Pontochō

先斗町

One of Kyoto's most traditional nightlife districts, the restaurants here run the gamut for super-exclusive geisha houses to common yakitori bars. Many have pleasant open-air riverside terraces. Rule of thumb is, any establishment with a menu and prices outside is OK, but others are best skipped.

• history

Address

中京区柏屋町１６８

Getting there

a narrow lane running from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori, one block west of the Kamo River

Phone

070-2221-9802

Website

japan-guide.com (opens in a new tab)