How to Plan Your Kyoto 3-Hour Bar Hopping Tour in Pontocho Alley

Kyoto, known as the cultural capital of Japan, has a lot to offer for tourists. Other than the famous temples and beautiful gardens, the city is also famous for its nightlife, especially in the Pontocho Alley. If you want to live like a local and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city at night, the 3-hour bar hopping tour in the Pontocho Alley is the perfect choice for you.

This tour is arranged by an experienced local guide who will take you to three authentic Japanese bars, including popular venues and hidden gems. You will be able to taste a selection of traditional drinks and dishes as well as some more experimental offerings. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour.

Experience

The tour is a great way to discover the vibrant nightlife of the Pontocho Alley in the company of an experienced local who knows the area well. You will get a chance to explore the narrow and mysterious alleyways of the Pontocho Alley, which are only accessible by foot.

The tour offers a unique atmosphere for tourists to experience the life of locals. You will be able to interact with the locals and get to know their culture and traditions. In addition, you will be able to taste a selection of traditional Japanese drinks and dishes, which will introduce you to the local tastes and flavors.

Highlights

The highlights of the tour include:

– Visit 3 authentic Japanese bars including popular venues and hidden gems
– Experience the night like a local and soak up the unique atmosphere
– Taste a selection of traditional drinks and dishes as well as some more experimental offerings

Full Description

The tour starts at the Izumo no Okuni statue at Gion Shijo Station. You will meet your guide there and set off for an exciting bar crawl through some of Kyoto’s best venues and hidden gems. The tour focuses on the vibrant Pontocho Alley, famous for its exhilarating nightlife and bursting with local bars offering specialty drinks and tasty dishes.

Throughout the tour, your local guide will ensure that you have the most exciting and authentic experience possible. All tour guides have either grown up in Kyoto or spent extensive time living here, meaning they know everything there is to know about the area and its nightlife.

The first stop is at a local tavern known as an ‘izakaya.’ Here, you will be able to relax and enjoy some of the local dishes, such as yakitori, while savoring local beer, sake, or shochu.

The second stop is a cocktail bar, which is a hidden gem located in one of the small alleys of Pontocho. The bar is known for its unique cocktails that are made with Japanese liquors and ingredients.

The final stop is at a late-night bar, where you will get to experience the life of the locals who work or study late at night while enjoying some of the creative and experimental drinks created by the passionate bartender.

Booking

If you are interested in booking the tour, you can do so by visiting https://www.getyourguide.com/kyoto-l96826/kyoto-3-hour-bar-hopping-tour-in-pontocho-alley-at-night-t298205/?partner_id=UWJ1LS2. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore Kyoto’s nightlife and culture. Book the tour here now!

Most Frequently Asked Questions about Kyoto

Kyoto, a city in Japan, is a perfect blend of ancient culture and modernization. It is a place that attracts thousands of tourists every year. The city has so much to offer in terms of breathtaking attractions, unique traditions, and cuisine. If you are planning to visit Kyoto, you might have some questions in mind. In this blog post, we have answered the most frequently asked questions about Kyoto.

1. What is the best time to visit Kyoto?

The best time to visit Kyoto is between March and May or September and November. During these months, the weather is comfortable, and the city is not crowded. These months are the ideal time to explore the city’s scenic beauty, do some outdoor activities and enjoy the local festivals.

2. How to reach Kyoto from Tokyo?

You can reach Kyoto from Tokyo by bullet train, popularly known as Shinkansen. It takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes to reach Kyoto from Tokyo by Shinkansen. Alternatively, you can also take a flight from Tokyo to Osaka, which is just an hour’s journey. From Osaka, you can take a train or bus to reach Kyoto.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Kyoto?

Kyoto is full of beautiful temples, gardens, and shrines. The most popular attractions in Kyoto are the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-Ji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Gion District, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Each of these attractions represents the rich culture and history of Japan.

4. Is it necessary to hire a tour guide in Kyoto?

It is not necessary to hire a tour guide in Kyoto, but it is highly recommended. A local guide can provide you with in-depth knowledge about the city’s culture and history, as well as take you to some off-the-beaten-path destinations. However, if you prefer to explore the city on your own, you can use a map or download a GPS-enabled app to guide you.

5. What is the local cuisine of Kyoto?

Kyoto’s local cuisine is known as Kyo-kaiseki, which is a traditional multi-course Japanese meal. The cuisine features fresh, seasonal ingredients and is presented beautifully. Sushi, Tofu dishes, and matcha desserts are some of the must-try items in Kyoto.

6. What is the dress code to visit temples and shrines in Kyoto?

To visit temples and shrines in Kyoto, you need to dress modestly. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothes are not allowed. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as you may need to walk a lot in some of the attractions.

7. What is the public transportation system like in Kyoto?

Kyoto has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The railway, bus, and subway network connects all the major attractions in the city. You can buy a one-day or two-day pass to access unlimited rides on trains and buses.

8. What are the local festivals in Kyoto?

Kyoto hosts numerous festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals are Gion Matsuri in July, Jidai Matsuri in October, and Aoi Matsuri in May. These festivals offer a glimpse into the local traditions and culture of Kyoto.

9. What is the etiquette to follow in Kyoto?

Kyoto has a rich culture and history, and it is crucial to respect it. Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, speak softly in temples and shrines, and do not touch artifacts or objects of cultural significance. It is also essential to follow the rules and regulations while using public transport and in public places.

10. Are there any day trip options from Kyoto?

Yes, there are many day trip options from Kyoto, such as Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Himeji. Each of these destinations is unique and worth exploring. You can take a train or bus from Kyoto to reach these places.

Conclusion

Kyoto is a city that is perfect for anyone who loves history, culture, and unique traditions. We hope that this post has answered some of your questions about Kyoto and has given you a good idea of what to expect when you visit this beautiful city. Remember to respect the local culture and traditions and immerse yourself in the local cuisine and festivals.