Pontocho and Kamogawa River

Pontocho stretches from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori. This narrow lane runs parallel to the Kamo River along its entire length. It's safe to say that everyone in Kyoto knows this street, since it's both a popular spot for eating and drinking and a very relaxing riverside area to stroll in the evening. If you're looking for restaurants with a great atmosphere, we highly recommend coming here, since both sides of the street are lined with restaurants, pubs, and bars, including many yakitori (grilled skewer) spots. Most shops are open from evening until late at night, with only a few open during the day, which isn't necessarily a bad thing — visiting during the day gives a different kind of mood. But the best time is definitely in the evening. The restaurants right along the Kamo River, located on the right side of Pontocho street, offer an incredibly romantic atmosphere. You may pay a few hundred to a few thousand yen, but the view is priceless.

The best time to visit this area is probably from May to September, when the riverside restaurants set up temporary deck platforms. These decks make the experience even more enjoyable, giving an open-air dining feel, and it's something both beautiful and relaxing that you really can't find anywhere else. These temporary decks in this area are called "Kawayuka," and they're extremely popular, especially on Friday and Saturday nights when restaurants get completely packed. We highly recommend checking availability and booking ahead if you're visiting during this period, or you may be disappointed.

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Besides being a popular spot in the city for eating and drinking, as mentioned earlier, this area is also popular among locals who come to relax along the Kamo River. Some people buy snacks and sit by the water enjoying a relaxed drink, and it's just as good as being at a restaurant, especially when the sun is setting and the colors of the sky are beautiful. Another period when it gets very crowded is spring, since the opposite bank of the Kamo River is lined with cherry trees along its entire length, making this area another beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot in Kyoto. With so much in one place, the area is as worth visiting as any of Kyoto's famous cultural attractions.