Nishiki Market

What to know before visiting Nishiki Market

What to eat at Nishiki Market

1. Tako tamago (octopus balls)

Try out the most iconic Nishiki Market food. It's a small baby octopus where you can find a quail's egg in the head. Plus, it's candied, making it a combination of salty and sweet!

2. Mochi

Mochi, a popular sweet found in supermarkets and street vendors, is a delightful sticky rice cake that comes in a variety of forms. Be sure to taste the different delicious variations of this traditional treat!

3. Goma dango (sesame dumplings)

Discover Gomafuku-do's sesame-covered mochi balls in sweet and savory flavors, including the popular black sesame. Located near the eastern end of Nishiki Market, this store specializes in sesame products like the fresh goma dango.

4. Fresh tofu

You'll find a variety of fresh tofu options, from trays of plain tofu to ready-to-eat snack versions. Try crispy age-tofu sheets or hearty atsu-age tofu, both delicious choices to enjoy on the go or take home for a meal.

5. Wagashi (Japanese sweets)

Wagashi are beautiful Japanese sweets made of mochi and sweet red bean paste. These delicate treats are enjoyed with tea and symbolize nature's seasons or elements in tea ceremonies.

What souvenirs to buy at Nishiki Market

1. Aritsugu knives

Choose from a variety of specialty knives, including all-purpose models, to find the perfect blade for your needs. Plus, personalize your knife with engraved initials for a unique touch!

2. Chirimen Crepe

Chirimen crepe, originally used for kimonos, is now popular in handicrafts like dolls, plush toys, decor, and accessories. These colorful and vibrant crafts are based on traditional Japanese themes like geisha, lucky cats, and zodiac animals. Make sure to grab these crafts in the market, as they're rare to find elsewhere in Japan.

3. Engraved chopsticks

Discover a variety of engraved chopsticks at Ichihara Heibei Shōten, offering affordable to luxurious options with different wood types and designs for engraving.

4. Pottery and ceramics

A popular souvenir in Japan, explore different kinds of pottery at Nishiki Market, from tea sets to chopstick holders. Choose from various designs, colors, and styles, with some shops offering international shipping.

Tips for Your Nishiki Market Visit

What is the best time to visit Nishiki Market?

Plan your visit to Nishiki Market when it opens at 10 a.m. for a delightful brunch experience. The market closes at 6 p.m., so aim to arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy a leisurely exploration.

How to get to Nishiki Market?

Easily access Nishiki Market via Kawaramachi Station or Shijō Subway Station. Consider taking a bus or subway from Kyoto Station for a convenient journey to this culinary paradise. You can also take the Karasuma Subway Line to Shijo Station or reach the market from Karasuma or Kyoto-Kawaramachi stations on the Hankyu Line.

What day is Nishiki Market Kyoto closed?\ Opening hours vary from store to store, but most shops are open from 9 am and 6 pm. As they are small, family-run businesses, take note that a number of the shops are closed one or more days each week, typically on Sunday or Wednesday.

Does Nishiki Market take credit cards?

While some shops may accept credit cards, many local vendors at Nishiki Market still prefer cash. It's best to have some yen on hand to make your purchases.