Seating 30 people maximum, Beer Pub Takumiya is a modern little bar with minimal interiors. They serve about eight local Kyoto craft beers, Guinness and snacks. Beer options change regularly and staff are friendly and knowledgeable.

Hidden down a residential street is a cosy cocktail bar with dark wood interiors and fireside rocking chairs. Kenji Tsubokura, the owner (who recently won the world bartender of the year award) is on hand to help you with your drink order; be sure to try The Kyoto Distillery gin called Ki No Bi while you are there.

Head north up Kiyamachi-dori Street in the Pontocho district for a spirited evening of bar-hopping; Kyoto’s biggest nightlife strip stretches one kilometre between Sanjō and Shijō boulevards. Don’t be put off by the cabaret bars and big, back-lit signs, tucked away are authentic haunts and down-to-earth drinking spots.

Not the most typical of watering holes, this celebrated tea-makers Ippudo is a must-visit when in Kyoto. With many of the country’s top tea farms just a stone’s throw away in nearby Uji, Kyoto sells some of Japan’s finest green teas around. The origins of Ippudo’s flagship teahouse date back to 1717, and today it offers the chance to sit back with a brew or take part in expert-led tea making classes.