Kamo River 鴨川

The banks of the Kamo River are a perfect getaway from the bustle of the city at any time of the day. Mingle with the locals on a morning walk along the river, have a picnic, dine at a nearby restaurant, and explore Pontocho Alley , where traditional culture and geisha still thrive.

You can easily reach the Kamo River by bus, subway or taxi from Kyoto Station .

The Kamo River stretches throughout Kyoto , with the stretch through the Pontocho area one of the most popular destinations.

During the day, the Kamo River buzzes with activity. People walking their dogs dominate the early morning hours. They are quickly joined by picnickers soaking up the sunlight. All day long the river is a favorite venue for joggers and cyclists.

The river and its surrounding area truly come to life in the evening. Lanterns cast bright reflections upon the river's surface and illuminate the streets with their gentle glow.

In the summer, you can have dinner al fresco on the large platforms overlooking the river. From this vantage point, you can gaze out at the distant mountains while basking in the twilight beauty of the city.

After dinner, take a stroll along the riverbank, with the illumination of lanterns and streetlights creating a timeless and romantic memory of Kyoto . Make time to explore Pontocho , which offers a glimpse into life in a past age of elaborately dressed geisha, refined performances, and subtlety.

Having a picnic on the banks of the river or patronizing one of the cafes that dot the riverbanks near the Pontocho area is an enjoyable and memorable way tp experience the riverside.