Rock Bar ING: The Heart and Soul of Kyoto's Night Life
Rock Bar ING Kyoto and its owner, Hako.

Rock Bar ING: The Heart and Soul of Kyoto's Night Life

James Saunders-Wyndham

Address: Kyoto Royal Building, 2Floor, Nishikiyamachi Takoyakushi Nakagyouku, Kyoto City, Japan

Website: http://www.kyotoingbar.com


1. Uncover Kyoto's Most Popular Late-Night Hangout

In the late 2000s, I had just moved back to Kyoto after being gone for 7 years. I was organizing to meet a friend downtown for drinks when they messaged me, "We'll meet you at ING in 30 min!" They assumed I knew this about this place, ING!

But that is the thing about Rock Bar ING Kyoto ( just 'ING' to the locals). It is the late-night bar that all Kyoto residents know well. At some point, everyone in Kyoto finds themself at ING. As far as Kyoto's nightlife goes, its a late-night institution. Today, Rock Bar ING is just popular today as it was 20-years ago.

Rock Bar ING: Locals and tourists mix it up and socializing. Photo Source: James Saunders-Wyndham
Rock Bar ING: Locals and tourists mix it up and socializing. Photo Source: James Saunders-Wyndham

1.1. ING is Number One for Rock Music in Kyoto

The bar is named after the 'ing' from "The Rolling Stones". This is because the owner and Master of ING, Hako, is a dedicated adoring fan. The whole bar is a tribute to the band and rock music. If you want to make the Master happy, ask him to play a Rolling Stones track.

I once arrived very late on a rainy weekday night. No one was there but me and my mate, Ian. Hako knows I love the Stones album, Exile on Main Street. He played the album from start to finish while we talked his ear off!
Rock Bar ING serves bottles of Sapporo and modest bar meals. Photo source: James Saunders-Wyndham
Rock Bar ING serves bottles of Sapporo and modest bar meals. Photo source: James Saunders-Wyndham

1.2. The Ambiance of Rock Bar ING

As soon as you open the door to ING, rock music comes pouring out. Rock Bar ING Kyoto can be best described as a dimly light dive bar dedicated to the love of rock music. With its well-worn wooden tables and hanging lights, it creates a dedicated space for your group to convene. It ain't pretty, but its definitely cozy!

The owners of ING entertaining at the bar. Photo Source: James Saunders-Wyndham
The owners of ING entertaining at the bar. Photo Source: James Saunders-Wyndham

1.3. Meet The Master of ING, Hako

For nearly two decades, Rock Bar ING has been my go-to spot in Kyoto. This is because the master and owner, Hako, has a unique talent for remembering not just your name but also the songs you request. It’s what makes this place special.

There’s nothing like walking into your local, and your favorite tunes are playing in honor of you. I’m sure that many people would agree that you’re not a Kyoto local until Hako knows your name and plays some tunes from your favorite band.

2. ING is Popular with Kyoto Locals and Tourists

Located in the heart of Kyoto’s nightlife, Kiyamachi Street (木屋町通– kiyamachi-dori), and established in 1998, Rock Bar ING has become a Kyoto institution, and no night out in Kyoto is complete without stopping by ‘ING’ for a tall bottle of Sapporo.

The customer base used to be mostly made up of foreigners living in Kyoto, tourists, and some dedicated Japanese locals. However, these days, due to the heavy influx of tourists into the city, the number of tourists visiting the bar has definitely increased.

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3. ING and Its Attention to Customers

The personalized service at ING is one of the many reasons why people, myself included, keep coming back year after year. Hako’s dedication to his customers creates an atmosphere of camaraderie and warmth that's hard to find elsewhere. This bar feels like a second home where everyone is welcome.

The master of Rock Bar ING, hako-san, is highly attentive to customers. Photo source: James Saunders-Wyndham
The master of Rock Bar ING, hako-san, is highly attentive to customers. Photo source: James Saunders-Wyndham

4. What Do People Say About Rock Bar ING Kyoto?

Online reviews about Kyoto's infamous Rock Bar ING overflow with positive comments and experiences. Visitors from all over the world rave about their experiences, and I can’t help but agree.

Whether it's the eclectic decor filled with rock memorabilia or the laid-back vibe that makes conversations easy, ING has carved out a niche that’s all its own in Kyoto's vibrant nightlife scene.

5. The Menu at ING

The drink menu ranges from Japanese whiskies and basic cocktails to bottled Japanese beer. The food menu options are limited to basic bar meals, but it is more than enough if you need to cushion the impact of the alcohol. Prices here are very reasonable and inline with Japan's reasonable cost of living.

The front of the Kyoto Royal Building. ING is located on the 2nd floor. Photo source: James Saunders-Wyndham
The front of the Kyoto Royal Building. ING is located on the 2nd floor. Photo source: James Saunders-Wyndham

6. Where is Rock Bar ING Kyoto Located?

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If you are new to Kyoto, finding ING for the first time won't be clear because you won’t see it from outside of the building.

  1. Enter the building.
  2. Walk down the hall.
  3. Go up the stairs (or elevator) on your right.
  4. Get off at the 2nd floor.
  5. ING is on the right-hand side.
The entrance to Rock Bar ING on the 2nd Floor of the Royal Kyoto Building. Photo source: James Saundrers-Wyndham
The entrance to Rock Bar ING on the 2nd Floor of the Royal Kyoto Building. Photo source: James Saundrers-Wyndham

7. If You’re Out in Kyoto, ING is a Must!

If you're ever in Kyoto and want to experience a night out that's truly special, make sure to visit Rock Bar ING. It’s more than just a bar; it’s a place where memories are made, friendships are forged, and the spirit of rock and roll lives on.


FAQs

What is Rock Bar ING known for?

Rock Bar ING is renowned for its dedication to rock music, particularly The Rolling Stones. Established in 1998, it has become a beloved spot in Kyoto's nightlife scene, attracting both locals and tourists with its authentic rock ambiance.

Who is the owner of Rock Bar ING?

The bar is owned by Hako-san, a passionate fan of The Rolling Stones. His commitment to rock music and personalized service has cultivated a loyal customer base over the years.

Where is Rock Bar ING located?

Rock Bar ING is situated on Kiyamachi Street (木屋町通 – Kiyamachi-dori) in Kyoto. Specifically, it's on the second floor of the Kyoto Royal Building at Nishikiyamachi Takoyakushi Nakagyouku, Kyoto City, Japan.

What is the atmosphere like at Rock Bar ING?

The bar offers a cozy, dive-bar ambiance with dim lighting, well-worn wooden tables, and a constant stream of rock music. This setting provides a welcoming environment for patrons to relax and enjoy the music. ​

Who frequents Rock Bar ING?

Initially, the bar attracted a mix of foreigners living in Kyoto, tourists, and dedicated Japanese locals. In recent years, with the increase in tourism, the number of visitors has grown, making it a popular spot for both locals and international guests.

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Rock Bar ING: The Heart and Soul of Kyoto's Night Life

James Saunders-Wyndham

I've been immersed in Japanese culture and daily life for over 30 years and am proud to call Japan my home. Originally from Australia, my journey has taken me from teaching at Japanese universities to traveling extensively across the country, uncovering its hidden gems. As a web developer, I built Romancing Japan from the ground up to share these experiences with you. Whether it's the charm of old Kyoto, the pulse of Tokyo, or the tranquility of the countryside, I love helping others discover the magic of Japan—one story at a time.