Is Kyoto Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Tap water in Kyoto, Japan, meets strict national safety standards set by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. It undergoes rigorous treatment and testing.
Water is chlorinated and filtered to remove contaminants, ensuring safety from microbial and chemical hazards. Local utilities monitor quality regularly.
Residents and visitors generally consider Kyoto tap water safe for drinking without boiling. Bottled water is optional, often preferred for taste or convenience.
Last checked: 2025-04-25
Japan is ranked as number 38 globally with a score of 78.7% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto's main tap water sources are surface water from the Lake Biwa Canal and rivers including the Uji River. These provide abundant freshwater.
Water is collected from these sources, then treated at purification plants to ensure safety and quality before distribution to consumers.
The Lake Biwa Canal system plays a crucial role, supplying a large portion of Kyoto's tap water through infrastructure developed in the late 19th century.
Kyoto Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Kyoto generally use treated tap water, which meets safety standards set by Japanese authorities. They are regularly maintained.
However, cleanliness and maintenance can vary by location. Users should check for visible cleanliness before use to ensure safety.
When in doubt, drinking bottled water or using personal water bottles with filtered water is a common precaution.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Kyoto. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.
Nearby Places
About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.