Honke Owariya: Kyoto's Oldest Soba Shop

Honke Owariya is the most famous place to eat buckwheat noodles in the whole city. This legendary restaurant started as a small confectionery shop over five hundred years ago. It sits in a beautiful wooden building near the peaceful Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds. You will feel the history of Japan as you walk through the small front door.

The restaurant serves a special set for the New Year's Eve celebration in 2026. This meal usually includes hot soup, tempura shrimp, and very fresh green scallions. Most people choose the hot soba to stay warm during the cold winter night. You should arrive early because the shop does not always take late reservations.

Expect to pay between 1,500 and 3,000 yen for a full noodle set here. The shop is open from 11:00 AM until the noodles completely run out. You can check the Kyoto City Official Travel Guide for their holiday closing times. This spot is perfect for families who want a very traditional Japanese experience.

Misoka-an Kawamichi-ya: A Historic Dining Gem

Misoka-an Kawamichi-ya offers a very authentic atmosphere for your traditional New Year's Eve meal. The restaurant is hidden in a narrow alleyway in the heart of central Kyoto. It features a stunning courtyard garden that looks beautiful even during the winter months. Many travelers love this spot for its quiet and very peaceful dining environment.

Their most famous dish is called Hourai Soba, which comes with many colorful toppings. You can customize your noodles with wasabi, nori seaweed, and fresh Japanese mushrooms. The texture of their handmade noodles is famous across the entire Kansai region. It is a great place to relax before seeing the Joya no Kane bell ringing ceremony.

This shop often has long lines on December 31st starting from the early afternoon. Most diners spend about forty-five minutes enjoying their meal and the lovely scenery. Prices are very reasonable for the high quality of food and service you receive. Make sure to bring cash as some historic shops do not accept credit cards.

Soba Options Near Yasaka Shrine and Gion

The Gion district is the center of many Yasaka Shrine New Year's Eve traditions this year. You will find several excellent soba shops within walking distance of the main shrine gates. These restaurants are very convenient if you plan to join the crowds for midnight prayers. Gion Soba is a popular local choice that stays open late on New Year's Eve.

Eating near the shrine allows you to soak in the festive holiday atmosphere of Kyoto. You can see people dressed in beautiful kimonos walking toward the sacred fire ceremonies. Many smaller shops in this area offer standing-room only counters for a quick meal. This is a great option if you are in a hurry to see the sights.

• Gion Soba: Located very close to the shrine entrance for easy access.
• Izuu: Famous for sushi but often serves excellent seasonal soba dishes too.
• Matsuba: Known for herring soba, which is a unique Kyoto winter specialty.

Be prepared for very large crowds in the Gion area throughout the entire evening. Security guards will direct the flow of traffic to keep everyone safe and moving. You should check the public transport hours in Kyoto to plan your trip home. Most trains and buses will run later than usual on this special night.

Where to Eat Toshikoshi Soba in Kyoto: Final Tips

If the famous restaurants are too crowded, you have several other good options. Many high-end hotels in Kyoto serve Toshikoshi Soba in their own private dining rooms. This is a very comfortable way to enjoy the tradition without waiting in the cold. You might need to book these hotel meals several weeks in advance for 2026.

You can also find high-quality soba sets at major department stores like Takashimaya or Daimaru. These stores sell take-home kits that include fresh noodles and delicious concentrated soup base. This is a perfect choice if you prefer a quiet night in your own accommodation. Simply boil the water and enjoy your lucky noodles at your own kitchen table.

Remember that you must finish your entire bowl of soba before the clock strikes midnight. Leaving unfinished noodles is considered bad luck for your finances in the coming new year. The thin noodles represent a very clean break from all the hardships of the past. Enjoy this delicious tradition as you welcome a wonderful and prosperous 2026 in Kyoto.