Travel Guide to Pontocho Park

Getting There

• Car

  If you are driving, start by heading to the center of Settsu. Use a GPS navigation system and input the address: 先斗町通, １４５, Umenokicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8012. The drive will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Once you arrive in Kyoto, look for parking near Pontocho Park. There are several public parking lots in the vicinity, but they typically charge around ¥500 to ¥1000 per hour.

• Public Transportation - Train

  To reach Pontocho Park using public transportation, first, head to the nearest train station in Settsu. Take the JR Line (Kansai Line) to Osaka Station, which should take about 15 minutes. From Osaka Station, transfer to the JR Kyoto Line and travel to Kyoto Station, which takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Shijo Station. Exit the station and walk towards the Kamo River. Follow the river north until you reach the entrance of Pontocho Park, which is located along Pontocho Alley. The total travel time will be approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and train fares will cost around ¥800.

• Public Transportation - Bus

  Alternatively, you can take a bus from Settsu to Kyoto. Locate the nearest bus stop in Settsu and take the bus bound for Kyoto Station. This journey usually takes about 40 minutes. Once at Kyoto Station, follow the same instructions as above: take the Karasuma Subway Line to Shijo Station. Exit and walk towards the Kamo River to reach Pontocho Park. The bus fare is typically around ¥600.