Ẩm thực Kawadoko - Kawayuka

Kawadoko or Kawayuka as they are commonly called in Kyoto are stilt houses built along the Kamogawa and other rivers in Kyoto. The 'official' name is noryoyuka and they extend from the Nijo Bridge to the Gojo Bridge. They are open from May to the end of September.

Kawadoko cuisine is a unique feature of summer in Kyoto. Restaurants and teahouses serving food on stilts are built temporarily over the river or outside with a view of the river so you can enjoy the view and cool breeze the river brings.

In Kyoto, kawadoko/kawayuka can be divided into two areas; Kibune area and Kamogawa area. It is written as “川 床 (literally translated as “river bottom”)” in Japanese kanji, and this can be pronounced in two different ways. Places where you can enjoy eating right on the river, mainly in Kibune, are called "kawadoko". Places in Kamogawa called "kawayuka" are places with high floors overlooking the river to enjoy food.

The “Kawadoko” in Kibune has an average temperature of 23 degrees Celsius even under the blazing midsummer sun, 10 degrees cooler than downtown Kyoto. As soon as you sit on the floor, you will immediately feel the coolness. Kibune's "Kawadoko" dates back to the Taisho period (1912-1926). It is said that the beginning of "Kawadoko" is when people go to the river to cool off and sit on a small bench to wash their feet and enjoy food and tea. The traditional style of sitting on the floor foundation continues to this day. You can touch the water by extending your hand.

Important note when participating in kawadoko / kawayuka cuisine

1. Don't forget to reserve a table!

Kawadoko / kawayuka in summer in Kyoto is a hugely popular tourist attraction. Arriving without a reservation, chances are there are no seats left for you. Be careful to reserve a table in advance.

2. Be careful about the weather!

The great thing about kawadoko/kawayuka is that you can dine al fresco. However, that also means the experience depends on the weather. There are covered places, but kawadoko/kawayuka may be canceled during heavy rain and you can sit in the restaurant. We recommend checking the weather before visiting. There is a chance that there will be a sudden shower in summer in Kyoto. It's better to bring an umbrella or a raincoat even if it's forecast to be sunny.

3.Don't make noise!

Kawadoko / kawayuka is also a place where sake or alcohol can be enjoyed with food. But don't drink too much and don't make a fuss even though it's a rare experience. Many people visit these places to quietly listen to the sound of streams flowing; Limit noise and inconvenience to people around. It's a place with a classy atmosphere. Be a hannari (Kyoto dialect means "graceful"), nice and quiet to enjoy this delightful experience.