Rows of restaurants in traditional wooden houses lined the narrow alley, which you can still get to feel the old charm of Kyoto. Definitely safe for a lady to be walking alone at night. More

Pontocho Alley is one of the most famous streets in Kyoto, especially following books such as Memoir of a Geisha as it is where some of the original Ochaya (Gishe houses) were based. Now however, it has been taken over by neon restaurants, bars and signs leading to brothels or the more ambiguous "massage parlours". If you want to see... More

We were exhausted after half a day's walk from Kiyomizu Temple to Yasaka Shrine. We stopped for dinner and continue our search for Pontocho. Once out of Yasaka Shrine, one would see a T-junction sort of traffic lined with taxis in abundance and restaurants. Cross the road and walked straight ahead for about 15 min to reach the canal. Right... More

we went to pontcho hoping to see geishas. i know, it's childish, but me and my friends, we wanted to do it so we wandered around the nice area (full of many tiny restaurants) with our eyes open for anybody looking out of the ordinary. when we were 10 meters away from the end of the tour and 10 seconds... More

Pontocho is a thin alley full of restaurants and bars. Even if you don't eat/drink here it's a beautiful wander, especially at night. Pontocho is located in Gion, right near Shijo-dori the main street. If you're in Gion, it's close. It's also located near to Shimbashi-dori, a perfect place for a stroll after a drink or dinner on Pontocho. More

very cute street with lots of different bars/restaurants. didn't have a lot of time but jumped inside for a quick yakitori dinner - really worth seeing at night (but you do need to stop and have a bite or at least a beer somewhere!). More

An interesting alleyway lined with night spots and restaurants. Definately try one of the traditional Japanese restaurants. Find one with pictures on the menu and point. Be brave! The alley continues North of the Shijo too but this is a much seedier area. Don't miss the Badger Shrine, down an tiny alleyway leading away from the river about 200m south... More

Pontocho is conveniently located and is thriving with activity in the evening, especially within the drinking establishments. You're bound to find an izakaya there to suit your taste and pocket book. We were there last February and will visit again this April, but this time with my two daughters both of whom love Japan for its culture and tradition. If... More