Pontochō

Ponto-chō is a Hanamachi district, which literally translates as "flower town." This name is a Japanese way of saying that there are geisha houses to be found in a district. There are also plenty of traditional Japanese tea houses.

In this district, dating back to the 16th century, it feels the time has stood still since the beginning of the 20th century. Empty and quiet during the day, its streets start bustling with life after sundown. You can still pass traditionally clad geisha or a maiko (geisha in training) here.

The closest public transport stations are the Shijo Kawaramachi Station for buses and the Kawaramachi Station or Shijo Station for trains.