Best of Kyoto
The best ice cream in Kyoto
Start with Shinpachi Chaya in Arashiyama, BABBI Gelateria Kyoto in Gion-Shijo and Gion Kinana in Gion. Here are all 5, with why each one is worth it.
- Shinpachi ChayaArashiyama · Gelato
Arashiyama gelato specialist provides a convenient stop near the area’s riverside sights.
- BABBI Gelateria KyotoGion-Shijo · Gelato
Italian wafer brand’s gelateria offers rich gelato in a riverside Kyoto setting.
- Gion KinanaGion · Ice cream
Kyoto ice cream institution particularly known for kinako, or roasted soybean flour, flavors.
- Nanaya KyotoSanjo · Gelato
Tea-focused gelato specialist offering a distinctly Japanese approach to the Italian scoop.
- SUGiTORATeramachi · Gelato
Specialist gelato café offering takeaway scoops and carefully composed dessert creations.
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Save the whole listAsk Chef for morePlan my Kyoto food tripThe best ice cream in Kyoto: questions people ask
Where is the best ice cream in Kyoto?
Chef Amazing’s picks start with Shinpachi Chaya (Arashiyama), BABBI Gelateria Kyoto (Gion-Shijo) and Gion Kinana (Gion). All 5 places are on this page with what to get, where they are and a map.
How does Chef Amazing pick these?
From Chef Amazing’s city guide and lists for Kyoto: the places critics, chefs and locals keep recommending, checked and kept current, with what to order at each. Nobody pays to be on them.
More in Kyoto
Ice cream in other cities
Places change: check hours before you go. Pins come from addresses and OpenStreetMap and can be a little off. Updated October 25, 2026.