Junidanya Main store

Located in the heart of the Gion area, just a short walk from Kyoto’s popular Yasaka Shrine, Junidanya Main Store stands as a blend of traditional Kyoto machiya charm and robust folk architecture. As you walk south along Hanamikoji Street, the main thoroughfare of Gion, the distinguished building of Junidanya, famous as the birthplace of shabu-shabu, comes into view.

The origin of shabu-shabu dates back to 1949 when the second-generation owner created a dish called "gyuniku no mizutaki" (beef hot pot). This evolved into the shabu-shabu we know today: premium Kyoto beef sirloin is briefly dipped in a copper pot filled with broth heated over charcoal, then enjoyed with a homemade sesame sauce. The combination of tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef and the subtly sweet, umami-enhancing sesame sauce creates a harmonious and unforgettable taste experience.

The interior of Junidanya is adorned with works by masters of the Japanese art world, with pieces from ceramic artist Kawai Kanjiro, potter Shoji Hamada, woodworker Tatsuaki Kuroda, and printmaker Shiko Munakata, adding to the elegant ambiance.

Dining in this refined setting, surrounded by artistic masterpieces, makes for an unforgettable culinary experience.