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Kyoto Shopping Guide: 15 Best Places to Shop in Kyoto

Shopping in Kyoto: Where Tradition Meets Trend

Shopping in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, can be a fun experience where every purchase tells a story and every alley hides a treasure. Traditional markets and modern malls come together inviting visitors to explore different sides of the city besides its most famous landmarks.

This guide uncovers 15 must-visit spots that showcase Kyoto’s unique retail landscape, promising everything from high-end fashion to local crafts and gourmet treasures. So the next time you visit the city and take a piece of Kyoto with you, you will know where to start! Here’s our list of the 15 best places to shop in Kyoto.

1. JR Kyoto Isetan

Standing tall within Kyoto Station, JR Kyoto Isetan (ジェイアール京都伊勢丹) is a landmark of luxury shopping in Kyoto. With floors dedicated to the latest in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products, it caters to the discerning shopper with a taste for elegance and quality. 

The store prides itself on a carefully curated selection of both international brands and local specialties, ensuring a shopping experience that includes both global trends and Kyoto’s cultural heritage. The food hall is also renowned for its array of gourmet delicacies making JR Kyoto Isetan a must-visit for anyone seeking the finest in shopping and dining.

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Directly accessible from Kyoto Station, Porta (京都ポルタ) is an underground shopping mall that pulsates with the energy of the city. It’s a labyrinth of over a hundred shops and restaurants, offering everything from trendy fashion to intricate handicrafts, making it a favorite among both locals and travelers. 

The mall’s layout is designed for ease of navigation, inviting visitors to meander through its wide corridors and discover hidden gems. It’s a convenient and diverse spot both for a quick meal between train rides or some leisurely shopping for unique gifts.

3. Omiyage Kaido JR Kyoto Station Chuo-guchi Store

Inside Kyoto’s transportation hub, the Omiyage Kaido JR Kyoto Station Chuo-guchi Store (おみやげ街道 JR京都駅中央口店) is the travelers’ most convenient gateway to Japanese tradition. Omiyage Kaido can be translated as Souvenir Road, so as the name indicates, this location offers a vast selection of souvenirs that capture the essence of Kyoto.

Here you can find from the best of the region’s artisanal craftsmanship like intricate Kiyomizu pottery, to delicate sweets like Yatsuhashi. All sorts of beautifully packaged gifts and snacks that can be swiftly purchased at the last minute right before departing from the station.

4. Kyoto Takashimaya

As one of Japan’s oldest and most respected department stores, Kyoto Takashimaya (京都タカシマヤ) is a symbol of sophistication and style. Spread across multiple floors, each level offers all kinds of items, from high-end fashion labels and cosmetics to exquisite home goods and toys. 

The store is renowned for its selection of traditional Japanese crafts, including kimono fabrics and tea ceremony utensils, making it a cultural treasure trove for those seeking authentic Japanese items. The top floor features a gourmet food hall, where shoppers can indulge in a variety of international cuisines and Japanese delicacies.

5. Daimaru Kyoto

Located near the historic Gion district, Daimaru Kyoto (大丸京都店) brings together the best of traditional charm and contemporary luxury. This department store is famous for its wide range of merchandise, from the latest fashion trends to traditional Kyoto crafts like Kyo-yaki ceramics and Nishijin textiles. The beauty department showcases an array of global and domestic cosmetics brands, catering to every beauty need.

This department store also hosts seasonal events and exhibitions so for the culture-conscious it’s always a good option to stop by. The basement food floor is a gastronomy heave, offering an extensive selection of sweets, bento boxes, and high-quality Japanese and Western delicacies.

6. Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden

In the heart of Kyoto’s bustling Kawaramachi district, Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden (京都河原町ガーデン) is a contemporary shopping center that offers a refreshing mix of fashion, lifestyle, and dining options. The mall’s modern architecture and garden-themed interior, complete with greenery and water features and inviting open spaces create a relaxed shopping atmosphere.

Dining options at Kawaramachi Garden range from casual cafes to sophisticated restaurants, offering both Japanese and international cuisine. This shopping center is a popular destination for young locals and tourists alike, looking for a stylish and convenient shopping experience in the heart of Kyoto.

7. Kyoto BAL

Kyoto BAL (京都BAL) is a symbol of contemporary lifestyle and fashion. This chic shopping mall, with its sleek, modern design, attracts a fashion-forward crowd with its selection of cutting-edge Japanese and international brands. The mall’s layout includes art galleries, and specialty stores where visitors can stroll at their own pace.

 Beyond fashion, Kyoto BAL offers an array of lifestyle and design shops, making it a hotspot for those seeking unique home décor and gifts. The rooftop terrace and its cafes provide a peaceful spot to unwind, offering panoramic views of the city — a perfect balance of shopping and relaxation in Kyoto.

8. Gion Shotengai

Gion Shotengai (祇園商店街) , in the historic Gion district, is a shopping street that takes you back in time. This charming area, known for its preserved machiya houses and narrow lanes, offers an intimate glimpse into Kyoto’s past. The shops here range from traditional tea houses and antique dealers to boutiques selling handmade crafts and kimonos.

Strolling through Gion Shōtengai, visitors can find exquisite pieces of pottery, handcrafted fans, and local sweets, each telling a story of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. The district’s atmosphere is particularly enchanting in the evening, when lanterns light up the streets, offering a shopping experience that feels like a scene from a bygone era.

Learn more about the Gion district in the following article!

▶Gion: Traditional Geisha District in Kyoto 

9. The CUBE

The CUBE , located in Kyoto Station, is a modern shopping complex and an ideal spot for those looking to make the most of their time in the city, offering a wide range of shops, from fashion and accessories to souvenirs and books.

Integrated with the underground shopping mall Porta in March 2023, the complex also boasts a variety of dining options, serving up everything from quick bites to gourmet meals, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a diverse culinary experience. The CUBE’s selection of specialty stores, offering traditional Kyoto crafts and contemporary goods, makes it a perfect place for a quick stop to find gifts and mementos.

10. Kawaramachi OPA

In Kyoto’s most dynamic shopping district, Kawaramachi OPA (河原町オーパ) is a modern retail haven that pulsates with youthful energy. This shopping center is a favorite among young fashion enthusiasts, offering a wide array of trendy apparel, accessories, and beauty products. Its vibrant, eclectic atmosphere is complemented by an assortment of dining options, from casual eateries to sweet shops, catering to every palate.

The interior design of Kawaramachi OPA, with its bright, open spaces, creates an inviting environment where shopping becomes a social experience. Regular events and pop-up stores add to the excitement, making every visit to Kawaramachi OPA a new adventure.

11. Kyoto Yodobashi

A paradise for tech aficionados, Kyoto Yodobashi (京都ヨドバシ) is an expansive electronics megastore that covers all things digital and gadgetry. With the latest smartphones and cameras, home appliances, gaming consoles, and everything in between, this is a one-stop-shop for cutting-edge technology.

Its extensive floor space is meticulously organized by category, allowing customers to easily navigate through the vast selection of products. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide expert advice, ensuring that shoppers make informed decisions. Beyond electronics, Kyoto Yodobashi also offers a selection of books, music, and a food court, making it a comprehensive shopping destination that caters to a wide range of interests and needs.

12. Kyoto AVANTI

Just a stone’s throw from Kyoto Station, Kyoto AVANTI (京都AVANTI) is a large shopping and entertainment complex. It attracts a diverse crowd with its mix of fashion stores, lifestyle brands, and cultural shops. The mall’s contemporary design and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to shop, dine, and unwind.

Kyoto AVANTI is particularly known for its selection of unique, independent boutiques that offer everything from trendy apparel to traditional crafts, providing a platform for emerging designers and artisans. The basement food court and various restaurants throughout the mall offer a taste of Kyoto’s culinary delights, rounding out the shopping experience with flavors that cater to every appetite.

13. Shijo-dori

The area around Kawaramachi and Gion-Shijo stations, in particular, is a hotspot for retail enthusiasts, with pedestrian-friendly streets and alleyways that invite leisurely exploration. Shijo-dori’s vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by street performers and seasonal decorations, making it a lively and engaging shopping experience at any time of the year.

14. Shinkyogoku Shopping Street

The bustling atmosphere is complemented by numerous snack stands and small eateries, offering quick bites and refreshments to energize shoppers. Shinkyogoku’s vibrant and eclectic mix of stores provides a fun and accessible shopping environment, perfect for those looking to explore the lighter, more playful side of Kyoto’s retail landscape.

15. Nishiki Market

The market’s rich history and tradition are evident in its energetic atmosphere and the array of traditional and family-owned businesses that have operated there for generations. 

Check out our experience at the Nishiki Market with a food tour!

▶Nishiki Market Tour: Food and Shopping Guide

+ Traditional souvenirs at Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

These two charming streets, Ninenzaka ( 二年坂 ) and Sannenzaka ( 三年坂 )  are a step back in time, offering a picturesque stroll through Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district. Lined with traditional wooden houses and stone-paved paths, the area is renowned for its quaint tea houses, artisan shops, and specialty stores selling a wide range of traditional Japanese souvenirs, from handcrafted ceramics and lacquerware to delicate incense and yukata.

The nostalgic atmosphere, enhanced by the occasional geisha sighting, makes shopping here a unique cultural experience. These streets are the perfect place to find authentic and high-quality mementos that capture the spirit and beauty of old Kyoto.

Check out more about these places in the following article!

▶Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka: Unspoiled Historical Alleys in Kyoto

Exploring Kyoto’s shopping districts is a fun retail therapy that immerses us in the city’s culture and traditions. It’s a way to learn about the local lifestyle, so shopping in Kyoto is also a good way to experience Japan’s old imperial city. 

For more information about shopping and traveling in Kyoto and other parts of Japan, check these articles below, too!

▽Related Articles▽

▼Editor’s Picks▼

Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.

Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Kyoto Shopping

Kyoto is famous for temples, but it’s also a shopper’s paradise. Here’s some Kyoto shopping tips and a list of the best shops in Kyoto, both traditional and modern.

Kyoto is a great place to buy traditional and modern Japanese goods. In fact, it’s probably easier to shop here than in places like Tokyo, because Kyoto is compact and most of the shopping is located right downtown, all within walking distance of the main subway stations.

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Where To Shop In Kyoto

There are two main shopping districts in Kyoto: The Kyoto Station area and Downtown Kyoto . Kyoto Station has a lot of shops right inside and underneath the station building, as well as some vast electronics and camera emporiums. Downtown Kyoto has several large department stores, hundreds of smaller shops and the famous Nishiki Market . All told, Downtown Kyoto is the best place to shop in Kyoto, especially when you consider the number of cafes and shops in the area.

What To Buy In Kyoto

Since Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan, it goes without saying that Kyoto is the best place in the country to buy traditional goods. Here are some examples:

• lacquerware
• washi (traditional Japanese paper)
• green tea and other Japanese teas
• yukata (light summer robes)
• martial arts goods
• wood-block prints

Of course, Kyoto is also a modern city and you can find plenty of modern fashions, electronics, camera goods etc.

Best Shops in Kyoto

Department stores.

• Daimaru Department Store : A great all-around department store with a fantastic basement food floor.
• Takashimaya Department Store : Another great all-around department store with a fabulous basement food floor and a superb restaurant floor.
• Isetan Department Store : Inside the Kyoto Station building, this is a good department store with two fine basement food floors.

