Torii Chaya

Located at the entrance of the Kifune Shrine, the head shrine of over 2,000 water gods across Japan, this Kyoto-style kaiseki restaurant offers seasonal dishes and casual chazuke meals in the serene surroundings of Kifune.

The highlight is the "Specialty Ayu Chazuke", featuring sweetfish that’s first grilled and then simmered for an entire day with sansho peppers. Other notable dishes include the Chamise Bento, a nine-item set featuring sashimi and yuba with thickened sauce, and the Botan Nabe (wild boar hotpot), made with premium boar loin, house-made miso soup, and ponzu (available in winter for two or more people by reservation).

The standout Ayu Chazuke is a legacy dish from the restaurant’s early days. Enjoy the tender sweetfish, simmered to perfection, from head to tail. For those seeking a lighter option, try the Ayu Soba, where the sweetfish is served atop soba noodles, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional nishin soba.

For a more luxurious dining experience, the kaiseki meal (available for two or more people by reservation) can be enjoyed in private tatami rooms, perfect for special occasions or celebratory gatherings.