Six Senses Kyoto is giving its signature cocktail bar a fresh perspective with the appointment of Olivia Lee as Bar Manager and the introduction of a new menu inspired by Kyoto’s history, flavours and traditions.
Hidden within the hotel, Nine Tails takes its name from the nine-tailed fox, a powerful figure in Japanese folklore. The intimate speakeasy balances a sense of mystery with the thoughtful, wellness-minded approach associated with Six Senses.
Under Lee’s direction, that concept is evolving with a stronger emphasis on Japanese ingredients, craftsmanship and storytelling.
Lee brings nearly a decade of hospitality experience in Singapore and Japan. She began her career at Colony at The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore before moving into the world of cocktails at the hotel’s acclaimed Republic Bar. During her time there, Republic earned recognition among both Asia’s 50 Best Bars and The World’s 50 Best Bars.
At Nine Tails, Lee is drawing on that experience while keeping Kyoto firmly at the centre of the story.
A Taste of Kyoto
The bar features more than 100 Japanese and Japan-made spirits and liqueurs, forming the foundation for a menu that explores the region’s flavours and character.
Among the highlights is the Roasted Leaf, a Japanese interpretation of an Old Fashioned made with Chita Single Grain Whisky infused with smoky Kyoto bancha and hojicha teas.
For something lighter, the Shiso Breeze reimagines the classic gin and tonic using Kyo Wakan Dry Forest Gin, a Kyoto-made wellness gin incorporating 24 Asian medicinal botanicals.
Tea appears throughout the menu alongside distinctly Japanese ingredients including yuzu, herbs and seasonal fruit.
“Nine Tails is a reflection of Kyoto itself, where centuries of craftsmanship, culture, and natural beauty exist alongside a spirit of creativity and innovation,” says Lee.
Her goal is to create a bar that feels sophisticated without becoming overly formal, welcoming both serious cocktail enthusiasts and guests simply curious to experience a different side of Kyoto.
Beyond the Cocktail
The food menu has also been refreshed to complement the drinks, with small plates designed for lingering.
New offerings include sea urchin and tuna sushi rolls, Japanese beef sirloin katsu bites and Kyoto cage-free egg caramel pudding, bringing together familiar Japanese flavours with a contemporary presentation.
Sustainability and local sourcing remain part of the experience. House-made cola and ginger ale join a selection of thoughtfully crafted non-alcoholic cocktails, making Nine Tails as approachable for guests seeking a zero-proof drink as those exploring Japanese whisky or gin.
Guests who want to go deeper can also join hands-on mixology and Japanese whisky workshops, exploring cocktail-making techniques, regional flavour profiles, and the distinctive characteristics of Japan’s celebrated whiskies.
The renewed Nine Tails experience is part of a broader expansion of programming at Six Senses Kyoto in 2026, including culinary workshops, new wellness offerings and celestial-inspired Full Moon gatherings.
Together, the additions reflect the property’s approach to contemporary hospitality: rooted in place, attentive to wellbeing and designed to encourage guests to engage more meaningfully with Kyoto.
For reservations and more information, visit Six Senses Kyoto.