Arts & Crafts Emporiums

• The Kyoto Handicraft Center : Art and craft emporiums and souvenir centers are usually tacky and touristy affairs, but this place is actually pretty good. I particularly like the woodblock prints here.

Best Kyoto Markets

The best markets in Kyoto are these three:

• Nishiki Market : Hands down the best food market in the city.
• Kobo-san Flea Market : Held at To-ji Temple on the 21st of each month.
• Tenjin-san Flea Market : Held at Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine on the 25th of each month.
• Nishiki Market : This food market is also a good shopping arcade with plenty of traditional souvenirs on offer.

Where To Find Traditional Japanese Goods In Kyoto

Washi (traditional japanese paper).

• Wagaminomise Morita Washi : My favorite washi shop in the city.
• Kamiji Kakimoto : Another excellent paper shop, right downtown.

The best places to look for ceramics are at the flea markets, the upper floors of the department stores, along Teramachi-dori between Marutamachi and Oike and in the streets leading up to Kiyomizu-dera Temple .

Japanese Knives

• Aritsugu : The best shop in town for superb traditional cooking knives. In Nishiki Market.

Lacquerware

• Zohiko : This is the best lacquerware shop in Kyoto. The upstairs is like a museum.

Japanese Tea

• Ippodo : A sumptuous tea shop with an attached café where you can sample the wares.

Cameras, Computers and Electronics

• Bic Camera : My favorite camera, computer and electronics shop in Kyoto.
• Yodobashi Camera : Similar to the above, but somewhat trickier to navigate.

Art and Antiques

• Robert Mangold Gallery : A superb gallery for serious collectors and passionate amateurs. The offerings span the eras and genres of Japanese art.
• Robert Yellin Yakimono Gallery : A must-visit gallery for fans of Japanese ceramics.
• Kyoto Art and Antiques : For a comprehensive rundown of Kyoto’s best art and antique shopping see my dedicated Kyoto Art and Antiques page.

If you’re shopping specifically for souvenirs, take a look at my Best Kyoto Souvenirs page .

Visiting Tokyo?

Be sure to check my Tokyo Shopping page on TrulyTokyo.com to compare what’s special about the shopping in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
• If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

• Central Kyoto
• Northwest Kyoto
• Northern Higashiyama
• Southern Higashiyama
• Downtown Kyoto
• Kyoto Station Area
• South East Kyoto

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Kyoto Shopping Guide

Kyoto features a unique mix of shopping , where modern, high-end fashion shops can be found alongside stores with centuries of history selling traditional Kyoto crafts or specialty foods. This is well expressed in the city's largest shopping district along Shijo Street in central Kyoto.

The shopping area along Shijo Street is centered around the intersection of Shijo and Kawaramachi streets where you will find the Takashimaya department store. A Daimaru department store, as well as high end fashion brands like Louis Vuitton, stand nearby. If you continue along Shijo Street across the Kamo River toward Yasaka Shrine , the large stores give way to smaller shops selling fashion and Kyoto specialty foods and crafts.

Branching off Shijo Street around the Kawaramachi intersection are the Teramachi and Shin Kyogoku shopping arcades. These two parallel running, covered pedestrian streets are packed with shops and restaurants selling clothes and goods and draw a younger crowd than the more upscale stores along Shijo Street. Also found in the area, Nishiki Market , a colorful narrow food market street known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", runs about a block off parallel to Shijo Street.

Kyoto's second largest shopping area is around JR Kyoto Station and includes the extensive Porta underground shopping mall, a massive Aeon shopping mall south of the station and big retailers such as a Bic Camera electronics store. The Kyoto Station building itself houses a large Isetan department store and "The Cube" shopping center with various souvenir shops, boutiques and restaurants.

For a more traditional, old Kyoto atmosphere head to the streets of the eastern Higashiyama District around Kiyomizudera where you will find a wide range of souvenirs, specialty foods and handicrafts, including the famous Kiyomizu-yaki pottery . This area's shops and restaurants have been serving travelers and pilgrims for centuries, and the district maintains its traditional feel with its narrow lanes, stone paved streets and wooden buildings.

For one stop souvenir shopping, check out the Kyoto Handicraft Center just north of Heian Shrine . The first floor of the Kyoto Handicraft Center features higher end items such as lacquerware, folding fans, damascene jewelry, armor and swords, while the upper floors have retailers selling more inexpensive souvenirs like kokeshi dolls, yukata and wood block prints .

Kyoto has also a few flea markets that are of interest to tourists. One is held on the 21st of every month at Toji Temple south of Kyoto Station while another is held on the 25th of every month at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine . Both are filled with vendors selling a variety of goods.

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Shopping and Souvenirs in Kyoto - What to Buy And Where

Most popular shopping areas, what to buy, some tips for shopping.

If you like shopping, you will love Kyoto. Kyoto used to be the old capital of Japan, and so it has a long history of high-quality shops, that nowadays is kept alive by the many shops and vendors you will find all over the city.

There are some extremely famous shopping areas, especially Shijo-dori and the Nishiki Market where you will find anything you might want to give to your friends back home: kimonos, green tea, woodblock prints, Japanese paper, and much more!

Check out our short guide and learn more about shopping in Kyoto!

• The most popular shopping street in Kyoto is Shijo-dori, always bustling with both, locals and tourists.
• If you feel nostalgic, head to the Higashiyama District, an old-fashioned neighborhood that you will love.
• The flea markets are a wonderful opportunity to buy rare and unique items.
• In Kyoto you will find plenty of shops selling signature Japanese souvenirs.
• Like yukata , woodblock prints, green tea, and much, much more.

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In Kyoto there are tons of places for shopping, and you might feel overwhelmed. To help you in your shopping adventures, we have gathered some of the best shopping spots of the city such as Shijo Street, the most popular place for shopping, and Nishkii Market, an 800-year-old market with hundreds of shops and restaurants.

Other popular places are the Kyoto Handicraft Center, the Higashiyama District, and the flea markets held once a month.

Shijo Street

Shijo-dori is the main street of Kyoto, always packed with locals and international tourists. There are tons of shops, mostly gathered between Kawaramachi-dori and Karasuma-dori. That is where you will find the famous department stores of Daimaru (with eight floors of cosmetics, jewelry, and fashion), Takashiyama, and Fujii Daimary.

On Shijo Street you will find everything, from food to clothing (especially kimono and yukata).

Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is one of those places that you cannot miss. The market started as a fish wholesale district around 1310. Today it is one of the most important markets in Kyoto.

It is a five-block marketplace with hundreds and hundreds of shops and restaurants, selling goods produced locally. You will find literally everything to do with food, from cookware to ingredients, the market is also known as Kyoto's Kitchen.

Strolling around the Nishiki Market, you can try the free goodies offered by the many stalls you will find. You can also eat something at the many small restaurants selling ready-made food.

Kyoto Handicraft Center

Kyoto, the seat of the Imperial Court for over 1000 years, has set the quality standards for Japanese arts and crafts, and today is the most important center for traditional Japanese crafts.

You will find all the crafts there that you might want to bring back home, such as:

• Pottery, with kiyomizo pottery being the most popular one
• Kimonos in Kyoto, there are two methods of manufacturing, silk weaving and silk dyeing
• Japanese dolls
• Folding fans, you will find the highest quality fans of the country
• Lacquerware, frequently used in tea ceremonies.

Higashiyama District

Maybe you want to get out of the city andvisit a quieter shopping place. Then, don't look any further and go to the Higashiyama District. Located in the sloping eastern mountains of Kyoto, the district is a traditional neighborhood, with wooden houses, cobblestone pathways and traditional shops, a unique way to get a glimpse of the old Kyoto capital.

There are tons of old-fashioned shops where you can buy pottery, souvenirs and delicacies. Shopping there, is a truly memorable experience.

Shin Kyogoko Arcade

Shin Kyogoko Arcade is the shopping place for the youngsters. It offers a huge variety for reasonably priced trendy clothes. This is the second oldest shopping strip in Kyoto (the first being Asakusa Nakamise). And if you decide to shop til you drop, as they say, you will find plenty of restaurants where to grab a delicious bite.

Flea Markets

To those interested in unique, unusual objects, we strongly recommend visiting the Flea Market on the Toji Temple grounds. The market is open on the 21st of every month, from dawn till dusk, with dozens of vendors selling almost anything you can think of, both new and second-hand. Every Sunday, instead, you will find antique dealers, all located in specific areas.

Another flea market you should check out (held on the 25th of every month) is the Tenjin-san flea market. There are more than 1,000 shops surrounding the shrines, selling pottery, toys, second-hand goods, food, kimonos, and much more. Kimonos and antique goods are the most popular items of the market.

After we have seen some of the best shopping places of the city, let's look at the best souvenirs you can bring back with you, from yukata to green tea, from washi to woodblock print. You will find shops selling only products of the highest quality.

Yukata is a casual summer kimono, usually made of light fabric, worn by both, men and women. Usually, when you visit a ryokan , you will be supplied with a yukata and we bet that it will be the most comfortable dress you have ever worn.

So, if you want to bring one back home, we suggest you check out the many department stores in Kyoto, especially the Daimaru and the Takashimaya department store, where you will find plenty of English-speaking shopping assistants.

Green tea is a must-try in Japan, and a lot of people like to pack some, so as to let their loved ones try back home. If you think about it, it is the perfect gift: affordable, easy to carry and delicious and healthy.

The most famous green tea shop is Ippodo, in business since 1717. They let you try the different teas they have and pick up the one you like the most.

Washi , the traditional Japanese handmade paper has been a product of Japan for more than 1300 years. It is thin and strong, and, of course, more expensive than standard paper. Like green tea, it is a unique, precious gift that is also easy to carry with you. All the shops will put the paper in cardboard tubes for safe transport.

Morita Washi is an institution of washi . You will find an incredible variety of paper and paper goods there, and you will spend hours browsing in their shop.

Lacquerware

The rest of the world has a long-lasting fascination with Japanese lacquerware, and rightfully so you just need to see high-quality lacquerware to understand its beauty and the amount of skills required to craft it. It is an expensive gift, a gift for that special person that you know, that can appreciate such a precious object.

Zohiko is arguably the best lacquerware shop in Kyoto. It is such a nice shop that it can be almost considered a museum, with extraordinary pieces of lacquerware that can cost several thousands of yen.

Woodblock prints

Woodblock prints are an exceptional piece of art to bring home, and you can do this for a very reasonable price, most places have them for about USD 30. They are perfect to frame and to hang on the wall in the nicest room of your house.

The Kyoto Handicraft Center is, of course, the place to go for some high-quality woodblock prints. Besides that, you can also attend a demonstration or take part in classes in block carving and printing.

When shopping in Kyoto, it is not that hard to get good deals at department stores like Isetan and Daimaru. Inside the Demachi Shotengai shopping arcade, you will find plenty of small shops selling everything.There are also lots of 100-yen shops, selling small, practical objects for the equivalent of a dollar fifty. The flea markets are also ideal for some good bargains.

If you bring your passport with you, you can prove that you are a tourist and then save the 8% sales tax that is added to every merchandise. There are also many tax-free shops; check them out!

