Pontocho Alley

The basics

Kyoto visitors come here to enjoy dinner in atmospheric surroundings with a river view (in summer, you can also dine alfresco), as well as the opportunity to spot geiko (as geisha are known in Kyoto) and apprentices (maiko) hurrying to their appointments. While most of the tea houses are difficult to gain entry to without a connection and a fat wallet, visitors will find a range of restaurants offering everything from inexpensive yakitori to modern cuisine.

To gain deeper insight into Kyoto’s dining and nightlife culture, you can visit Pontocho Alley on a guided tour. On a food-focused tour, guides will steer you toward the best eateries, help with language challenges, and prevent you from making any faux pas.

Things to know before you go

*Some restaurants in Pontocho Alley are strictly for residents; those that do welcome travelers typically have English menus.

*Photography of geiko and maiko is not permitted without explicit permission.

*Advance dinner reservations are recommended on Fridays and Saturdays.

How to get there

Pontocho Alley is a 3-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station, on the Hankyu line. The closest bus stop is Shijo Kawaramachi, which is served by lines 17 and 205 from Kyoto Station.

When to get there

Business hours and days vary among the restaurants and bars along Pontocho Alley, but most places are usually open nights (with many closing by 11pm). Some restaurants also open for lunch, but the atmosphere is better in the evening.

Gion Corner

Just a 10-minute walk from Pontocho Alley, Gion Corner is a great choice for some pre- or post-dinner entertainment. Here you can see performances of seven different types of traditional arts, including kyo-mai dance performed by maiko and geiko; the tea ceremony, flower arranging, and Bunraku puppet theater. Attending a performance is a great way to get acquainted with Kyoto’s traditional culture.