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Nishiki Market: Kyoto's Culinary Heart

Explore Kyoto's vibrant culinary scene at Nishiki Market, a historic marketplace offering fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional goods.

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Nishiki Market, a vibrant five-block-long shopping street in Kyoto, is known as "Kyoto's Kitchen". With over 100 shops and restaurants, it offers a wide array of food-related items, from fresh seafood and produce to knives and cookware. The market is a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Kyoto's culinary culture.

A brief summary to Nishiki Market

Local tips

  • Visit during the late morning or early afternoon for the most dynamic market atmosphere.
  • Bring cash, as some shops may not accept credit cards.
  • Be mindful of the crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Try local specialties like fresh seafood, pickles, and Japanese sweets.
  • Refrain from eating while walking to respect local customs; find a spot to stop and savor your food.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Shijo Station. The ride is approximately 4 minutes and costs 220 yen. Nishiki Market is a short, five-minute walk east from Shijo Station. Alternatively, take the Hankyu Line to Karasuma Station or Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station, both a three-minute walk to the market.

  • Walking

    Nishiki Market is centrally located and within walking distance of many hotels in central and eastern Kyoto. It is about a 20-minute walk from Gion. From Shijo Avenue, walk one block north to Nishikikoji Street. The market is between Teramachi and Shinmachi Streets.

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Discover more about Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market, or Nishiki Ichiba, is a bustling marketplace in downtown Kyoto, stretching five blocks and home to over a hundred shops and restaurants. Known as “Kyoto's Kitchen,” this lively market offers a diverse range of food-related items, including fresh seafood, produce, Kyoto specialties, and kitchenware. The market's history dates back centuries, with the first shop opening around 1310 as a fish wholesale district. Officially recognized in the early 1600s, it evolved into a retail hub, offering a variety of food commodities. Today, many shops have been operated by the same families for generations, preserving traditional techniques and flavors. Visitors can explore the market's narrow arcade, sampling local delicacies and seasonal foods. From fresh seafood and pickles to Japanese sweets and sushi, Nishiki Market offers a feast for the senses. Some shops offer samples or small dishes to be eaten on the spot. While eating while walking is generally frowned upon in Japan, it's a common practice in Nishiki Market. Beyond food, Nishiki Market also features shops selling traditional goods such as knives, ceramics, and textiles. Aritsugu, founded in 1560, is renowned for its handcrafted knives. Nishiki-Tenmangu Shrine, located at the eastern end of the market, is a sacred site for students and scholars.

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