At Pub Crawl Kyoto, we want you to enjoy Kyoto’s nightlife safely and responsibly. This page explains our approach to alcohol, your responsibilities as a guest, and key points about drinking in Japan.
Legal drinking age in Japan
In Japan, you must be 20 years or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages.
Under‑age drinking is prohibited by law, and there are penalties for businesses and individuals who provide alcohol to persons under 20.
At the meeting point, before we hand out wristbands and the crawl begins, we check valid photo ID (passport, residence card, Japanese driver’s licence, or equivalent government‑issued ID). If you cannot prove that you are at least 20 years old, we will refuse participation without a refund.
No drinking and driving
Never drink and drive. Japan has strict drink‑driving laws and a low legal blood alcohol limit.
You must not drive or ride a bicycle after drinking during the crawl.
Please use public transport, taxis, or walk to and from the event. If you are unsure how to get back safely, ask our host for assistance.
Enjoy alcohol in moderation
Japanese health authorities publish guidelines showing that even moderate amounts of alcohol increase health risks, and recommend keeping consumption as low as possible.
When you join Pub Crawl Kyoto, please:
- Pace yourself and drink slowly, especially during “all‑you‑can‑drink” warm‑up sessions.
- Eat before or while drinking, and drink water or soft drinks between alcoholic drinks.
- Avoid binge drinking or “chugging” contests — we do not tolerate pressure to drink large amounts in a short time.
- Listen to your body. If you start feeling unwell or overly intoxicated, tell the host immediately and stop drinking.
Our hosts may cut off alcohol service to any guest who appears overly intoxicated, for their own safety and the safety of others.
Respect for venues and local community
We visit local bars, izakaya, and clubs that operate within Kyoto’s neighborhoods and entertainment districts.
To keep a good atmosphere and respect the local community:
- Follow each venue’s rules about seating, smoking, noise, dress code, and photography.
- Keep noise at a reasonable level when walking between venues, especially in residential areas and narrow alleys.
- Treat staff, other guests, and local residents with respect at all times. Aggressive, abusive, or discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated.
Guests who ignore host instructions or venue rules may be removed from the event without a refund.
Health and medical considerations
Alcohol affects people differently depending on age, body type, health, and medication.
Before joining a crawl:
- If you have medical conditions, take medication, or have been advised to limit or avoid alcohol, consult a medical professional in advance.
- Tell the host discreetly if you have any limitations or concerns so they can support you.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding guests should not drink alcohol, in line with health guidance.
If at any point you feel dizzy, nauseous, or otherwise unwell:
- Stop drinking immediately.
- Inform the host, who will help you sit down, get water, and, if necessary, arrange assistance or a safe way home.
- In serious cases, we may call emergency services.
No pressure to drink
We want everyone to feel comfortable and safe:
- You never have to drink more than you want, and you can choose non‑alcoholic options at any time.
- Do not pressure others to drink, tease them for drinking less, or encourage dangerous drinking games.
- Our hosts may intervene if they see guests pushing others to drink beyond their comfort level.
Under‑age guests and non‑drinkers
Our pub crawls are designed for adults who can legally drink, but we understand some guests may accompany friends without drinking:
- Participation is limited to guests aged 20+, even if they do not plan to drink alcohol, due to the nature of the event and venue rules.
- Non‑drinkers are welcome to join and enjoy the social experience, music, and atmosphere, but must still follow all safety and behaviour rules.
Our commitment
Pub Crawl Kyoto is committed to:
- Promoting safe, respectful, and enjoyable nightlife in Kyoto.
- Working with venues that value responsible service and guest safety.
- Updating our practices in line with Japanese laws and official health guidance on alcohol, including national “Guidelines for Health‑Conscious Drinking”.
If you have any questions or suggestions about responsible drinking or safety on our events, please get in touch via email at [email protected], WhatsApp, or LINE — see the Contact section on our homepage.