When buying a kimono (or a yukata ) don't buy the first one you see. Try to avoid the expensive souvenir shops and head to the department stores.

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Explore Kyoto with Asia Highlights

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Where to go shopping in Kyoto

By Chris Schalkx

Kanaami-Tsuji

Best for: heritage homewear.

From his atelier at Kanaami-Tsuji near the Kodai-ji temple, tattoo -clad owner Toru Tsuji carries on the kyo-kanaami metal-weaving techniques his ancestors have been practising for three generations. Departing from the craft’s centuries-old traditions, he infuses his intricate designs with modern sensibilities, resulting in tofu servers, tortoise-pattern wire baskets and bamboo-handled tea strainers that are as pretty as they are durable. Even older is Naito Shoten, a traditional cleaning supplies store that has occupied the same wooden building just west of the Sanjo Bridge since 1818. Ryokan innkeepers and temple caretakers come here to buy shuro palm brooms and stiff-bristled scrubbers made from natural fibre which the store sources from carefully vetted artisans around the country.

Website: kanaamitsuji.net

Best for: ceramics

At Hisoca, a snug concept shop just west of the Imperial Palace, owner Kyoko Kawai selects mostly made-in- Japan ceramics, glassware, brass cutlery and other dining room fixtures that, in her words “make you happy”. Highlights on the wall-mounted shelves include earthen nabe pots (a Japanese hot pot with a lid), octagonal plates from Okayama, Osakan wooden trays and smoked-glass cups made by a local studio.

Website: hisoca-online.com

Good is Good

Best for: rotating exhibitions.

The minimalist Good Is Good, opened by an artist couple (he’s a painter, she makes sculptures from brass and plants) near the atelier-packed Kita-ku ward doubles as an art gallery, ceramics store and teahouse. Rotating exhibitions with works by the owners and their artistic friends dictate the store’s erratic opening hours.

Website: goodisgood-kyoto.com

Best for: contemporary designs

Craft gallery Saluk, in a small village on the way to the forest-fringed Kurama-dera temple north of town, is a pint-sized showroom for Kyushu-born owner Kanako Kai’s metalware, which she creates in her workshop at the back of the store. Among her contemporary designs are silver-laced chopstick rests and brass catchalls – but it’s the tin sake cups, sought after for their flavour-enhancing qualities, that most customers end up taking home. Beyond metal goods, the shop also stocks whimsical bowls and sculptures by Toyama-based glass artist Takaki Miyamoto and earthy ceramics from Hokkaido and notebooks bound in reclaimed kimono fabrics.

Website: saluk.jp

Best for: tea

Best described as a “bean boutique”, family-run Shuka specialises in just a handful of meticulously sourced seeds and beans – local adzuki beans, Indonesian cashews and black soybeans from Hyogo – which it boils, dries and coats in sugar varieties that match their flavour profiles.

Best for: matcha

For ceremonial grade matcha, concrete-clad Yugen is an approachable alternative to the slightly intimidating traditional teahouses. From behind a bar-like counter, the staff can advise you on their selection of locally grown matcha teas, while the bamboo whisks from Nara and ceramic tea bowls help you build out your expert-level matcha kit.

Website: shuka-kyoto.jp ; yugen-kyoto.com

Best for: neutral basics

Founded in 2015 by streetwear guru Takayuki Minami, Graphpaper and its boxy shirts straight-lined dresses and neutral-toned basics have garnered a loyal following among the fashion insiders of its native Tokyo . For this Kyoto outpost, the brand has taken over a 100-year-old traditional wooden machiya townhouse in the central Nakagyo-ku district and melded the building’s ancient timber skeleton with a Brutalist-looking concrete façade. At the rear of the shop, a moss-covered courtyard garden leads to the original kura storehouse, which now functions as a display room for the label’s sought-after capsules created with global streetwear brands including Mizuno and Is-ness.

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Website: graphpaper-kyoto.com

Best for: crafts

With POJ Studio (short for Pieces of Japan), co-owners Tina Koyama and Hana Tsukamoto aim to demystify the world of Japanese craft by bringing artisans and their stories together in a shoppable showroom. Pitched up in a timeworn machiya townhouse behind the Toyokuni Shrine in the east of the city, the space is a one-stop shop for rustic dinnerware, indigo-dyed noren curtains, and made-to-order furniture crafted from hinoki wood. The workshop upstairs hosts incense-making classes and kintsugi (repairing with gold lacquer) sessions led by a master craftsman.

Website: pojstudio.com

D&Department

Best for: timeless designs.

Taking over a wooden building on the grounds of the 14th-century Bukko-ji temple, concept store D&Department selects products based on timeless designs and long-lasting quality. Wares range from household goods to fashion and foodstuffs and are sourced from long-standing businesses around Japan’s 47 prefectures, such as nostalgia-inducing enamel coffee kettles from Tochigi, urushi lacquer bowls from Ishikawa and stationery made from washi paper in Toyama. Unsurprisingly, the shop puts a particular emphasis on products from around Kyoto, with highlights including tea from the city’s centuries-old Horaido teashop, urushi-coated drinking straws from local cedar wood, and all-natural dashi powders by Uneno, a kombu and bonito flake specialist established in 1803. The store transformed the temple’s former tearoom next door into a tatami-floored café, where it serves lunch sets that highlight seasonal local produce.

Website: d-department.com

Where to stay in Kyoto

The whip-smart Ace Hotel Kyoto eschews the city’s typically hushed and ryokan-inspired hotel designs in favour of a brazenly bold look drawn up by renowned architect Kengo Kuma and his team. In the double-height lobby, you’ll find young creatives hunched over laptops, sipping brews from Stumptown Coffee Roasters' first café outside the US. After work, they'll head upstairs to the copper-trimmed Piopiko restaurant, where Japanese-inflected tacos and tostadas come served under light fixtures by Kamaami-Tsuji. The rooms, spread over the brick-walled former Kyoto Central Telephone Office building and a straight-lined new wing, blend blond woods and washi paper lights with eye-popping 1960s textiles, Eames chairs and turntables with 1980s City Pop vinyls.

Insider intel

“One of my favourite restaurants in Kyoto is Fukuya . Its sabazushi, a local sushi with mackerel, is a must-order" says Takuya Tsutsumi, who uses urushi tree sap to create lacquered products.

“I often visit the Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design to get my creativity flowing. The collection includes a display of Kyoto’s 74 traditional crafts, from kyo-uchiwa fans to Buddhist household altars called kyo-butsudan.”

“When I want to wind down, I take a long walk along the Kamogawa River. I love going at sunset for the most magical scenes, especially in autumn .”

“The new Mon Wine Bar is one of the best spots to grab a drink. It doubles as a gallery with interesting exhibitions about art and design from around Asia.”

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Shopping in Kyoto: Top 16 Department Stores, Malls, and Shopping Streets

Kyoto, a popular travel destination in Japan, is ideal for shopping due to its wide array of department stores, underground malls, shopping centers, and local shopping districts. In this article, we introduce 16 recommended shopping spots in Kyoto.

Kyoto: The Ideal Place for Shopping

Kyoto has a strong image of being home to famous travel destinations such as Kiyomizudera Temple and Yasaka Shrine. However, Kyoto is also the perfect place for shopping!

In this article, we introduce Kyoto's best department stores, shopping centers, underground malls, and local shopping districts. These locations are concentrated along Shijo Street and Kawaramachi (Shijo Kawaramachi) and the Kyoto Station area.

Table of Contents:

Department Stores in Shijo Street and Kawaramachi 1. Kyoto Takashimaya 2. Daimaru Kyoto 3. Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden 4. Fujii Daimaru 5 Kyoto BAL 6. Kawaramachi OPA JR Kyoto Station Area: Shopping Malls and Department Stores 7. JR Kyoto Isetan 8. Kyoto Tower Sando 9. Kyoto Porta 10. Kintetsu Mall Miyakomichi 11. Kyoto Yodobashi 12. Kyoto AVANTI Recommended Shopping Streets 1. Nishiki Market 2. Shinkyogoku Shopping Street 3. Teramachi Senmontenkai Shopping Street 4. Furukawacho Shopping Arcade

The Shijo Street and Kawaramachi Area

Shijo Street and Kawaramachi are the busiest and most crowded shopping areas in Kyoto. This area is appealing for its array of department stores, shopping districts, and drug stores located all in one place.

It’s also a very convenient location to use as the starting point for your sightseeing adventures. This is due to the many city buses bound for sightseeing spots within the city that pass through this area.

Next, we will introduce the shopping spots that are especially popular on Shijo Street and Kawaramachi.

Kyoto Takashimaya

Kyoto Takashimaya , situated on the intersection of Shijo Kawaramachi, comes to mind when it comes to luxury department stores in Kyoto. The establishment is home to world-famous brands and carries a selection of cosmetics, souvenirs, and more. Their Beer Garden event, synonymous with summer in Kyoto, can also be enjoyed on the rooftop.

Kyoto Takashimaya Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo, Shijo-dori Kawaramachi Nishiiru, Shincho 52 Official Website: https://www.takashimaya-global.com/en/stores/kyoto/

Daimaru Kyoto

Daimaru Kyoto , located along Shijo Street, is another popular choice besides Takashimaya when it comes to luxury department stores in Kyoto City. The department store carries a selection of famous brands, cosmetic products, and souvenirs. They also have a wide selection of fresh foods, side dishes, and other cuisines on their underground levels.

Food products will often be discounted once closing time nears, so it’s quite the bargain.

Daimaru Kyoto Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo, Shijo-dori Takakura Nishiiru Tachiurinishimachi 79 Official Website: https://www.daimaru.co.jp.e.md.hp.transer.com/kyoto/

Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden

Picture courtesy of PR Times Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden had its grand opening in 2021 in the former location of Marui Department Store. This shopping complex is operated by Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd. It’s another popular department store that faces the intersection of Shijo Kawaramachi and is located right across the street from Takashimaya.

On the seventh floor is a massive food court where you can enjoy Kyoto cuisine. The department store is also known for having a large EDION store, an electronics retailer. MATCHA offers an EDION discount coupon to readers, so please feel free to use it when you visit Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden.

Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo, Shijo Kawaramachi Higashiiru, Shincho 68 Official Website: https://www.kyoto-kawaramachigarden.com/en/

Fujii Daimaru

Fujii Daimaru , located on Shijo Street, is a department store that is more or less marketed towards younger age groups. The first Kansai location of several brands can be found in this establishment and has gained support from Kyoto’s younger generation. HARBS, a popular cake shop, is also located inside!

By the way, Fujii Daimaru is not affiliated in any way with Daimaru Kyoto across the street, so please take note of this!

Fujii Daimaru Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo, Teramachi-dori, Shijosagaru, Teianmaenocho 605 Official Website: https://www.fujiidaimaru.co.jp/fg_tax_ekc/

Kyoto BAL , located on Kawaramachi Street, is an established department store that was revitalized as a luxurious department store while still maintaining its antiquated ambience after renovations in 2015. An increasing ratio of high-end brands are being added to the brands available in the department store.

