Togakushi

A short walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station toward Togetsukyo Bridge leads to Saga Nakanoshimacho, where Togakushi provides a dependable midday haven. Unpretentious and relaxed, this noodle specialist welcomes sightseers before or after their walks with generous combinations pairing bowls of noodles with mini rice dishes.

For a taste closely associated with Kyoto, the nishin soba stands out. A tender filet of dried herring, simmered in a sweet and savoury broth, infuses the warm dashi with depth. Ordering it as a set brings along Japanese pickles and a bite-sized tendon topped with prawn tempura and nori, letting you alternate between delicate noodles and fresh, crisp tempura over rice. Those who prefer thick wheat noodles can substitute udon for soba.

When a more substantial lunch is in order, the toriten set delivers freshly fried chicken tempura alongside a small bowl of chicken mince over rice. The noodles can be enjoyed hot, strewn with tender Kujo scallions, or chilled on a bamboo zaru with dipping sauce. The kitchen also offers varied options to match different cravings, such as a spicy toriten curry udon set for colder days or a lighter ume-wakame set paired with salmon-and-nori rice.

Operations centre on daytime lunch hours between 11:00 and 15:00, offering a leisurely setting where diners can unwind over a bottled beer or a flask of sake. Whether you are dining solo or with companions, it is a practical, satisfying stop while exploring Arashiyama.