Ponto-chō, Entertainment district in Downtown Kyoto, Japan
The narrow alley of Pontocho stretches along the Kamo River, featuring wooden buildings with traditional architecture and lantern-lit entrances.
Established in 1674, Pontocho evolved from a small path into a center for entertainment and dining, maintaining its original street layout and structures.
The district preserves traditional teahouse practices where geiko and maiko perform classical Japanese arts and ceremonies for select patrons.
Restaurants in Pontocho operate from 5 PM to 11 PM, with many establishments offering riverside dining platforms from May through September.
The eastern side restaurants construct wooden platforms over the Kamo River during summer months, providing traditional dining experiences above flowing water.
Location: Nakagyō Ward
Inception: 1674
GPS coordinates: 35.00796,135.77111
Latest update: September 23, 2025 13:13
Explore the monuments of Kyoto, including Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, imperial palaces, feudal castles, traditional gardens, and historic districts. This former imperial capital features UNESCO sites such as the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari Shrine, as well as modern cultural places like the Manga Museum and Kyoto Station.
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