Kyoto BAL Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Nakagyo, Kawaramachi-dori Sanjosagaru, Yamazakicho 251 Official Website: https://www.bal-bldg.com/kyoto/ (Japanese)

Kawaramachi OPA

Kawaramachi OPA is a department store targeted towards the younger generation ranging from their teens to their 30s. There are over one hundred stores available with a focus on fashion products. BOOK OFF, a retailer that sells secondhand books and other secondhand goods, has a large location on the eighth floor that is always bustling with people in search of a real bargain.

Our writer’s personal recommendation is to go check the store’s transparent elevator. The scenery visible from the elevator is wonderful no matter what time of day it is.

Kawaramachi OPA Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Nakagyo, Kawaramachi-dori Shijoagaru Official Website: https://www.opa-club.com/kawaramachi (Japanese)

JR Kyoto Station Area

The Kyoto Station area, otherwise known as the gate to Kyoto, is considered another downtown area of Kyoto. Here, we will introduce department stores and underground malls in the area.

JR Kyoto Isetan

Picture courtesy of Pixta

JR Kyoto Isetan , connected to JR Kyoto Station and the station premises, is an immensely popular department store. Isetan made its name as a department store in Tokyo, but the Isetan in Kyoto Station is the chain’s very first location in Kansai.

The department store has a wide selection of products from luxury brands and is well-stocked with shops selling souvenirs for a location like Kyoto Station. Most of Kyoto’s most famous souvenirs can be purchased here.

JR Kyoto Isetan Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo, Karasuma-dori Shiokojisagaru, Higashishiokojicho Official Website: https://www.mistore.jp/store/kyoto.html (Japanese)

Kyoto Tower Sando

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Kyoto Tower Sando is located at the bottom of Kyoto Tower directly opposite from Kyoto Station. It has convenient access and has been enjoying immense popularity since its opening.

Starbucks Coffee is located on the first floor. The department store is also incredibly popular for its souvenir shops and underground food court .

Kyoto Tower Sando Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo, Higashishiokojicho 721-1 Official Website: https://www.kyoto-tower-sando.jp/en/

Kyoto Porta

Kyoto Porta in front of Kyoto Station is an underground mall often visited by people arriving from Kyoto Station. The mall is directly connected to the station from the Kyoto Municipal Subway ticket gates and is a conveniently located space where fashion, cafes, and souvenir shops are gathered in one place.

We especially recommend the restaurant area. You can find famous Kyoto shops along with restaurants where you can enjoy specialty dishes from all over Japan here and accommodate a variety of dietary needs.

Kyoto Porta Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo, Karasuma-dori, Shiokojisagaru, Higashishiokojicho 902 Official Website: https://www.porta.co.jp/ (Japanese)

Kintetsu Mall Miyakomichi

Kintetsu Mall Miyakomichi is located on the bottom floor of the Kyoto Station Hachijo Entrance. The mall is lined with rows of fast food restaurants like McDonalds, several Western-style restaurants, and souvenir shops. This is the most suitable shopping spot for those traveling on the shinkansen (bullet train) to buy gifts and souvenirs.

Kintetsu Mall Miyakomichi Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho 31-1 Official Website: https://www.gnavi.co.jp/kinmei/english_site/index.html

Kyoto Yodobashi

If you want to buy electrical appliances near Kyoto Station, then your best bet would be Kyoto Yodobashi . This retail chain practically carries every type of appliance and electronic goods on the market. The retailer also has an ample selection of other stores including a toy shop and restaurants, so it’s worth visiting even if you’re someone with no interest in appliances.

Kyoto Yodobashi Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo, Karasuma-dori, Shichijosagaru, Higashishiokojicho 590-2 Official Website: http://www.yodobashi-kyoto.com/ (Japanese)

Kyoto AVANTI

Picture courtesy of Pixta Kyoto AVANTI , located across from the Kyoto Station Hachijo Entrance and directly connected to the underground passage, is a commercial complex with unique characteristics. It houses several general and fashion stores like Don Quijote, Shimamura, and GU. ANIMATE, a store carrying anime-related merchandise, also has a branch inside.

Kyoto AVANTI Address: Kyoto, Minami, Higashikujo, Nishisannocho 31 Official Website: https://kyoto-avanti.com/language/

Recommended Shopping Streets

If you’ll be sightseeing in Japan, then you can’t skip the local shopping districts and streets frequented by residents! Kyoto is also home to a number of shopping streets. Here, we introduce four out of that list.

Nishiki Market

Picture courtesy of pixta

Nishiki Market is a place you can’t leave out when visiting Kyoto. Long ago, it was called Kyoto’s Kitchen and is a popular food spot visited by many international visitors even today.

This is an area where you can not only enjoy Kyoto’s diverse food and cuisine, but also have fun just by watching the hustle and bustle at the market stalls.

Nishiki Market Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Nakagyo, Nishidaimonjicho 609 Official Website: https://www.kyoto-nishiki.or.jp/ (Japanese)

Shinkyogoku Shopping Street

Shinkyogoku Shopping Street is near the exit of Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Railway. It is the liveliest shopping district in Kyoto while also being an established shopping street with a long history.

Approximately 180 shops and stalls including general stores, gift shops, and more stand side by side along this 800-meter-long street. Multiple temples are also scattered along this shopping stretch and adds to the refined elegance of the street.

Shinkyogoku Shopping Street Official Website: https://www.shinkyogoku.or.jp/foreign/english.html

Teramachi Senmontenkai Shopping Street

Teramachi Senmontenkai Shopping Street is located along Teramachi Street and stretches from Oike Street to Sanjo Street. It extends parallel to Shinkyogoku Shopping Street.

Compared to the busy Nishiki Market and Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, this street is characterized by its somewhat strong local color. The main gate to Honnoji Temple , an important setting in Japanese history, is also located within this shopping street.

Teramachi Senmontenkai Shopping Street Official Website: https://www.teramachi-senmontenkai.jp (Japanese)

Furukawacho Shopping Arcade

Furukawacho Shopping Arcade , located in the Kyoto Higashiyama area near Higashiyama Station and Heian Shrine, is a relatively short shopping arcade that stretches for only 220 meters.

There are about 40 shops in the arcade, which is charming for its retro atmosphere that keeps the nostalgia of the Showa period alive. Lately, many younger customers have begun to visit this shopping arcade inspired by TV shows and films.

Due to the colorful lanterns dangling from the shopping arcade’s ceiling, this place has become a popular Instagram photo spot. Many activities are held in this shopping arcade to revitalize an area that once lost its vibrancy.

Furukawacho Shopping Arcade Official Website: https://www.furukawacho.com/ (Japanese)

Kyoto is the Perfect Place for Shopping!

The first place that comes to mind might be Osaka when it comes to shopping in Kansai. However, Kyoto’s shopping malls and department stores won’t be defeated by this!

Make the proper preparations beforehand and you can guarantee that you get everything off of your wishlist in Kyoto!

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STORY Kyoto Shopping Guide Come for the history, stay for the myriad shopping options

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• Kyoto Shopping Guide

Kyoto offers more than just temples—visit its many shopping districts for traditional goods and modern gifts alike

Kyoto's streets are filled with old, traditional shops that hearken back to the time when it ruled as Japan's ancient capital. This city continues to be one of Japan's trendiest, meaning you can also find many new shops selling chic souvenirs and one-of-a-kind items.

Fukujuen, known to sell the highest quality green tea, was founded in 1790. Its flagship shop in Kyoto includes tea-making workshops, a cafe specializing in Japanese sweets and a French restaurant featuring dishes made with green tea.

Gion Koishi is a sweets shop with items made by skilled artisans following traditional techniques. They specialize in kakigori, or shaved ice, a popular summer treat in Japan.

Yojiya was founded in 1904 as a stage makeup shop for the many actors who worked at Kyoto's famous theaters. It is most famous for its aburatorigami, or oil absorbing paper, which is used when hammering gold into gold leaf. It is also known for its hand cream, yuzu lip cream and various other cosmetics.

Eirakuya Hosotsuji I-hee Syoten specializes in traditional fabrics, specifically tenugui (hand towels) and furoshiki (wrapping cloths). Many of the cloths have amusing patterns, like maiko (apprentice geisha) playing golf or riding a bullet train.

Miscellaneous

Sou Sou sells modern versions of traditional tabi, or split-toe shoes. Tamaru Inbou sells unique seals and stamps, many with quirky or intricate patterns.

Aeon Mall Kyoto Gojo

For those looking to buy more modern goods, Aeon Mall Kyoto Gojo is a cheaper option compared to the city's luxury department stores. The complex contains up to 140 shops of all kinds specializing in fashion, food products, and assorted daily goods. The mall also features restaurants and cafes, making it a large-scale complex that can provide a whole day of fun.

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Kyoto Shopping Guide

In Kyoto, you could spend your entire trip visiting temples and shrines , but you’d be missing out on the city’s incredible shopping scene. Kyoto , simply put, is a paradise for shoppers – not to mention the tourist tax-free benefits. Although you’ll probably want to pick up your cosplay and lolita wardrobe in Tokyo, for all things Japanese handicrafts, Kyoto will be your prime destination. Kyoto is home to the most extensive offerings in Japanese pottery, folding fans, and lacquerware, among many others.

Unlike Tokyo ’s shopping, which is spread all over the large city, the shopping in Kyoto is much more concentrated. This means that you won’t find yourself running all over the city, dashing from one shopping area to another. 

Kyoto’s main shopping is organized into two districts, the Kyoto Station district and Downtown Kyoto. Read on for our ultimate shopping guide to Kyoto.

Kyoto Station

The Kyoto Station is Kyoto’s second-largest shopping district. It contains many shops inside and underneath the station. The Kyoto Station building houses the Isetan department store, which contains 11 floors and two basement floors. Here you can find high-end brands like Burberry and Gucci. On the top floor of the building, you’ll find restaurants . Underneath Kyoto Station, there are several electronic and camera stores.

Downtown Kyoto

Downtown Kyoto is where you’ll want to focus the bulk of your shopping. The district is composed of hundreds of small shops, large department stores, and the Nishiki Market. The heart of Kyoto is Shijo-dori, a street constantly bustling with locals and tourists.

The area boasts a plethora of department stores and malls including the Takashimaya department store, the Kyoto Maraui department store, the Koto+ mall, the Daimaru department store, the OPA mall, and the Mina Kyoto mall. There are also several shopping arcades in the area, including Teramachi and Shinkyogoku. The arcades are a good place to buy souvenirs . They house a number of specialty stores selling knives, dolls, and woodblock prints. Teramachi Dori continues to a street filled with designer shops, galleries, and cafes. The street is lined with boutique clothing and decor and gift shops. Some of Kyoto’s best shopping can be found here.

Japanese Crafts

The kyoto handicraft center.

This is a great place to head for a huge selection of high-quality souvenirs and arts and crafts. The center fills seven floors, which offer everything from woodblock prints, yukata (light cotton robes), and pottery, to kimonos, Japanese cosmetics, and jewelry. The center even offers workshops to visitors looking to learn a new hobby like shichimi spice blending.

Flea Markets

The best place to head for ceramics are the flea markets, the top floors of department stores, and along the streets leading up to Kiyomizu -dera temple. Kyoto holds two monthly flea markets, one at Toji Temple on the 21st of every month and the other at Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine on the 25th of every month. You can find some great bargains on antiques, ceramics, traditional clothing, Japanese furniture, manga, and jewelry. If you are in Kyoto on the right days, these markets are a must.

