Pontocho Alley

The pontocho (先 斗 町, pontochō) is one of the most atmospheric dining areas in Kyoto. It is a narrow lane that runs from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori, one block west of the Kamogawa River. The alley is full of restaurants on both sides, offering a wide variety of dining options, from inexpensive yakitori to traditional and modern Kyoto cuisine to foreign cuisine and highly exclusive eateries that require the right connections and a tight budget.
Most of the restaurants along the east side of the alley overlook the Kamogawa River. From May to September, many of them build temporary platforms over the flowing water, where guests can dine outdoors. This type of food, known as Kawayuka, is designed to overcome the summer heat and is a great way to try traditional Kyoto cuisine while enjoying the cooling effects of the running water and the lively summer vibe.

»Pontocho« is a narrow alley with many restaurants that leads from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori, a block west of the Kamogawa River. Most of the restaurants on the east side of the alley overlook the Kamogawa River.

From May to September, many of them build temporary platforms across the river where guests can dine outdoors. The flowing water creates a cooling effect that makes the summer heat in Kyoto more bearable. A great place to spend the summer evenings.

Comments above still hold true. Definitely worth a visit.
Some of the photos are a little dated, alley is newly paved and now looks more pleasant.