Experience the Unique 'Sento' Bar Culture at Thermae in Kyoto
On
January 31, a new concept in dining and drinking will open its doors in the heart of Kyoto, right in the bustling area of
Shijo Kawaramachi. The establishment, known as
Thermae, merges the traditional experience of a Japanese public bathhouse, or
sento, with a vibrant izakaya atmosphere. This innovative venue offers patrons a chance to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience while enjoying drinks and food at shockingly low prices.
A New Benchmark in Affordable Dining
Thermae, a pioneer among public bath restaurants, boasts a 95% cost ratio on its food offerings. This has led to an incredible menu where items are priced as low as
35 yen. The concept is to prioritize the experience of dining and enjoying drinks over profit margins. It's about creating memorable moments for guests, whether they are locals or tourists.
The standout attraction is the
self-service unlimited drinking system, where patrons can pour their own drinks straight from the taps—yes, this means unlimited access to a selection of beverages for just
398 yen per hour! With 13 types of drinks to choose from, customers have the freedom to pour as much as they like, making this not only a fun activity to share on social media but also an excellent deal for those looking to unwind after a long day of exploring Kyoto.
An Atmosphere Like No Other
The interior design of
Thermae is a particularly striking feature, as it evokes the nostalgic charm of a traditional sento. From the reception area inspired by the front desk of a bathhouse to locker-style decorations reminiscent of locker rooms, every detail aims to immerse guests in a unique non-daily environment. The tiled walls and bathing basket-inspired storage create an inviting and relaxing ambiance that encourages socializing and enjoyment.
A Culinary Delight
The menu features
five signature dishes, including the renowned
Thermae skewer and
crispy karaage. During opening hours, guests can enjoy these dishes at a remarkable price, making them accessible without skimping on flavor or quality. Importantly, these offerings have an average cost percentage of 95%, which is virtually unheard of in the food industry, underscoring the commitment to providing enjoyable experiences over profit.
A Hub for Social Media Buzz
Capitalizing on the popularity of social media,
Thermae has designed its venue to be visually stunning, allowing customers to capture eye-catching photos of their drinks and food. The restaurant has seen incredible success with influencer collaborations that have resulted in viral content, increasing their visibility and appeal exponentially. After the launch of their promotional video collaborations, sales reportedly tripled, proving that unique dining concepts drive customer engagement and interest.
Media Presence
Thermae has made appearances on various media platforms, including popular television programs. This exposure has added to the restaurant's allure and helped establish it as a must-visit location in Kyoto.
Location and Details
- - Name: Thermae Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi
- - Address: 307 Bizen-Jima-Cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8023
- - Phone: 075-746-3440
- - Access: Approximately 5 minutes from Hankyu Kyoto Kawaramachi Station
- - Hours: Daily from 17:00 to 24:00, Fridays, and Saturdays until 5:00 the next morning
- - Closed: No fixed days off
- - Official Website: Visit Here
- - Instagram: @terumae.official
Experience the exciting fusion of traditional Japanese culture and modern dining at
Thermae—a new hallmark in Kyoto's vibrant izakaya scene, perfect for a flavorful evening out after exploring this beautiful city.