Wagaminomise Morita

Wagaminomise Morita is the king of Japanese paper shops. The shop specializes in washi, which is Japanese handmade paper. You can find paper of varying patterns, colors, and sizes. The store is a great place to pick up some authentic Japanese crafts and souvenirs.

If you’re in the market for bamboo items, head to Kohchosai. The company has been selling bamboo products since 1898. They sell products ranging from hand-woven baskets to kitchen utensils.

Nishiki Market

And of course, one couldn’t talk about shopping in Kyoto without the Nishiki Market. The market is a big shopping area for locals and tourists alike and has been in business for around 400 years. Among the shops in the market is the venerable Aritsugu. The brand was founded in 1560 and sells more than 400 different kinds of knives. Walking through these busy shopping areas and markets can be overwhelming. Take a guided tour of Kyoto and be escorted throughout by a local expert guide.

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20 Best Souvenirs to Buy in Kyoto! From Japanese Sweets to Everyday Sundries That Mix Tradition and Modernity!

• Chisa Nishimura

From historic shrines, temples, and townhouses to longstanding ryotei (traditional Japanese restaurants) and teahouses, Kyoto is simply inundated with Japanese cultural traditions. In a time when the city served as the country’s capital, Kyoto attracted the latest technological innovations from all across the country, and to this day remains a place where you can find many skilled craftsmen of all callings. In recent years, these age-old traditions have merged with modern sensibilities to create all new kinds of amazing products that are both fun to buy and to receive. In this article, we will introduce some of the best Kyoto souvenirs that exemplify those qualities. Make the best out of your next Kyoto vacation by checking this guide for souvenir shops close to popular tourist spots or for department stores with the best inventory!

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1. Kimono (Kyomatoigashi cacoto)

The famous kimono cakes are decorated in bright, fun patterns modeled after traditional kimono cloth designs, making them as beautiful as they are delicious. The inspiration for the kimono cakes came from one of the bakers at the confectionery store after she married into a rental clothing shop founded back to 1897, remarking how confectionery designs resembled kimono clothing. And that’s how the kimono cakes were born, which are made from sponge cake sandwiched with cream, jam, nuts, fruit etc. and coated with white chocolate, resulting in lavish flavors befitting the gorgeous presentation. Besides pristinely packed kimono souvenir boxes, the store also sells smaller gift bags with three cakes insides.

2. Cacao 365 (Cacao 365)

The quaint traditional elements which embody Japanese culture can be found in abundance throughout the Kyoto streets of Gion, which is also where this next shop is located. Cacao 365 gets its names from its trademark chocolate decorated with a different design for every day of the year. Kyoto culture is all about taking inspiration from the changing of the seasons when it comes to its cuisine or designs, and Cacao 365 is no exception. Their motto, “Everyday is a good day,” conveys their belief in living each day to the fullest, with these elegant chocolates being a reflection of Kyoto's graceful charm. Be sure to also check out their other popular delicacies like the baked sweets and their éclairs.

3. Stick Chocolat (Chocolat Bel Amer Kyoto-Bettei)

The Stick Chocolat is served on a stick like a popsicle. The embroidery-like decorations on the surface differ depending on the flavor and are so charming that it almost feels like a waste to eat them. In addition to the flowery prints emblazoned on a variety of flavors like caramel salé and custard vanilla, they also offer flavors unique to Japan like brown sugar kinako (soybean flour), matcha green tea, and hojicha roasted green tea. The store also offers plenty of other chocolates, cakes, and baked sweets, so you’ll definitely find something you like here.

4. Natural Popcorn, Ripe Keihoku Sansho Pepper-Flavored (Kyoto Kameyoshi)

Kyoto Kameyoshi produces and sells popcorn made from corn grown in the natural soil of northern Kyoto, which is then flavored with local Kyoto seasonings like sansho pepper, honey, or kinako soybean flour. The ripe Keihoku sansho flavor is especially recommended. Sansho is commonly used in Japanese cuisine as an aromatic, piquant spice, which here is complemented beautifully by the sweet flavor of caramel, resulting in refined, flavorful popcorn. 

5. IRODORI Kohakuto (Tsuruya Yoshinobu)

This delicacy is a blend of the old and new made at an old-fashioned sweets shop. Kohakuto is a kind of traditional candy made with sugar and kanten (Japanese gelatin) that has long been enjoyed in Japan. These pastel-colored kohakuto come in flavors such as jasmine, chamomile, and lavender, and offer that characteristic crunch that so many people love.

6. drawing, animal (UCHU wagashi)

Rakugan is a type of traditional Japanese confectionery known as higashi (dry sweets), which is made by mixing regular or refined sugar into rice flour or other floury substance, then adding color to it and pressing it all into a mold and allowing it to dry. The rakugan at UCHU wagashi are made using high-end wasanbon refined sugar, resulting in a mellow, melt-in-your-mouth product that’s presented in a colorful and visually pleasant package. There are many kinds of rakugan at UCHU wagashi, like “drawing,” which can be rearranged in whatever shape you want, or “animal,” which are animal-shaped rakugan that come in cocoa and vanilla flavors. For playful sweets that are a treat for the eyes and the mouth, look no further than UCHU wagashi.

7. Okoicha Langue de Chat Cha no Ka (Kyoto Kitayama MALEBRANCHE)

Kyoto Kitayama MALEBRANCHE is a Western confectionery store in Kyoto that is exceptionally popular for their sweets that combine the best elements of Japanese and Western sweets. Tea leaves grown exclusively for this dessert are ground into fine powder inside a mortar to produce the strong fragrance and vivid color the Cha no Ka is known for. Additionally, the faintly bitter flavor of the koicha Langue de Chat biscuit perfectly balances out the sweet white chocolate. Each Cha no Ka is individually wrapped, making it perfect for distributing them as small gifts.

8. Uji Green Tea Baumkuchen (Tsujirihei Main Branch)

This striking Baumkuchen cake looks just like an actual bamboo stalk. Made using Kyoto Uji matcha, one of the three greatest teas of Japan, and fresh cream, the resulting dessert comes out incredibly fluffy with a rich green tea flavor to it. Tsujirihei has a long history as a wholesale tea seller, so their sweets both look amazing and taste wholly authentic. How about taking home a souvenir that embodies a piece of Kyoto with its abundance of scenic bamboo forests?

9. Kitsune Senbei (Sohonke Inariya)

The kitsune senbei (fox rice cracker) is a specialty souvenir that can be found at the entrance to the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine famous for its rows of crimson torii gates. The fox has long been known in Japan as a deity of bountiful harvests, and its likeness serves as the motif for each hand-made rice cracker. The mild sweet flavor of the white miso forms an exquisite combination with the fragrant sesame. The cracker itself is also fairly thick, and can serve as a hearty snack that's hard to stop eating once you bite into it.

1. Shichimi Togarashi (Shichimiya Honpo)

Shichimi togarashi is a spice mixture that pairs seamlessly with Japanese cuisine whether it's udon noodles or gyudon (rice bowl dish with beef). Its made up of ground red peppers, sansho pepper, black sesame, dried nori seaweeds, and other ingredients. The exact shichimi recipe at Shichimiya Honpo, a spice shop founded back in 1655 along the road leading to the Kiyomizudera temple, has been passed down from generation to generation and is now beloved for its abundant flavor that doesn’t overpower the rest of the dish but instead draws out the best out of all other ingredients. It's also packaged in a gourd as a unique touch that’s ideal for souvenirs.

2. Chiisana Daiyasu (Daiyasu)

Kyo-Tsukemono, or Kyoto pickled vegetables are one of the specialties of the region. Daiyasu is known as one of the prestigious brands of pickled vegetables, made using seasonal vegetables shipped in from contracted farms across the country. Daiyasu products are 100% domestic and organic and contain absolutely no artificial additives. The Chiisana Daiyasu pickles are packaged in small individual containers of preserved cucumbers, yams, daikon radish, burdock etc., so you can choose your favorites and enjoy fresh Kyo-Tsukemono for days. Chiisana Daiyasu can be purchased individually, making them easy to carry around, so why not have them as a light snack at your hotel?

3. Nyumen (Kikunoi)

Kikunoi Main Branch is a ryotei (traditional high-end Japanese restaurant) that has been serving Kyoto dishes and kaiseki (traditional Japanese course cuisine) since 1912. The esteemed location has been awarded 3 Michelin stars for 11 years running, and is known as one of the premier traditional Japanese restaurants in Kyoto. And now, you can enjoy one Kikunoi specialty in the comfort of your own home: their nyumen. Nyumen is a dish of string-like fine noodles cooked in dashi broth. Domestically produced wheat flour is meticulously kneaded until the nyumen acquires the texture of raw noodles, which despite their mild flavor deliver a nice savory punch. The Kikunoi nyumen is available in a number of variations such as yuba (tofu skin), sea bream, and matsutake mushrooms, and while the dishes are simple to prepare—just pour boiling water over them—their fragrant aromas are all first-class.

4. Zeitaku Chazuke (Kyoto Kitcho)

Situated in Arashiyama, one of Kyoto's most attractive scenic locations, the Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama Main Branch is yet another prestigious restaurant that has been awarded 3 Michelin stars for 11 years running, and one of their specialties is chazuke. Chazuke, or cooked rice with tea or dashi poured over it, is a staple of the Japanese diet. The Kitcho chazuke, befitting a traditional ryotei restaurant, is made with delicious dashi broth and comes in three varieties: salmon with just enough salt to complement white rice, chirimen sansho, a Kyoto staple of dried baby sardines with Japanese pepper, and tender shellfish meat. No matter which one you go with, you are guaranteed an extravagant feast. There is also a six-variety set that additionally includes eel, king salmon, and tokishirazu chum salmon.

5. Gyokuro, Sencha, Hojicha Teabag Set (Ippodo Tea)

Ippodo is a tea specialty store whose main branch is located at Teramachi Nijo. Boasting over 300 years of history, the store’s fragrant tea leaves have won it fans all over the country. For souvenirs, we recommend the convenient and high-end teabag set of gyokuro (a type of green tea grown in the shade), sencha (processed whole green tea leaves), and hojicha (roasted green tea). Whether you’re at home or traveling, these teabags allow you to enjoy genuine Japanese tea wherever you are.

6. Kyoto Matcha Beer (Kizakura)

Fushimi is an area of Kyoto known for brewing Japanese alcohol, and Kizakura is the rice wine maker that produced the very first Fushimi beer. Just like the local sake, Kizakura beers are made with the famous Fukusui spring water and come in many varieties, but the one we especially recommend is the matcha beer characterized by its mellow green foam and faintly bitter but rich matcha fragrance that dissipates into a pleasant aftertaste. The unique beer embodies two essential Japanese flavors of matcha and sake, making it the perfect souvenir that will instantly transport you back to Japan with one gulp.

Daily Necessities, Cosmetics, Sundries

1. incense (lisn kyoto).

Among the beautiful, wavy walls of Lisn Kyoto, above the chic tiled floor, you’ll find an assortment of over 150 colorful, eye-catching incenses. You can buy them by the stick and create the perfect combination of aromas, but the packs of 10 are a real deal thanks to their stylish packages and the low price of 385 yen, making them the perfect souvenirs for your friends, family, or coworkers.

