A homey shokudo (think Japanese diner) on the main Higashiyama tourist trail, with an English menu and a friendly staff, this is a great spot for a bowl or rice or noodles while exploring the east side of Kyoto.
This homely little shokudo has been serving locals and tourists for decades and there’s a reason why it’s still popular: good food, reasonable prices and a staff of friendly Kyoto aunties who know how to make you feel right at home. There’s the usual array of noodle (soba and odon) and donburi (rice bowl) dishes on offer, along with some other treats. There are even a few things kids will eat, like bits of fried chicken. You can’t miss the place: they’ve put a picture of a Lonely Planet guidebook in which they appeared out front.
For more Kyoto shokudo choices, see our Best Shokudo (All Round Restaurants) in Kyoto) page.
Name in English:
Oshokuji-dokoro Asuka
Name in Japanese:
お食事処明日香
English address:
144 Nishi-machi, Jingumichi-nishi-iru, Sanjo-dori, Higashiyama-ku
Japanese address:
東山区三条通神宮道西入ル西町144
Opening hours:
11am-11pm
Closed Monday
Price: Budget
Non-smoking area: No
Nearest Transport:
2min walk from Higashiyama Station Exit 1, Tozai subway line
Telephone: 751-1941
Website:
None
Near To Here:
Oshokuji-dokoro Asuka is located in Kyoto’s Northern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Northern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
More Restaurant Suggestions: See my list of Kyoto’s Best Restaurants for more eating inspiration. The list covers all cuisines and price ranges.
Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
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Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help