced ✨

It’s a great choice for a casual celebration or a romantic date♡

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TRATTORIA PIZZERIA Amore Kiyamachi

“TRATTORIA PIZZERIA amore Kiyamachi” is distinguished by its charming, antique-style exterior.

Focusing on Southern Italian cuisine, it offers casual Italian dishes.

Their specialty Neapolitan pizza, baked in a wood-fired oven inside the restaurant, is full of delightful aroma and flavor.

With a wide selection of desserts, it’s also a great choice for small parties ✨

TRATTORIA PIZZERIA amore Kiyamachi’s Kawadoko (Riverside Dining)

At TRATTORIA PIZZERIA amore Kiyamachi, the Kawadoko (riverside dining) is available from May 1 to September 30.

During the day, you can enjoy a casual, open-terrace-style experience, while at night, the atmosphere becomes moody with candlelight.

The restaurant is divided into four different floors, allowing you to enjoy views of the Kamo River even from the air-conditioned indoor seating.

Kawadoko Menu (Riverside Dining Menu)

At Amore Kiyamachi’s Kawadoko, they offer menus where you can enjoy authentic Italian flavors, including course meals and à la carte options.

Savor Italian cuisine while admiring the scenic Kamo River — a truly luxurious experience ✨

À la carte dishes start from ¥2,200, making it a pleasantly casual option as well.

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Riversuite Kyoto Kamogawa Geihinkan

Riversuite Kyoto Kamogawa Geihinkan is located along the Kamo River, offering panoramic views of the Higashiyama mountains. It’s a wedding venue renowned for its breathtaking location.

You might wonder, “A Kawadoko at a wedding hall?” — but during the summer, they open a cool riverside dining area called the Riverside Restaurant [Kamogawa KAWAYUKA] ✨

From a special floor used only during the Kawadoko season, you can enjoy creative Kyoto-style French cuisine prepared by top chefs while gazing at the Kamo River — a rare and unique Kawadoko experience.

Lunch is offered at a special price starting from ¥2,200 (tax included), making it easy to visit casually.

Riversuite Kyoto Kamogawa Geihinkan’s Kawadoko (Riverside Dining)

At Riversuite Kyoto Kamogawa Geihinkan, the Kawadoko (riverside dining) is available from May 1 to October 15.

The Kawadoko seating area is one of the largest in the region! It can also be reserved for private parties or adapted to a buffet-style setup.

In case of rain, meals can be enjoyed in the restaurant on the basement first floor.

Kawadoko Menu (Riverside Dining Menu)

For Kawadoko guests, they offer special course meals and set menus.

The “Kamogawa Summer Kawadoko Lunch Course” is surprisingly affordable at just ¥2,200 (tax included)!

The course includes an appetizer, soup, a choice of main dish, and dessert. For the main, you can choose from a meat dish, a fish dish, or pasta ✨

For lunch, in addition to the course menu, they also offer Japanese set meals (Gozen).

The set includes tempura, sashimi, simmered dishes, grilled items, meat dishes, salad, rice, pickles, and dessert — a very satisfying lineup.

Since it’s limited to 20 servings, advance reservation is recommended!

In addition, they offer a premium summer Kawadoko dinner course and special anniversary dinners.

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Enjoy Kawadoko (Riverside Dining) in Kimono or Yukata

In Kyoto, Kawadoko (riverside dining) is offered at a variety of venues, from traditional, charming Kyoto townhouses to trendy modern restaurants.

Visiting in casual clothes is already memorable, but wearing a kimono or yukata adds an extra touch of special elegance ✨

Kimonos and yukatas perfectly match the elegant atmosphere of Kawadoko!

The kimono and yukata from Tekuteku Kyoto complement both traditional and modern Kawadoko settings ✨

There are two options available: a “summer kimono” and a “yukata” plan.

Summer kimono

You might think, “Wearing a kimono in summer sounds too hot…” — but don’t worry! We offer lightweight, delicate summer kimonos designed for the season.

The soft fabric flows with the breeze, keeping you comfortable and well-ventilated.

Silk summer kimonos, in particular, are light and pleasant to wear, even cooler than a yukata!

They create a more classic and elegant look than a yukata, making them perfect for traditional townhouses, historic ryotei, or antique-style restaurants.

Yukata

Summer means yukata! They’re a cool, comfortable outfit worn without a juban or tabi ✨

Tekuteku Kyoto offers a wide variety of yukata styles, including large patterns, modern designs, innovative prints, and distinctive colors.

For traditional Kawadoko in townhouses, retro or antique-style yukata are recommended, while modern patterns or playful colors are perfect for restaurants ♡

Stay even cooler by using accessories and inner layers designed for comfort.

Tekuteku Kyoto’s summer kimonos and yukata are designed to keep you cool even in the hot summer, but with the right accessories and inner layers, you can stay even more comfortable!

In particular, we recommend preparing the following items.

Adding summer-themed accessories makes your look even more stylish!

Combining summery accessories like folding fans, uchiwa fans, or parasols can make your look even more stylish!

Traditional Japanese accessories pair perfectly with Japanese-style restaurants, while Western-style items go well with casual spots like Italian or French cafés✨

Stay cool and stylish while enjoying the kawadoko experience!

Casual Kawadoko Lunch in Kimono or Yukata

Kawadoko dining is a signature summer experience in Kyoto.
If it feels a bit intimidating, lunchtime is actually a relatively affordable way to try it✨

Wearing a summer kimono or yukata adds an extra touch of elegance — and makes for stunning photos!

When visiting Kyoto in summer, why not enjoy a casual kawadoko lunch dressed in kimono or yukata?