2. Tricolored Yokan Soap (Kyoto Shabonya)

The carefully selected plant oils used in the soap at Kyoto Shabonya are soothing and non-irritating, making them safe to use for people prone to dry or itchy skin. Additionally, most of the fragrances used in the soap are organic, and the natural, gentle aromas have a calming effect. There are many varieties to choose from, from the refreshing soap made with yuzu fruit from Mizuo, the citrus capital of Kyoto, to the soap made with black beans from Kyotanba, or the delicious-looking soap that could easily be mistaken for the popular Japanese dessert yokan. Whatever soap you need, you’ll definitely find it at Kyoto Shabonya.

3. Men’s Cosmetics (Yojiya)

For Japanese people, one of the best Kyoto souvenirs out there is the Yojiya aburatorigami, a traditional facial oil-blotting paper. But the line of male cosmetics by the same company is also incredibly popular, with one product in particular being especially interesting: the face lotion. Packaged in a spray bottle, the easy-to-use lotion has found many fans because of how refreshed it leaves you after a face wash without making your skin sticky. It's also unscented, colorless, and alcohol-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. The same line of products also includes a facial wash foam and a milky lotion.

4. Gamaguchi Products (Ayanokoji)

Gamaguchi (toad mouth) is a traditional type of Japanese-style wallets, pouches, bags, or backpacks with a large, clasp opening that provides easy access to the contents inside. Ayanokoji is a gamaguchi specialty store where all the products are made individually by hand. From traditional Japanese patterns to modern, trendy designs, the intricately crafted Ayanokoji items are sure to add a little color to your everyday life. Visit the store yourself if you ever have the chance.

5. Gamaguchi Products (Pocchiri)

“Pocchiri” is a gamaguchi brand that started up in Kyoto in 2012. Their varied selection includes wallets, key cases, accessory pouches, and shoulder bags. Though centered in Kyoto, craftsmen from all around Japan are involved in the manufacturing of Pocchiri goods. In addition to checkerboard and polka dot patterns, their designs also include adorable motifs that anyone can enjoy like fruit, animals, or Halloween and Christmas themes. Once you see one Pocchiri product for yourself, you’ll feel like collecting them all!

We hope that you’ve enjoyed our introduction to the best souvenirs that Kyoto has to offer, from charming treats that are as incredible to look at as they are to eat, to sundries that fuse traditional craftsmanship with modern trends, or products that offer you a taste of some of the best restaurants in the city. Whether it’s a snack to be enjoyed in the comfort of your hotel room or a present for your family or that special someone, or even something you just want to keep for yourself, you will definitely find it in Kyoto. Look the article over and if you see anything you like, go for it the next time you’re in Kyoto so you don’t have to fret over what souvenirs to buy!

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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Where to buy souvenirs in kyoto — 11+ best places to shop in kyoto & what to buy in kyoto.

Kyoto is an ancient capital city of Japan, which attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world because it has a rich history with famous temples, shrines and architectural works such as: Kinkaku-ji golden temple, Yasaka Shrine, Fushimi-Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple… Not only that, this place is also widely known for its unique culinary culture, and more specifically, the shopping places are also one of the best places to visit. So, where to shop for souvenirs in Kyoto, where to buy souvenirs in Kyoto and where to shop in Kyoto? Let’s check out our Kyoto shopping guide with 10 best places to shopping in Kyoto as follows!

• What to buy in Kyoto? — 31+ must-buy Kyoto souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in Kyoto
• When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to visit Kyoto
• Kyoto cherry blossom 2024 forecast — The dates & 9+ best place to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto
• Kyoto top restaurants — 25+ top & best restaurants in Kyoto
• Kyoto best eats — 8 best food & must eat food in Kyoto

Now, let’s explore with Living Nomads 10 best shopping places in Kyoto, Japan in the list below!

Nishiki Market (#where to buy souvenirs in kyoto)

Address: Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan Hours: 10am-6pm

Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, Nishiki Market, with more than 100 food stalls and numerous restaurants located close together on both sides of Nishiki Koji-dori Street, has attracted many locals and tourists alike by the variety of fresh foods or by the scent of sophisticated dishes prepared by skillful chefs. Nishiki is a market in downtown Kyoto, located on a street one block north and parallel to Shijō Street and west of Teramachi Street.

This is a shopping place in Kyoto that specializes in all things of fresh seafood, agricultural products, kitchen utensils, and there is no shortage of tools. Moreover, Nishiki Market is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi. Some shops even prepare food and free skewers for visitors to taste. There are also restaurants, or food stalls selling food ready to serve visitors on site. In addition, there are also small food stalls serving visitors with seats even if there are only one or two seats. Nishiki Market has a bustling, airy atmosphere that invites those who want to explore the variety of food here.

Rich with history and tradition, the popular market is home to many of Kyoto’s famous foods and goods – most of which are produced locally. You can shop at some famous stores such as: Aritsugu – specializing in hand-made knives, Mochiyaki Senbei – serving fast food, Miki Keiran – offering a variety of dishes for foreigners… With a wide selection of food, this place is sure to satisfy all cravings for Japanese food.

Nishiki Market opens at 10am and closes at 6pm. Make a schedule and come here to buy yourself “delicious” food and quality items.

Kobo-ichi Flea Market at Toji Temple (#where to buy souvenirs in kyoto)

Address: Japan, 〒603-8346 Kyoto, Kita Ward, Tojiin Kitamachi, 63番地 Date: every month on 21st (rain or shine) Hours: 6am – 4pm (from dawn to dusk)

Toji-in Temple is one of Kyoto’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but that’s not the only reason it’s become so popular across Japan. That is the Flea Market. Not only are they fun, but they also have delectable food, and there’s probably no better place to buy a souvenir to remember your trip to Japan! On the 21st of every month, at Toji temple, located just outside Kyoto station, there is a very popular flea market that attracts hundreds of vendors selling all kinds of goods! Flea markets are a great place to find street food, and Japanese street food is some of the best in the world. There is no need to worry about food safety here and you can come here right away because their prices are really reasonable.

If you want to buy a kimono as a souvenir, this is the right place to buy it. Textiles and fabrics are also sold at some of these stalls. If you want something smaller, bags with traditional Japanese designs and fabrics are also on sale. Furthermore, the coolest items sold at these flea markets are undoubtedly antiques, which can range from ancient tea kettles to samurai helmets. A smaller antique market is held on the first Sunday of the month. Flea markets are a really fun experience and Toji Temple has one of the best markets in Kyoto. So if you coming here in Kyoto around the 21st, include Toji Temple in your itinerary.

Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades (#where to shop in kyoto)

Address: Japan, 〒604-8035 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Sakuranocho, 438-1 べんてん堂ビル 3F Hours: 10 AM–8:30 PM/Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM/Saturday, Sunday: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM

These two covered shopping arcades are the most famous shopping streets in all of Kyoto. Right in the middle of downtown Kyoto, these two streets form the heart of Kyoto’s main shopping district.

The eastern street, known as Shinkyogoku, is an old shopping spot next to Asakusa Nakamise – the oldest shopping place in Tokyo, with restaurants adjacent to each other along the street along with shops so you never “go hungry” if you decide to shop until the end of the day. Shin Kyogoku, this shopping street is mainly for young people. The things on sale are more responsive to the preferences of teenagers and the prices are lower, so in this street you can see many high school and university students in Japan. Here you can also find a shop selling interesting stamps.

The western street, known as Teramachi, which passes through Nishiki Market, is a more delicate place, with a variety of art galleries, bookstores, clothing and shoe stores, restaurants, drugstores, shops, and more. specialty shops, and many other places, everything is here. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes when shopping in Teramachi as this place is full of shoppers during the weekends. In addition, you will find a number of shops selling religious items such as incense, Buddha images, prayer beads as well as alike things.

There are all kinds of stores on these two shopping streets, some of which have been in business for two to three hundred years. It is said that if you walk the Teramachi and Shinkyogoku shopping streets, you can find everything you need, and the shopping streets certainly offer a nice line of products for people of all ages. So the shopping streets of Shinkyogoku and Teramachi are an extremely interesting part of Kyoto.

Tozando – The Soul of the Samurai lives in the Katana Shop (#where to shop in kyoto)

Address: 451 Shinhakusuimaruchō, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-8205 Tel: +81-75-432-1600 (Japanese & English)

You can never say you’ve been to Japan if you haven’t visited a katana maker or Samurai shop. When you think of Japan, you think of samurai. When you think of samurai, you think of the Japanese sword katana. There is a katana maker in Kyoto that has continued the traditional craft of making Japanese swords since its inception. The name of the store is Tozando. Tozando is a joint manufacturer of samurai armor and swords, and has several branches in Tokyo and Kyoto, each specializing in a different weapon. Tozando sells Samurai swords and armor sets, Japanese sword blades and practicing swords with blunt edges.

The Tozando store is visited by a large number of international visitors every day. What draws people through the door of a store that only sells expensive katana, armor, and weapons? The products here are so beautiful, they seem to draw people in. Tozando has a great range of weapons such as high quality indoor fake swords, realistic traditional armor sets of the quality that they are sometimes used in historical dramas and movies, and many exquisite accessories for fans of swords. Even in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, there are few specialty shops with such an abundance of samurai products. You can feel Japan’s rich history in the flesh inside the store converted from a traditional townhouse built more than a century ago. In Tozando, you can also see antique swords and weapons made centuries ago during the early Edo and Muromachi periods.

If you’re visiting the Heian Shrine, why not visit this samurai culture oasis? Tozando allows you to experience Japanese history in the most authentic way.

Aeon Mall Kyoto (#where to shop for souvenirs in kyoto)

Address: 1 Nishikujo Toriiguchicho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8417, Japan Hours: 10 AM–9 PM

Aeon Mall is a large shopping mall located a 5-minute walk from the Hachijo exit south of Kyoto Station. Inside are famous local and international retail stores, some cheap eateries, grocery stores, entertainment areas and cinemas. The mall consists of two buildings connected by a walkway on the 2nd and 3rd floors. Sakura Building has 5 floors and Kaede Building has 4 floors.

Sakura Building (#where to buy souvenirs in kyoto)

The first floor of the Sakura Building is notable for its diversity. Here you can find a supermarket, bakery, florist, pharmacy, furniture store, import store and accessory store. The second floor is mainly fashion and clothing stores for men and women. The 3rd floor is for electronics, shoes, and climbing accessories. The 4th floor has Daiso, a store with over 40,000 convenient and unique products. And there are also cosplay costumes for rent. There are also restaurants for guests to dine. On the 5th floor there is a 12 screen cinema showing all the latest Japanese and international hit movies.

Kaede Building (#where to shop in kyoto)

The Kaede Building is connected to the main Sakura Building on the 2nd and 3rd floors by a bridge. If it rains, take the 2nd floor bridge, as this is a covered walkway. Inside the Kaede Building, you can find a toy store on the 1st floor, a pet shop and bookstore on the 2nd floor, a sports shop on the 3rd floor, and home furniture on the 4th floor.

Many stores in Aeon Mall have duty-free services for foreign visitors, so don’t forget to bring your passport! Stores that offer this service will have a duty-free sticker displayed in their windows. To use the service, just ask the staff when making a purchase.

