Nijo Castle is a pristine testament to Kyoto’s rich, legendary history and a must-see destination for both tourists and locals. While the castle itself is a remarkable piece of Japan’s heritage, what truly enhances the experience is what surrounds it. Walking along its massive moat, visitors will find Nijo Castle nestled in a vibrant neighborhood filled with stellar restaurants, charming shops, and serene parks. Today, KABIN takes a step in each cardinal direction around Nijo Castle to introduce some of our favorite spots to explore.
Urinsha
Heading west, you’ll find Urinsha, the ultimate brunch spot. Japan is known for taking pancakes to new heights with its thick, fluffy creations, but Urinsha bucks the trend by serving the classic wide, thin pancakes instead. What sets them apart is the way they top their pancakes: a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg, two crispy strips of smoked bacon, a dollop of berry jam, and a generous drizzle of syrup. While it may seem like an ambitious combination, the mix of flavors turns out to be an unforgettable breakfast experience.
Aioi: The Restaurant with a Train
To the north, you’ll discover Aioi, a restaurant that combines delicious Japanese fare with a one-of-a-kind attraction—a model train system. The train, modeled after the Japan Railway trains of western Japan, winds its way through the restaurant, complete with detailed landscapes and station master uniforms. If you’re lucky, the owner might even turn off the main lights and showcase the train in full illumination—a magical experience that captured our imaginations.
As for the food, Aioi offers a cafeteria-style menu brimming with Japanese comfort classics: nabeyaki udon, ginger pork, pork katsu sets, inari sushi, and more. The combination of charming nostalgia and hearty dishes makes Aioi a great place to refuel, unwind, and watch the trains go by.
Kissa Chiroru
Just a short walk south of Nijo Castle brings you to Kissa Chiroru, a traditional kissaten (coffee parlor) with over 50 years of history. Compact and unassuming, Chiroru serves up generously portioned breakfast and lunch dishes at affordable prices. Every dish is crafted with care, reflecting the decades of experience that have shaped the chef's technique. The perfectly cut sandwich bread and beautifully presented cinnamon toast reveal a dedication to quality.
Stepping inside feels like a journey back to the Showa era, with its all-wood interior and regular patrons reading newspapers from the shelves. The walls, adorned with black-and-white photos of Kyoto’s past, create a warm and nostalgic ambiance that preserves a piece of Japan’s cultural history.
Shinsen-en Garden
Neighboring Kissa Chiroru is Shinsen-en Garden, a serene retreat that provides a quiet escape from the bustling city. While not as grand as Nijo Castle or as famous as Kiyomizu-dera, Shinsen-en’s tranquility is what makes it special. Visitors can purchase fish food at the entrance, stroll across the vermilion bridge, and feed the koi fish in the peaceful pond—a surprisingly therapeutic experience.
Historically, Shinsen-en was a favorite moon-viewing spot for Kyoto’s aristocracy. During the mid-autumn moon harvest in September, the pond reflects the full moon beautifully, offering a glimpse of the past in this quiet corner of the city.
Sashisu (East)
On the east side of Nijo Castle, Sashisu impresses with its beautifully presented sashimi platters. Every detail is perfected, from the fresh ingredients to the skilled technique of the chefs. Accompanying sides like roasted wild boar and seasonal pickles add to the experience, while the extensive sake selection completes the meal.