Nishiki Market

Fondly referred to as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen,’ the Nishiki Market is a food paradise like no other, and is one of the best places to visit in the city. With five long blocks dedicated to local food and souvenirs, this shopping address is quintessentially Japanese. You can lay your hands on everything from fresh produce, pickles, seafood, fried goodies, crackers, candy, Matcha Tea, Sake, kitchenware, and local cosmetics. Located parallel to the bustling Shijo-dori, Nishiki Market is also great for those who love to indulge in some people-watching. The one thing you must absolutely know is that you will never go hungry while strolling around this massive arcade, as free food samples are generously handed out to visitors at almost every step. Everything is moderately priced and bargaining is not really encouraged.

Expect to be greeted by an overwhelming number of flavours, smells, sights and sounds, and do come to terms with the fact that you will end up shopping a lot more than you intended to. If you get tired of all that retail therapy, several cafes and restaurants can be found around the blocks that serve everything from Japanese to Western fare. Most stalls of the Nishiki Market are open from 9:00 am till 6:00 pm, and it is a five minute walk from the Shijo Station along the Karasuma Subway Line.