The Kamogawa Odori was established in 1872 (Meiji 5 in the Japanese calendar), and is held by the Pontocho Kabukai Association in the spring. Although there were periods during the Meiji Era and World War II where the event was canceled, it was re-established soon after the war ended, and continues to be held currently. From 1951 up to 1998, the event was held twice a year in the spring and the autumn, and with a number exceeding 184 performances (current as of 2023), it now boasts the greatest number of performances among the five Kyoto Hanamachi districts. Although the event has returned to being held just once a year in the spring, the elegant geisha and maiko entertain audiences with their two-part performance of the dance drama (part 1) and the pure dance (part 2). This charm has gained a good reputation overseas as well, attracting overseas celebrities such as Jean Cocteau and Charlie Chaplin. In the early Showa Era, the Kamogawa Odori began to evolve in its quest to not just protect traditions, but to always be modern, featuring western music and a young girls' revue.
182nd Kamogawa Odori Digital signage movie
Events such as the Kamogawa Odori and Suimeikai are held year-round at the Pontocho Kabukai Association. In addition to events unique to Hanamachi, geisha also participate in traditional events in Kyoto, serving as a flower-like accompaniment that carries tradition and culture.
Pontocho, counted among the five Kyoto Hanamachi districts, is a narrow street that runs along the north/south side of the Kamogawa river, from South Sanjo street up to Shijo street. It was originally a part of the Kamogawa river, but it was landfilled in 1670 as a part of levee protection construction for the Kamogawa and the Takasegawa rivers, and originated as being a part of the city streets.
- #5 – for Iwakura
#17 – for Kinrin Shako Mae
#205 – for Kawaramachi - Kitaoji Bus Terminal
All: Disembark at Kawaramachi Sanjo, 5 minute walk
- Take the Karasuma Line from Kyoto Station to Oike Station.→
Change to the Tozai Line, and disembark at the Keihan Sanjo Station. Take Exit 6, and from there it is a 5 minute walk.
- Costs about 1,000 – 1,200 yen from JR Kyoto Station.
- Keihan Railway – Disembark at Sanjo Station, take Exit 6 – 5 minute walk
Hankyu Railway – Disembark at Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, take Exit 1 – 10 minute walk
- Takes about 1 hour from the Meishin Expressway/Kyoto Higashi/Kyoto Minami Interchange.
Note: There is no parking lot at the Pontocho Kaburenjo. Please use one of the coin-operated parking lots nearby.