Bar KOHAKU: Kyoto's Top Spot for Sunset Views and Cocktails

If you're visiting Kyoto, you won't want to miss Bar KOHAKU on the fourth floor of the Park Hyatt Kyoto. Known for its stunning views, this bar offers one of the best spots to take in Kyoto's breathtaking sunsets. From a seat by the window, you'll have a panoramic view of the city as it's bathed in the colors of dusk.

📍 Floor 4, Park Hyatt Kyoto, 360 Masuyacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0826, Japan

Atmosphere & Experience

I visited Bar KOHAKU with a friend one evening. We sipped cocktails and took in the mesmerizing scenery just outside the glass. This bar is famous for its incredible sunset views, where you can watch Kyoto's landscape transform as the sun dips lower, transforming the sky into an ever-changing canvas of vibrant colors—from warm sunset hues to the deep blues of twilight.

The atmosphere inside is calm and inviting. Even during busier hours, it maintains a serene ambiance, perfect for those who want to enjoy the sunset without interruption. The decor is elegant and comfortable, and the bartenders are not only skilled but also warm and attentive, making each cocktail an experience in itself.

Drinks & Pricing

While drinks here are on the high-end—a cocktail averages around 2,700 yen (about $18 USD)—it's easy to justify given the stunning view you're paying to enjoy. I tried their signature matcha cocktail and a classic gin and tonic, both of which were expertly crafted. The gin and tonic was especially refreshing, with subtle herbal notes that paired perfectly with the scenery.

For those who don't drink, like my friend, Bar KOHAKU is still an ideal photo spot. She simply asked the bartender for the most photogenic drink, and he was happy to oblige with a couple of picturesque recommendations. English communication was smooth, making it easy to get exactly what we wanted.

Photography Spots & Timing

The bar's terrace is another popular photo location. Even if you're not ordering a drink, you can still visit the terrace free of charge to snap some photos. The terrace sits between a teppanyaki restaurant and the bar, but the ambiance and view at the bar make it the clear winner for sunset shots. For the best views, arrive about 30 minutes before sunset (around 4 p.m. in winter and 6 p.m. in summer), as this is a popular time and you may need to queue for a window seat.

Practical Information

Expect to spend around 5,000 yen per person here, which includes both drinks and light snacks. Non-hotel guests are also charged an additional 1,500 yen seating fee. If you're staying at the Park Hyatt Kyoto, you can reserve seats a few days in advance. Otherwise, non-guests can either make phone reservations after 9 a.m. (contact information available on the official website) or visit in person and scan a QR code to join the queue.

Note that there is a dress code: gentlemen should wear long pants and closed-toe shoes—avoid T-shirts, shorts, and sandals. It's also wise to check the weather forecast to ensure you'll have clear skies for that perfect sunset view.

After enjoying the sunset at Bar KOHAKU, consider taking a stroll through Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka nearby to immerse yourself in Kyoto's traditional charm. Whether you're here for the drinks or the photos, Bar KOHAKU offers an experience full of delight and wonder—a must-visit in Kyoto!