Best Shopping Areas in Kyoto

From bustling shopping complexes to charming local shops and vibrant markets, Kyoto offers a shopping experience like no other. This guide introduces you to the city's top shopping avenues and unique boutiques.

1. Shopping Centres

a) Kyoto Station Building

This shopping area offers a wide selection of stores selling electronics, fashion, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Don't miss the "Kyoto Ramen Koji" at 10F where you can taste ramen from all over Japan.

b) Teramachi and Shin Kyogoku Shopping Arcades

These adjoining indoor shopping streets are a delight for shoppers with numerous shops selling clothes, books, and local crafts.

2. Markets

a) Nishiki Market

Often referred to as "Kyoto's Kitchen", Nishiki is a bustling food market offering everything from fresh seafood to local specialties like pickles and matcha-flavored delights.

b) Toji Temple Market

Held on the 21st of every month, this is one of the largest flea markets in the city. Here you can find antiques, local crafts, food stalls and even clothes.

3. Local Shops

a) Aritsugu

Established in 1560, Aritsugu is a renowned knife shop where you can find the finest quality Japanese knives, a great souvenir for the cooking enthusiast.

b) Ippodo Tea

This historic shop founded in 1717 sells a wide range of high quality green tea, matcha, and other traditional Japanese teas.

c) Kyo-ya

This old-school shop located in Gion offers an impressive range of traditional Kyoto crafts, including folding fans and hand-woven bamboo baskets.

4. Specialty Boutique Shops

a) Kyoto BAL

This shopping complex located near Kawaramachi station houses some of the world’s most popular brands as well as a few boutiques unique to Kyoto like the Japanese denim label, "Stevenson Overall Co".

b) Kagizen Yoshifusa Honten

This historic sweet shop, founded in the 17th century, specializes in 'Kyogashi', traditional Kyoto sweets. It's a must-visit for lovers of Japanese sweets.

c) Kamiji Kakimoto

This centuries-old washi paper shop located near Kyoto Imperial Palace sells richly decorated traditional paper, a unique and lightweight souvenir.