Kyoto Handicraft Center (# where to shop for souvenirs in kyoto)

Address: 17 Shogoin Entomicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8323, Japan Hours: 10 AM–7 PM Phone: +81 75-761-8001

Kyoto Handicraft Center – showcasing traditional Kyoto crafts and the finest quality luxury gifts and souvenirs – your number one destination for luxurious traditional crafts from Kyoto. For special gifts or truly unique souvenirs, such as swords or Kiyomizu wares, the Kyoto Handicraft Center offers the discerning souvenir hunter a unique experience. You will also see various traditional crafts produced by real artisans, a cultural insight that will make your visit more than just a shopping trip.

The Kyoto Handicraft Center is divided into the West Building and the East Building, with English-speaking staff on each floor. An information counter and souvenir shop are located on the first floor of the West Building. Here you will find a wide variety of luxury items such as decorative swords, samurai armor, beautiful intricate damascene mosaics, stunning pearl necklaces, ornate Japanese dolls, hanging scrolls and prints woodcarving.

The first floor of the East Building is a bookstore with lots of titles on Japanese history, tradition and culture in English, along with a tour guide and even some examples of manga (Japanese comics). On the second and third floors, various crafts, traditional foods and drinks can be found, such as kimono and yukata, genuine Nanbu ironwork, wooden Kokeshi dolls, exclusive Japanese cosmetics, Japanese tea, sake, paper goods, Wagashi traditional sweets, and more!

Takashimaya Department Store

Address: Japan, 〒600-8001 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Shincho, 52 Hours: 10 AM–8 PM

Located in the downtown of Kyoto and just a minute’s walk from Kawaramachi station is this huge shopping mall called Takashimaya. It is said that the history of this shopping center is as old as Kyoto. Takashimaya started making kimonos and clothing stores in 1831. Today, Takashimaya’s imposing building is not only a shopping place but also a tourist attraction and one of the famous landmarks. of Kyoto. What sets it apart from other malls in the city is the basement food court. Wide selection of food, from Eastern to Western cuisine. Many items are on attractive display in Takashimaya’s basement, ranging from local Japanese confectionery shops to wonderfully decorated cakes and pastries.

There is also a food concierge service where you will be assisted with a tablet to help find the right souvenirs to buy for a loved one or even for yourself. 8 floors of shopping and dining located inside Takashimaya Kyoto make it a great place to shop with friends, family or alone. You will find clothing stores for all ages. Tax refund counters are equipped with currency exchange machines, and foreign visitors can enjoy a 5% discount service at some stores. The language barrier won’t be a problem when shopping here as there are English or Chinese speaking staff at each location in the building and Takashimaya’s first priority is for shoppers to have an enjoyable shopping experience. taste as possible. You can feel it through their service.

Higashiyama District

The Higashiyama district located along the slopes of the eastern mountains of Kyoto is one of the city’s best preserved historic districts. This is a great place to experience Kyoto’s long tradition, especially between Kiyomizudera and Yasaka, where narrow streets, wooden buildings and traditional merchant shops evoke a sense of the ancient capital. It has undergone several renovations to further improve the traditional feel of Higashiyama.

The streets of Higashiyama are lined with small shops, cafes and restaurants that have catered to tourists and pilgrims for centuries. These businesses keep their traditional designs, despite being renewed over the years, and they continue to serve their customers. Local specialties such as Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, sweets, pickles, crafts and other souvenirs are sold here. Shops and restaurants in the area usually open around 9am or 10am and close fairly early around 5pm or 6pm, except in Hanatoro – meaning “flower and light street”, which is a series of illumination events taking place in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto lasts 12 days in March.

Shijo-dori (# kyoto shopping guide)

Shijo-dori is the main street that runs through downtown Kyoto in an east-west direction. It has flourished as a business district since ancient times. Shijo-dori, near Shijo Station, is always bustling with domestic and international tourists. This is the largest downtown area in Kyoto that houses various department stores, shops, and financial institutions. Initially, this neighborhood was too small to cater for the number of domestic and international tourists, but in 2015 the street was widened, making it much more convenient to move around. In particular, the shops concentrated there are located between Kawaramachi-dori and Karasuma-dori.

There are established department stores Daimaru, Takashimaya and Fujii Daimaru along with everything else from fashion, food, Kyoto style clothing (Kimono) to general merchandise in one place. Coming here, you can also enjoy the typical dishes of Kyoto and all kinds of Japanese dishes such as cakes, crackers, dango dumpling, plum jam… And when you come here, you can buy souvenirs for your family and loved ones.

Kyoto BAL Shopping Mall

Kyoto BAL is located at Kawaramachi, a main street of Kyoto. The Kyoto BAL is a commercial building that has long been beloved and familiar to the people of Kyoto, a hotbed of trends and culture. Kyoto BAL is a place to stay up to date with many of Kyoto’s trends, as well as a shopping mall that both local and international visitors enjoy. Like stepping into a hotel in the heart of the city, this chic Kyoto BAL makes shopping a breeze.

It offers shops aimed at people of all generations. Spaciously laid out, Kyoto BALL allows shoppers to look around with ease. From stores like KOTOSHINA which offers organic cosmetics using Uji tea leaves to American fashion brand, Theory, each store exudes personality and quality in keeping with the style of Kyoto BAL. What makes this shopping building enjoyable to stay for hours is the variety of cafes and stands on most floors. On the first floor you will find David Otto Juice and Hawaii Island Coffee. When you go upstairs, you’ll find a clothing store equipped with a cafe such as Margaret Howell Shop & Coffee, Café & Meal MUJI, or RH Cafe.

There are so many places to experience when you want to go shopping in Kyoto, it’s a great experience. Not only is it a pleasure to buy food, clothes and souvenirs but also for the hospitality of the Japanese people. The staff here are very friendly. They will guide you through everything, let you try on shoes and clothes and feel fine even if you decide not to buy the item. And what makes shopping in Kyoto easier is that some of the shop owners can speak English. So, do not forget to visit the interesting shopping places that we has just suggested for you to discover and buy many unique items.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Kyoto you can refer to

• Private Kansai International Airport Transfers (KIX) for Kyoto
• Limousine Bus Transfers between Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka or Kyoto
• Shared Night Bus Transfers from Kyoto to Tokyo
• Private Kansai Airport (KIX) Transfers to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Uji, Kobe, or Arima
• Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass (1 Day/2 Days, Kyoto Pick Up)
• Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass 1 Day/2 Days (Pick up at Osaka)
• Randen + Subway 1 Day Pass
• Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Osaka: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More
• Kyoto Perfect Day Tour from Osaka or Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama & More
• Kyoto and Nara Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
• Kyoto Afternoon Tour from Osaka
• Hankyu Tourist Pass
• Sagano Romantic Train One-Way Ticket (Saga or Kameoka Departure)
• Kimono Rental and Photoshoot in Kyoto by Ouka Kimono
• Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train Day Tour
• Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Kyoto: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More
• Amanohashidate & Miyama One Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
• JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass
• Kimono Rental in Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple
• One Day Kimono Rental
• Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Osaka
• Kimono and Yukata Rental at Kimono Miyabi Kyoto
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• 4G WiFi (Japan Pick Up) for Japan
• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Are you finding more top things to do in Kyoto: Tours, activities, attractions and other things?  Let’s check it out at here . And read more:  Kyoto blog (Kyoto travel blog) — The fullest Kyoto travel guide blog for a budget trip to Kyoto, Japan for the first-timers.  And  Kyoto 3 day itinerary — How to visit Kyoto in 3 days & what to do in Kyoto in 3 days perfectly?

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[2023 GUIDE] The Best Places to Go Shopping in Kyoto

Posted by Mick | Asia , Places to Go | 0

Shopping in Kyoto is the perfect place to find unique and interesting items for every budget.

Kyoto is an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in history and culture. The city’s charming people and a wide variety of shopping opportunities make it a great place to visit. Traditional handicrafts and antiques are highly sought-after souvenirs. 

Examples include beautiful Japanese folding fans, traditional dolls, colorful kimonos, pottery, porcelain, and green tea or sake. For the best shopping experience, head downtown around Kawaramachi subway station, where you can find a mix of modern boutiques and shopping malls.

The Best Places to Go Shopping in Kyoto

1. kyoto department stores.

Kyoto is a great destination for shopping enthusiasts. Just a 5-minute walk from Kyoto Station, AEON Mall offers international retailers, specialty shops, and an amusement arcade. Takashimaya Kyoto is another great choice for shopping, including international boutiques, men’s and women’s fashion , jewelry , cosmetics , and culinary delights. In downtown Kyoto , Daimaru lets you shop for international brands and high-end fashion and enjoy global eats from various restaurants. With so many options available, you can spend days in Kyoto finding unique items.

Daimaru Department Store : an all-around department store that features a great basement food floor. 

Takashimaya Department Store : another wonderful all-around department store with an excellent basement food floor and a fantastic restaurant floor. 

Isetan Department Store : located inside the Kyoto Station building, is a good department store that has two impressive basement food floors.

2. Kyoto Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is a must-see destination for visitors to Kyoto . Locally known as “the kitchen of Kyoto,” it offers an insight into the daily life of Japan. The market boasts more than 100 stalls, many family-run establishments operating for generations.

You can find a wide array of delicacies such as sake, tofu, fish, Japanese pickles, vegetables, seaweed, and sweets, as well as cooked food and kitchenware like knives. Many of the products available at Nishiki Market are of higher quality than those found in ordinary supermarkets, but prices will be correspondingly higher too.

3. Kungyoku-do

Kungyoku-do is a boutique store next to Nishi Hongan-ji temple in Kyoto, Japan . It has been trading from the same location since its inception in 1594 and specializes in aromatic incense. In Japan, Kodo, or ‘the way of incense,’ is an austere art form. The smoke rising from the incense is said to show the way to heaven, making these fragrant tokens of Kyoto symbolic of spiritual connection.

Kungyoku-do imports materials from throughout Asia to craft their products. Therefore, you can take home the scent of Kyoto with some aromatic incense from this unique store.

4. Toji Temple Flea Market

Every 21st of the month, Toji Temple in Japan holds what is known as Kobo-san, one of the country’s oldest and biggest flea markets . The market attracts bargain hunters and collectors from all around due to its abundance of authentic Japanese antique furniture and textiles, jewelry, artworks, kimonos, and unique decorative household items. 

It is recommended to arrive early as the best products tend to be sold quickly. Furthermore, the atmosphere is laid back and welcoming; however, some communication may require a lot of pointing and gesturing.

5. Nishijin Textiles Centre

Nishijin is a famous textile center in Kyoto that is well-known throughout Japan. It has earned the reputation of being a “tough guy” due to its long history of surviving various setbacks, such as wars. When visiting Nishijin, visitors have the chance to try on kimonos and experience weaving by traditional methods. There are also kimono fashion shows several times a day; however, it is best to call ahead for more information as certain activities require advance booking. 

Before leaving the center, don’t forget to check out their shop, which has an excellent selection of items, including kimonos, obi (a type of sash), ties, gold brocade fabrics, woven small goods, and household items.

