Pontocho (先斗町) is a narrow alley located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. It runs parallel to the Kamogawa River and is lined with traditional Japanese restaurants and tea houses, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Pontocho has a long history dating back to the 16th century, when it was established as a hanamachi or a district where geisha lived and worked. Today, it still retains much of its traditional charm, with many of the restaurants and tea houses featuring traditional Japanese architecture and decor.
One of the unique features of Pontocho is its private rooms, which are often located on the upper floors of the restaurants and tea houses. These private rooms offer a more intimate dining experience and are often reserved for special occasions or business meetings.
Pontocho is also known for its evening entertainment, with many of the restaurants and tea houses featuring live performances by geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) during the evening hours.
Getting there
By Train
From Keihan Electric Railway:
- Get off at Gion-Shijo Station or Sanjo Station
- 5-10 minute walk to Pontocho
From Hankyu Railway:
- Get off at Kawaramachi Station
- 5-10 minute walk to Pontocho
From Kyoto Station:
- Take the Karasuma Line subway to Shijo Station
- Transfer to Hankyu Railway and go to Kawaramachi Station
- 5-10 minute walk to Pontocho
By Bus
From Kyoto Station:
- Take bus 4, 5, 17 or 205 to Shijo Kawaramachi bus stop
- Short walk to Pontocho
On Foot
- 35-minute walk from Kyoto Station
