History of Ponto-cho, Historic entertainment district in downtown Kyoto, Japan.
The 500-meter pedestrian walkway runs between Shijo-dori and Sanjo-dori avenues, featuring wooden buildings with red lanterns and traditional restaurants on both sides.
The district emerged in 1670 through embankment works between Kamo and Takase rivers, developing into a licensed entertainment area with tea houses by 1712.
The Pontocho Kaburenjo Theater presents the annual Kamogawa Odori dance performances in May, where geisha and maiko demonstrate traditional arts.
Restaurants operate from 5 PM to 11 PM, with outdoor platforms called kawayuka extending over Kamo River from May through September.
The name combines Portuguese 'ponte' meaning bridge and Japanese 'cho' meaning district, reflecting the area's historical connection to river commerce.
Location: 下京区
Address: Kashiwayacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8014, Japan 604-8014 Kyoto
GPS coordinates: 35.00392,135.77105
Latest update: April 20, 2025 09:36
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