Pontocho
先斗町
A narrow stone-paved alley on the west bank of the Kamo River, lined with tea houses and high-end restaurants under rows of lanterns. In summer, riverside terrace dining is available over the water.
Pontochō is one of Kyoto's five geisha districts. Running from Shijō-dōri in the south to Sanjō-dōri in the north, this stone-paved alley is about 500 meters long and only about 2 meters wide. Its sides are lined with wooden tea houses, high-end restaurants, izakaya, and bars, and the lanterns create a distinctive atmosphere at night. From May to September, restaurants along the Kamo River set up 'noryo-yuka' riverside terraces, where you can enjoy Kyoto cuisine while watching the river. Every May, the Pontochō Kabukai hall stages the 'Kamogawa Odori' dance performance. The alley is open to walk at any time. Most restaurants open in the evening, and popular ones require advance reservations. Please do not photograph geiko or maiko without permission.
Opening hours
Open all day; restaurants mostly open after 17:00
Nearby sights
- Gion & Hanamikoji Street
- Nishiki Market
- Yasaka Shrine
- Kodai-ji
- Chion-in
- Heian Jingu
- Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
- Kiyomizu-dera