Like a page out of a Murakami novel, Kyoto’s Jazz Spot Yamatoya serves up late nights, smoke and whiskey over smooth jazz. With Victorian wallpaper and dark wood furniture, the atmosphere is light-years away from the lanterns, world heritage shrines and temples of this ancient capital. Reopened in 2013, this venue’s history dates back two decades and counting. Open from noon to midnight, this local jazz spot is a few blocks from Heian Shrine and the museum mile, an area mostly deserted by tourists before dusk. Unlike the jazz cafes you find along Pontocho tailored for foreign travelers, drinks are very reasonably priced here.
- 1 min read
Jazz Spot Yamatoya
Late nights, smoke and whiskey over smooth jazz

By Connie Ng
Community writer

Flowing whiskey and conversations over smooth jazz- like a scene right out of an 80's Murakami novel

Julie London's Cry Me A River was my request for the night

Good shot of caffeine for the long commute home

The signage can be easy to miss, the entrance is tucked behind an alley off the main street

The neon signage on the main street before reaching the entrance

Extensive selves of records

Gold tinted Japanese artwork illuminating the back room
Explore nearby
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Kyushu Craftsmanship and Traditions Heritage Tour
Article -
2
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
3
Hokkaido Full Immersion Tour
Hokkaido -
4
Mt. Fuji Hike 2025: New Safety Rules & Registration Guide
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
5
Osaka Noh Festa
Osaka - Sponsored -
6
Aichi Awaits: Seven Authentic Experiences Beyond Nagoya
Aichi - Sponsored -
7
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
8
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
9
LUUP: The New Age of Bike Rentals in Japan?
Transportation -
10
An Enriching Getaway in Ome City
Tokyo - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
4
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
5
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
6
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
7
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
8
Tokyo Pride
Tokyo -
9
Black Eggs of Owakudani, Hakone
Kanagawa -
10
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo