Just past Gojo Bridge in Kyoto, along the banks of the Takase River, lies the district of Kiku-hama. Once a bustling hanamachi or entertainment district, it’s now tucked slightly away from the main nightlife areas and sees few tourists. Lately, however, the neighborhood has been gaining a reputation for its hidden gems, and one that’s particularly exceptional is IXEY Non-Alcoholic Spirits Kyoto Distillery & Salon.
Boldly Opening in an Untapped Market
The bar opened in 2022, building on the legacy of Gion’s earlier Kisshu IXEY, the establishment renowned for its fragrant herbal concoctions. However, it’s not simply a second branch; its concept is a bar dedicated entirely to non-alcoholic cocktails, that are all distinctly made with natural plant extracts.
The Facade of IXEY Non-Alcoholic Spirits Kyoto Distillery & Salon
A few years ago, the sober curious lifestyle, where people consciously avoided alcohol, became trendy but seemingly faded. In today’s climate, where drinking in moderation is widely accepted, a focus on non-alcoholic, herb-based drinks still feels bold and unconventional.
“But I didn’t open the bar thinking of it as a challenge or a business venture,” says owner Hiroaki Oda with a candid smile. Now 42, Oda studied at a Kyoto university with plans to become a judicial scrivener, while simultaneously working in the food and beverage industry. Six years later, he decided to abandon the legal path and pursue independence in hospitality, founding Kisshu IXEY at age 30.
Kisshu IXEY is a bar specializing in herbal liqueurs. At the time, many thought a bar focused solely on herbs was unimaginable. Yet over time, it built a loyal following and strong reputation. Once that venture was thriving, Oda launched a new concept: IXEY Non-Alcoholic Spirits Kyoto Distillery & Salon, devoted entirely to non-alcoholic drinks.
He opened it fully aware that Japan’s market for non-alcoholic cocktails is practically nonexistent. This wasn’t about guaranteed success; it was driven by a simple belief. As Oda puts it: “If it’s good, it will find its audience. Whenever you try something new, there are always people who will connect with it.”
A Calm, Minimalist Interior with Subtle Charm
The bar is located just past the turn onto Rokken Street from Kiyamachi, with Takase River to your right. Housed in a renovated traditional Kyoto townhouse, its pared-down, minimalist exterior is unexpectedly striking. Step inside, and you’ll find low glass-fronted shelves lined with 500ml bottles.
These bottles serve as the foundation for the bar’s cocktails. Oda distills and blends herbs grown in his private Kyoto herb garden right on-site. Each bottle bears the brand name miatina, along with labels like Zensen, Tokijiku, and Kinmokusei indicating the specific blend.
At the back of the shelves sits the bar counter, softly lit with natural light streaming through snow-view shoji screens. Outside, a small courtyard adds a serene, quintessentially Kyoto touch.
Savoring Unexplored Flavors
I was greeted by a young bartender who had once been a regular at the bar. When I asked about the signature drink, he suggested a cocktail made with Zensen, which I ordered straight away.
While waiting for the cocktail to be prepared, I read the description of Zensen. It explains that it is a blend primarily made from Jindai cedar that has spent long periods buried in water or soil, giving it a spicy and woody aroma. Jindai cedar refers to ancient cedar trees that were buried by prehistoric geological shifts and excavated after centuries. I had expected a herbal blend to feature familiar herbs like mint or chamomile, but this opened up an entirely different world.
When the cocktail arrived, tiny shavings of hinoki wood, lightly torched, perched atop the ice. Bringing the glass to my nose, I was greeted by a fragrance that was both smoky and refreshingly crisp.
I couldn’t have imagined what it would taste like, but a striking flavor unfolded with the first sip. It sounds cliché, but the sensation was incredibly refreshing, with a crisp, clean finish that felt delightful. Oda describes it as “drinkable perfume,” and the description fits perfectly as the aroma lingers with every sip. It’s like a forest bath in a glass.
The next cocktail served was made with Kinmokusei, a blend of concentrated osmanthus flower aroma and sweet sake. This unexpected pairing offered a completely new taste experience, leaving me genuinely impressed.
After finishing the drinks, I felt a subtle euphoria, almost like a light buzz, despite the cocktails being non-alcoholic. It was probably the result of the bar’s atmosphere combined with the depth of the flavors, yet many other patrons report experiencing the same sensation.
Every cocktail, including the miatina series, is entirely original. Oda developed each recipe through careful experimentation until it reached its final form. It’s no wonder the bar draws so many discerning international guests. Even for those who don’t drink, the experience is simply innovative, and it’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the charm and elegance of a beautifully crafted bar.
IXEY Non-Alcoholic Spirits Kyoto Distillery & Salon
Address: 1F, 164-2 Hayaomachi, Higashi-iru, Rokken Street along Takasegawa, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8114, Japan
Phone: +81 75-708-2091
Hours: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Last Order: 9:30 PM)
Closed: Wednesday and Thursday
Website: https://ixey.jp
Instagram: ＠ixey_distillery
