22M moving to Kyoto for a corporate job–How is the dating/community scene for English speakers?

Hey everyone,

I’m a 22M moving to Kyoto this October to start a full-time role at a Japanese MNC. I’ve already been in Japan for four months for an internship, so I’m familiar with the basics, but I’m still a beginner at Japanese (working on it, but definitely not conversational yet).

I’ll be moving there alone and I’m a bit worried about the social/dating aspect. I checked out a few clubs on Kiyamachi Street during my internship, but it felt very closed off, mostly Japanese groups sticking to themselves.

I’m looking for some honest takes on:

1. The Dating/Hookup Scene: How is it for English-speaking expats in Kyoto? Is it mostly app-based (Tinder/Bumble), or are there specific spots where people actually mingle?
2. Community: Where can I find a solid group of English speakers or internationally-minded locals? I’d love to find a community so I’m not just a work hermit.
3. The Kyoto Vibe: I’ve heard Kyoto can be a bit more conservative/exclusive than Osaka or Tokyo. Is that true for the nightlife too?

I’m stoked for the job, but I don't want to spend my first year in a bubble. Any advice on bars, groups, or "unwritten rules" would be huge.

Cheers!