Ralph & Sam in Kyoto: 12 Spots From the Video

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Kyoto

Must-try foods in Kyoto

• Yudofu (Simmered Tofu)
  Yudofu (Simmered Tofu)A specialty of Kyoto, particularly around the Nanzen-ji and Kiyomizu areas. Soft, silky tofu is simmered in a kombu (kelp) broth and served with a variety of dipping sauces and condiments. Because it relies on high-quality Kyoto water and plant-based dashi, it is a safe and iconic choice for halal diners seeking local tradition.
• Halal Chicken Ramen
  Halal Chicken RamenA modern favorite in Kyoto's halal scene. Establishments like Ayam-Ya Karasuma serve a rich, creamy broth made entirely from halal-certified chicken without MSG. The 2026 trending versions include 'Spicy Miso' and 'Rich Shoyu,' often topped with tender chicken slices and a perfectly marinated soft-boiled egg.
• Kyo-Yuba (Tofu Skin)
  Kyo-Yuba (Tofu Skin)A delicate Kyoto delicacy made from the skin that forms on top of boiling soy milk. It is served in various forms: fresh (sashimi-style), fried, or simmered in clear broth. Many specialty shops in the Nakagyo district offer yuba-focused courses that are naturally halal and showcase the city's sophisticated soy culture.
• Halal Kaiseki
  Halal KaisekiThe pinnacle of Japanese fine dining, Kyoto's kaiseki is a seasonal, multi-course meal. High-end ryotei like Honke Tankuma Honten have introduced halal-certified versions of this traditional art form, substituting sake and mirin with permissible alternatives while maintaining the exquisite presentation and seasonal focus.
• Halal Chicken Karaage
  Halal Chicken KaraageJapanese-style fried chicken that is a popular side dish at halal ramen shops. The chicken is marinated in ginger, garlic, and halal soy sauce, then coated in potato starch and deep-fried until ultra-crispy. It’s a trending comfort food for 2026, often served with a wedge of lemon.
• Halal Japanese Curry
  Halal Japanese CurryUnlike standard Japanese curry which often uses lard or meat-based roux, halal versions are made with vegetable oils and halal-certified meats. It is a hearty, thicker style of curry served over steamed Japanese rice, often topped with a fried cutlet (katsu) made from halal chicken.

Trip guide

• About Kyoto
  About KyotoShimomaruyachō is a district located in the Nakagyō Ward of Kyoto, Japan. Historically, the area is part of the central urban core that developed during the Heian and Edo periods. Its heritage is characterized by its proximity to the Kamo River and its role within the traditional grid system of the former capital.
• When to go
  When to goThe best months to visit Shimomaruyachō are late March to mid-April for cherry blossoms or November for vibrant autumn foliage, though these peak periods bring heavy crowds and higher prices. Spring and autumn offer mild, pleasant weather, whereas the summer months (June–August) are intensely hot and humid, and winter (January–February) is cold but ideal for avoiding crowds. For a balance of manageable foot traffic and comfortable temperatures.
• Getting around
  Getting around Kyoto

  • Kyoto Municipal Subway (Tozai Line) The most direct way to reach Shimomaruyacho is via the Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station (T12) on the Tozai Line, which is located directly within the neighborhood. From Kyoto Station.
  • Kyoto City Bus The area is well-served by numerous bus routes stopping at the 'Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae' (Kyoto City Hall) stop. From Kyoto Station, you can take buses such as Route 4, 17, or 205.
  • Walking and Cycling Shimomaruyacho is a highly walkable central district located near the Kamo River and the Teramachi shopping arcade. Because the area features a flat, grid-like street layout.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station on the Tozai Line for the most direct subway access to this central neighborhood.
  • Pay for your meal at the front counter rather than at the table, as is standard in most local establishments.
  • Refrain from talking on your mobile phone while using public transportation to respect the quiet environment.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Kyoto

  • Kyoto Summer Special Openings 2026: Rare public access to modern architecture and Toyotomi-era heritage sites in the Nakagyo area.
  • Sustainable Tourism Apps: Viral adoption of real-time congestion monitoring tools by the Kyoto City Transportation Bureau to manage 2026 crowds.
• Kyoto City Official Guide↗
  Kyoto City Official GuideThe official tourism website for Kyoto City, managed by the Kyoto City Tourism Association (DMO KYOTO) to provide travel information and sustainable guidelines.