Bar C'estbon (セボン) Bars & Clubs in Kyoto – GayOut Guide
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Bar C'estbon (セボン)

Google (35) 4.9
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98
/ 100
GayOut Score
G4.9
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Address
201 Shimo-Korikicho, Pontocho-dori Shijo-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8016 (京都市中京区先斗町通四条上る下樵木町201)
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Website
cestbon-kyoto.com

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About this place Bar C'estbon (セボン)

Bar C'estbon is a small karaoke bar in one of the narrow back alleys of Pontocho, the lantern-lit lane along the Kamo River in central Kyoto. It is described as a former gay bar that now runs as a gender-mixed, queer-friendly karaoke bar rather than a men-only gay bar. Like most Pontocho bars it is a tight counter space, so a handful of customers fills it and there is usually a seat charge. It works for visitors who want an easygoing night of singing rather than a Kyoto members-only counter bar. Hours are not in our data; check the website before going.

Features

Gay-friendly (straight venue) Karaoke Mixed ethnicities Chill / Relaxed Touristy Local favorite Karaoke bar Evening venue Late night (after midnight) Gay-friendly (straight venue)

Insider Tips

Community Reviews

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Google Reviews

Verified by Google
4.9
★★★★★
35 reviews

Based on 35 Google reviews.

Ivan
Ivan May 2026
★★★★★

A wonderful hidden gem. The drinks were tasty and the bartender and staff were so kind and attentive.

Tanvi Reddy
Tanvi Reddy Apr 2026
★★★★★

I’m just here for the gays and a good time

보리둥절
보리둥절 Feb 2026
★★★★★

Dear owner!! That day was such a fun and happy time. It's such a wonderful memory that I still think about it occasionally. If I have the chance, I'll definitely go again! Until then, please take care of yourself and stay healthy.

Paul Gallet
Paul Gallet Nov 2025
★★☆☆☆

Some French people at a nearby table were feeling very uncomfortable. They each paid a 2,000 yen entrance fee and ordered a bottle of beer (4,000 yen), bringing the total bill to 12,000 yen. When they looked at the bill, they saw that two glasses of water were listed as 2,000 yen each. Despite them politely asking for an explanation, the owner loudly yelled at them to "get out!" and threatened to call the police. I was watching from nearby and felt a very uneasy atmosphere. I'm always impressed by the honest and friendly service in Japan, so it was very disappointing to see them treated like this. I was sitting nearby when two French customers had a very unpleasant experience. They each paid a 2,000¥ entry fee and shared one bottle for 4,000¥, but when the bill came, they were charged a total of 12,000¥. The receipt showed two glasses of water billed at 2,000¥ each. Even though they politely asked for clarification, the owner became extremely aggressive, shouting “Go home!” and threatening to call the police. Watching the scene, I felt very uncomfortable. I’ve always admired how polite and honest service is in Japan, so seeing this kind of behavior was deeply disappointing.

Aidan Toole
Aidan Toole Oct 2025
★★★★★

We had a great time!

Khang Tran
Khang Tran Aug 2025
★★★★★

best gay bar in kyoto, owners are super friendly and fun, we had fun with karaoke as well!! definitely a must!!

Segelyacht SONNTAG
Segelyacht SONNTAG Aug 2025
★★★★★

fun night!

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20 reviews so far — add yours

Last updated on 17 October 2026

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