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Pontocho (Pontocho Alley) is a very distinctive alley in Kyoto. The street isn't very wide, but it is lined with many restaurants, izakayas, and small shops. Walking along the stone-paved street and looking at the Kyoto-style machiya townhouses gives it a charming old-fashioned feel.
Pontocho becomes even more atmospheric after dusk, when the shops' lanterns begin to light up. The narrow alleyways paired with traditional Japanese architecture create a very captivating atmosphere.
When visiting Kyoto, Pontocho is a street well worth taking your time to explore. It has been a bustling downtown district in Kyoto since the Edo period, and the street still retains a strong sense of old Kyoto. This time, I visited during the day. Without the lively nighttime crowds and noise, the street felt especially quiet and peaceful. Traditional machiya townhouses and narrow alleys line both sides, giving it a uniquely Kyoto charm. Strolling leisurely through the area and experiencing the atmosphere of daily life in the ancient capital has a charm of its own. It's also a great place to take beautiful photos.
Pontocho is close to Shijo Street, Shijo Kawaramachi, and the Kamo River, and is one of Kyoto's famous nighttime alleys. As the lights come on, many restaurants begin to open and the street gradually comes alive. There are many unique shops and restaurants to choose from along the way, and the area is full of Kyoto charm.
There are tons of izakayas and Japanese restaurants lined up here. The famous Yakiniku Fufutei also has a branch in this area. Many of the restaurants used to be old tea houses that have been converted.
The alley is quite narrow, lined with all kinds of Japanese restaurants on both sides. Tourists are constantly coming and going along this charming street.
