Pontocho Alley, nestled between the Kamogawa River and Kiyamachi Street, is one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric and iconic areas. This narrow, lantern-lit street stretches about 500 meters, offering a blend of traditional and modern Kyoto with its historic architecture, fine dining establishments, and vibrant nightlife. A visit to Pontocho is like stepping into a scene from old Japan, where the allure of Kyoto’s geisha culture meets contemporary culinary excellence.

Highlights of Pontocho Alley

Traditional Atmosphere
Pontocho retains its Edo-period charm, with wooden machiya buildings, paper lanterns, and narrow walkways that evoke the feeling of traveling back in time.

Dining with a View
Many restaurants along Pontocho offer kawadoko dining—open-air seating overlooking the Kamogawa River—during the warmer months (May to September). It’s one of the most romantic dining experiences in Kyoto.

Geisha Culture
As one of Kyoto’s hanamachi (geisha districts), you may catch glimpses of geiko (Kyoto’s term for geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha) gracefully making their way to evening appointments.

Tours of Pontocho Alley

While we don’t specifically visit Pontocho, our 1 Day Kyoto Heritage path does walk through it. Join today and discover the essence of Kyoto with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Gion district, Kennin-ji and Kodai-ji, and Kiyomizudera. Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates leading up Mount Inari, creating a mystical and unforgettable path. Next, immerse yourself in the traditional charm of Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, where you can wander through quaint streets lined with teahouses and possibly catch a glimpse of geiko and maiko. Conclude your journey at Kiyomizudera, a historic temple perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace and featuring the renowned Otowa Waterfall.

1 Day Tour

Kyoto Heritage Path – From Fushimi Inari’s Mystery to Kiyomizu Temple Majesty
Period	All year round
Time	09:00-17:00
Meeting Place	JR Kyoto Station
Adult Rate	¥17,800
Child Rate	¥13,000

Booking is as easy as clicking the link above and selecting your preferred date! If you would prefer, a private tour can also be arranged – please click the ‘Inquiry’ button below and we will get back to you as soon as possible!