Kiyamachi Street and Pontocho Street run parallel to Kawaramachi Street, and they are among Kyoto’s most iconic nightlife areas.

Along Pontocho by the Kamo River, restaurants open noryo-yuka (riverside terrace seating), where you can enjoy dining while feeling Kyoto’s summer atmosphere.

Kiyamachi, on the other hand, is a popular nightlife spot among students and young people, with a wide range of establishments—from famous ramen shops to hidden coffee shops.

At the Takase River that flows nearby, you can enjoy cherry blossom illuminations in spring, the fresh greenery in summer, and the autumn foliage in fall.

Stroll through lively streets filled with historic charm and stylish modern shops

Shinkyogoku Street, one of Kyoto’s most bustling shopping areas, offers a pleasant walking route that stretches from Shinkyogoku to Sanjo Street.

The street is lined with Kyoto-style souvenir shops, trendy cosmetic boutiques, and popular fashion stores—making it a lively spot that attracts both students on school trips and local young people.

Along the way, you’ll also find temples with long histories, such as Seigan-ji, which is known as a temple that offers salvation for women.

If you continue walking toward Sanjo Street, you’ll encounter renovated modern buildings and small side alleys like Yanaginokoji, where cozy, stylish shops are tucked away. It’s a delightful area to wander, discovering one charming place after another.