Whether it is the clacking of a geisha’s geta, or the pitter patter of raindrops in May, the sounds and sights of this a cobbled stone walkway are sure to enchant you. Located by the riverbank of the Kamogawa and moments away from Gion; this laneway awakens each evening with the first visits from Geisha houses nearby. Filled with hole in the wall izakayas, bistros and high class eateries with water views, this magical place is perfect to have your first meal in Kyoto. There are also several bars and jazz clubs, and even late in the evening, the place is abuzz with activity.
- 1 min read
Pontocho after Dark
The mysteries of the floating world
By Hoyee Tse
Community writer
Join the discussion
Wouter Thielen
8 years ago
I went to Pontocho last weekend, and it has been an absolutely terrific experience. So many small restaurants, hard to choose from, a lot of sukiyaki and shabu-shabu restaurants for about 5000 yen per person. The one we went to, Idumoya (いづもや), right at the beginning of the street on the south side, has a beautiful view over the Kamogawa river. They displayed their menu samples in a spacious display, and there was much to choose from. Tatami mats cover the restaurant, so you need to have flexible knees, but they offer stools for older people to sit on. Also, at Idumoya the sukiyaki and shabu-shabu sets are only offered when you order it for at least 2 people.
Veronika Tomanova
8 years ago
Great photo - I would have no idea what to eat first.
2 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Find and book quality accommodations for your next trip to Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Extraordinary Experiences in the Great Nature of Izu-Oshima, the Closest Island From Central Tokyo
Tokyo - Sponsored -
2
2-Day Hachijojima Retreat: Recharge Your Mind and Body
Tokyo - Sponsored -
3
Discovering Cinnamoroll in Shinagawa City
Tokyo - Sponsored -
4
Convenient Bus Travel From Narita Airport to Tokyo Station
Transportation -
5
Miyoko Schinner’s Vegan Japan Tour
Culture -
6
At Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum
Hyogo -
7
Tokyo DisneySea "Fantasy Springs"
Chiba -
8
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan-Inspired Travel Activities
Guide -
9
Hokuriku Shinkansen Extends to Tsuruga, Fukui
Fukui -
10
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan-Inspired Culture & Nature Trips
Guide
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
3
Hachiko Statue in Shibuya
Tokyo -
4
Shibuya Crossing
Tokyo -
5
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
6
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
7
Guide to PASMO Cards
Guide -
8
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
9
Kirby Cafe Tokyo
Tokyo -
10
Taylor Swift Eras Tour
Tokyo