Kinobi House — Bar Review

In a century-old machiya once home to a wood merchant, the House of Ki No Bi blends gin geekery with Kyoto craftsmanship. Handmade zelkova furniture from local artisans, elaborate Nishijin textiles by Hosoo, and copper fixtures set the stage for a deep dive into the spirit that sparked the Japanese gin boom. Up front, the shop stocks exclusive bottles; beyond, the bar mixes excellent cocktails (the gin sonic and Suzu gimlet are both winners) and light bites. Book a tasting experience to sample six base spirits—ginger, green tea, citrus, sansho, and of course, juniper—that form the flagship Ki No Bi, sometimes led by the irrepressible brand ambassador, Marcy Sakuma. Come autumn, blending seminars upstairs will let guests create their own gin. Ask to peep the “Gin Palace,” a Victorian-inspired lounge overlooking a pocket garden, where vintage liqueurs and antique glassware channel 19th-century London decadence.