First, we were told Chaochao makes the best gyoza in Kyoto (thanks Sandy). Here’s us outside waiting for our takeaway dumplings because the restaurant is tiny (as are most in Kyoto) and there was a long wait for a table for four. Get in early!

Ponto-cho is a narrow alleyway that runs parallel to the river and is lined with upmarket restaurants, lit by lanterns.

Kano-gawa is Kyoto’s main waterway. This is from the bridge.

Minami-za theatre.

The streets of Gion by the canals are beautifully lit.

The New Year’s celebrations continued at Yasaka-jinja, Gion’s guardian shrine.

Mmmmmm, octopus balls!

Yeah, they were delicious. (Katsuobushi (fish flakes) to top it off!)

The little shrine on Shimbashi-dori looks just as beautiful at night as in the day.