When dinner in Gion is over, there is often a feeling of wanting to keep talking, or of wanting the evening to end somewhere memorably Kyoto.
Choosing an after-party venue means shifting the mood from the first venue while keeping it comfortable for everyone. Here is how to think about finishing a night in Gion well.
Settle on one purpose for the after-party
Decide first whether you want to keep talking, to do something together, or simply to have a quiet drink. Searching without a purpose in mind tends to land you somewhere too loud, or somewhere the conversation runs dry.
For business entertaining, prioritise conversation and privacy; among friends, activity and energy; on a date, atmosphere and how close you can sit. That alone narrows the list quickly.
For conversation, choose a bar or a private room
If the first venue left you with more to say, a bar where you can sit and settle suits best. Beyond the drinks list, the spacing between seats, the lighting and the volume all shape how easy it is to talk.
For work talk or a conversation that matters, choose a semi-private or fully private room. As well as not being overheard, it keeps the group together as one.
Change the mood with something to do
Adding simulation golf or darts to the food and drinks gives the evening a different rhythm from the first venue. When there are people meeting for the first time, a shared activity gives the conversation somewhere to start.
In a group with mixed golf experience, the trick is to pick closest-to-the-pin or short games rather than competing on score. Where people who are not playing can still join in with a drink and some encouragement, everyone stays involved.
Confirm numbers, timing and the walk in advance
On Friday and Saturday nights in Gion, a table for your numbers may simply not be available. Estimate when the first venue ends, how many will come and how long you will stay, and book the after-party too if you can.
A venue you can walk to from dinner keeps the group from splitting up. If you are staying late, share the closing time and the way home with everyone before you set off.
- Walking time from the first venue
- Group size and private room capacity
- Last orders and closing time
- Payment methods and how the bill is split
Which plan suits which occasion
An open booth works for an after-party with friends, a semi-private booth for a small group who want to talk, and a fully private room for business entertaining or an anniversary.
For groups who want the bill kept simple, a plan combining free-flow drinks with the activity is the easy option. Where people drink very different amounts, a booth booking with drinks ordered individually is worth considering.
An after-party near Gion-Shijo Station
At Gion Country Club, simulation golf, the bar, darts and karaoke in the VIP room are all in one place. Those who play and those who do not can each spend the evening their own way.
We are three minutes' walk from Exit 7 of Gion-Shijo Station and open until 5:00 am. Once your numbers and your plan for the evening are settled, please book a booth or a special plan in advance.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should an after-party in Gion be booked?
It depends on the day and the size of the group, but private rooms and group bookings are best reserved early. Same-day availability can also be checked.
Can people who do not play golf enjoy an after-party here?
At a venue with a bar, darts and karaoke, guests who do not play can enjoy the evening alongside everyone else.
Can a small group use a private room?
Conditions differ by venue and plan. Tell them your numbers and the occasion when you book.