6. Tachikichi of Kyoto

Tachikichi is a must-see for anyone visiting Kyoto . With a history of over 250 years, this store offers contemporary and antique ceramics . On the five floors of Tachikichi, visitors can browse through exquisite dinner sets and sake cups of varying styles – from traditional to more modern designs, such as their anime series.

Although shoppers can purchase these beautiful pieces, it is also worth a visit to admire the regular exhibitions of international and Japanese ceramic artists. With its long-standing expertise in the ceramics industry, Tachikichi is sure to leave an impression on everyone who visits.

7. Ippodo Tea Shop

Ippodo is a nearly 300-year-old tea shop located in Kyoto, Japan . It is renowned for its top-quality teas and direct involvement in the procurement and blending of carefully selected tea leaves. Visitors to Ippodo can purchase high-grade Japanese green tea such as matcha, gyokuro, sencha, and bancha, as well as a variety of interesting tea utensils like bamboo whisks (chasen), bamboo tea ladles, and traditional teapots.

At Ippodo’s impressive ‘Kaboku’ tearoom, guests have the opportunity to learn how to brew their own tea. In addition to its main store on Teramachi-dori in Kyoto, Ippodo has expanded with branches in Tokyo and New York.

8. Morita Wagami

Paper is an essential element in Japanese culture, with traditional uses including doors, windows, fans, lamps, and umbrellas. The quality handmade paper of Morita Washi is highly sought-after both domestically and internationally.

A visit to Morita Washi’s shop offers a huge selection of paper that will fill hours of browsing pleasure. Craftspeople, calligraphers, artists, and scrap-bookers alike will be amazed by the variety of colors, textures, and grains available and the beautiful chiyogami decorated papers.

9. Aizen Kobo

Entering Aizen Kobo is like walking into a family home. The Utsuki family has been in the weaving business for generations, and their hand-woven and hand-dyed indigo textiles are renowned for their high quality. The owner, Utsuki-san, is considered a master of his craft, and his dyed textile is guaranteed never to fade.

Utsuki-san will be happy to show visitors many samples of the dyed and woven goods, including clothing his wife, Hisako, designed. Hisako’s designs draw upon traditional Japanese motifs while also incorporating modern sensibilities, creating unique pieces that are both timeless and contemporary. With such a wide selection of beautiful items, it’s no wonder that Aizen Kobo has become one of the top destinations for textile shopping in Kyoto .

10. Kuraya Hashimoto

For more than 50 years, the Hashimoto family has been in the business of selling new, antique, and decorative swords . The katana swords they have for sale are all carefully handcrafted to create genuine replicas of the swords that were once used by samurai warriors.

The store is always stocked with authentic antiques and more cost-effective replicas. Mr. Kuraya Hashimoto, the owner, understands that taking a samurai sword home on a plane may be an issue, so he offers safe and secure shipment to most countries.

11. Tsuji Shibazuke Honpo

If you’re looking to bring back some uniquely Japanese snacks , don’t forget to include tsukemono pickles! Tsuji Shibazuke is renowned in Kyoto for its outstanding pickles. They use only homegrown vegetables and traditional pickling processes, creating a variety of delicious pickles. Depending on the season, pickled eggplant, ginger, cucumbers, red peppers, and more can be found.

12. Fukunoya

After visiting Inari Fushimi Shrine, where the god of good business resides, stop by the Fukunoya gift store to pick up a token of business prosperity. Fukunoya sells a wide range of Japanese altar ornaments and good luck charms. These make perfect souvenirs for family and friends back home.

Foreign visitors often take home key rings and maneki-neko (beckoning cats), two of the most popular items at Fukunoya. Cute and colorful, they are ideal gifts for any occasion.

13. Ichizawa Shinzaburo Hanpu

Ichizawa Shinzaburo Hanpu is a local boutique shop located south of Higashiyama subway station in Kyoto, Japan. It specializes in handmade cotton bags of various styles and colors, as well as aprons, hats, writing utensils, bags, and letter organizers. All of these products are highly functional and practical items for everyday use.

The products from Ichizawa Shinzaburo Hanpu are so popular among locals that several hotels in Kyoto use them. Additionally, there is also a repair section available at the shop for customers’ convenience.

14. Kimura Oshido

Kimura Oshido is a shop that specializes in traditional Japanese dolls , mainly from Kyoto. It can be found right next to the stunning Kiyomizu Temple. 

Hinaningyo dolls, for example, are placed in the home to ask for joy as daughters grow up. Baby dolls are used to wish health and many children upon the recipient. Lucky cat dolls are iconic symbols in Japan, each with its own unique meaning. 

Be sure to check out Kimura Oshido to learn more about traditional Japanese dolls and their significance.

15. Miyawaki Baisen-an

Miyawaki Baisen-an is an iconic fan shop in a vintage building dating back to 1823. It is situated on Tominokoji-dori and is probably Kyoto’s most famous fan shop . 

At Miyawaki Baisen-an, visitors can browse an array of fans that come in a variety of shapes, sizes, designs, and scents. These decorative fans are lacquered and painted, making them practical tools and cultural icons. 

Visiting this boutique store is a great way to pick up a special souvenir of Kyoto .

16. Kasagen

Kasagen is the perfect place to pick up a unique memento from Kyoto . The shop offers an array of oiled-paper umbrellas reminiscent of those carried by the city’s famous geishas. These umbrellas protect their kimonos and provide shade from the sun. With over 140 years in business, Kasagen stands by the quality of its products, offering customers a guarantee that their purchase will last for years. Furthermore, Kasagen has been given the incredible honor of making umbrellas on behalf of the Imperial Household Agency.

17. Jusan-ya

A traditional part of a geisha’s ensemble is her kanzashi, a wooden hair comb. Using hair ornaments is infused with symbolism and allows geisha to express their own personalities. Jusan-ya has been crafting exquisite boxwood combs and hair accessories for Kyoto’s geiko and maiko for over six decades. Even if you don’t have the kimono to complete the look, these delicate items make great gifts for any woman.

Shopping in Kyoto Tips

Where to buy kimonos in kyoto.

For out-of-town visitors looking to experience traditional Japanese culture, the popular downtown location is Shijo Dori Street and Kawaramachi Dori Street. Here, many shops offer kimonos , clothing accessories , and unique souvenirs such as red lanterns, tea-ceremony utensils, and lacquerware. In addition to the shopping opportunities , these areas are well known for their lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and coffee shops.

Where to Buy Antiques in Kyoto

Pulse Plaza is the largest antiques fair in Japan and takes place thrice a year, attracting over 300 dealers worldwide. Admission to the grand affair is free, making it almost as good as visiting a museum for the wealth of historically significant items. Even without the intention of purchasing anything, it’s worth a visit for the experience of being in such an incredible room full of antiques.

The location of Pulse Plaza is in Takeda, about 10 minutes south of Kyoto station. A free shuttle bus is available from Takeda station on the Karasuma line for those who need transportation.

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A luxury shopping guide to Kyoto, Japan

Traditional crafts make this profoundly japanese city a buying haven.

Japan, Honshu, Kansai region, Kiyomizu-Dera, this ancient temple was first built in 798 and the present buildings date from 1633 (view of the temple and city of Kyoto in the background - elevated view). Getty Images

The great delight of arriving in Kyoto is that it is all so intensely Japanese. In this globalised world, it’s rare to find a modern city that remains so monocultural. Visit Kyoto, however, for 11 centuries Japan’s Imperial capital – and with 17 Unesco World Heritage sites, its most beautiful city as well as cultural centre – and almost every single person you encounter and every single thing you see, experience, eat or, inevitably, immediately want to buy will be Japanese.

The goods in the shops will have almost all been designed and made in Japan. The food will almost all be Japanese, apart from the occasional French patisserie shop. The stubby little cars and delivery vans are almost all Japanese. And, ignoring the tourists, everyone you meet will be Japanese, from the guides explaining the history of the most famous of the city’s 1,600 Buddhist temples and the 15th-century wood-built lakeside Ryoan-ji, site of the country’s most famous rock garden; or showing you around the mossy surrounds of the Saiho-ji Temple, where 120 different types of moss undulate along a stream and between the trees; to the staff at your hotel and the geishas presiding over proceedings at the Murin-an teahouse.

The reason for Japan’s monoculturalism is that for centuries this island nation closed itself off from the outside world. Between 1633 and 1853, few foreigners were allowed into the country and barely any Japanese were allowed out. This meant that the country existed without any external influences. It was only in 1853, when Commander Matthew Perry sailed into Tokyo’s harbour with four US Navy warships, that the country began to trade on any scale with the outside world and to modernise.

Today, what makes Kyoto such a fascinating place to shop, as well as sightsee temples and gardens, is that alongside super-modern and novelty items – squishy soaps, screen-printed socks, little ironing pads that let you iron something you’re actually wearing – and clothes and accessories from famous fashion names such as Comme des Garcons, Mastermind and A Bathing Ape, are traditional items. They are of an intense beauty and minimalist design sensibility that have been made with impeccable craftsmanship in exactly the same way for centuries, from lacquered writing sets to tiered bamboo vegetable steamers. You can see something exquisite and 17th-century in the Kyoto National Museum in the morning, then that afternoon see an exact replica in a shop – made by the 21st-century descendants of the same family.

Where to shop

If you are in Kyoto for only a brief time, the best three places to head for are within five minutes’ walk of each other: the top department store, Takashimaya, the Nishiki food market and Teramachi Street, one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan, where artisan ateliers and little boutiques are interspersed with cafes and restaurants.

With a longer stay, you can explore the three main shopping areas. Downtown Kyoto encompasses all the above; the Kyoto station area includes the ultra-modern, shop-lined station building; and across the Kamo River, Higashiyama is home to the narrow old temple, restaurant- and boutique-lined streets of Gion, which for centuries has been the home of geisha houses and where you can still see trainee geishas (maiko) tripping through the streets in their traditional white make-up, kimono and wooden geta footwear.

Kyoto is a sprawling, low-rise city, but it isn’t large – its population is barely 1.5 million – and given a fair amount of stamina, you could cover all three areas on foot in a day.

You will soon need an extra bag to take back your spoils, and Ichizawa  is the place to find the strong, simple canvas bags with carefully made fastenings and no superfluous detailing that have become famous in Japan. Originally made for craftsmen to carry their tools, the bags come in a variety of styles, with medium-sized totes from ¥5,600 (Dh187) to ¥16,000 (Dh535). The company's only store is in Kyoto, a two-minute walk from the Yasaka Shrine.

Aritsugu, established in 1550 as a swordsmith, is world-famous for its kitchen knives and is a place of pilgrimage for chefs worldwide. Looked after carefully, these light, durable, super-sharp steel knives can last a lifetime. Prices start from about ¥5,500 (Dh183) and a Santoku knife with an 18-centimetre blade costs ¥18,360 (Dh614). Customers can have their initials engraved on their purchases on the spot, but note that the shop – in Nishiki food market – takes only cash. It has no website, either, but visit matcha-jp.com for more information. Seikado , set up in 1838, and Kikuichimonji  also produce an extraordinary range of top-quality knives.

Lacquerware

Glossy, waterproof and hard-wearing, Japanese lacquered wood is one of the crafts that Kyoto has produced for centuries. The sap of the lacquer tree is poisonous until it dries, so lacquerware has always been the preserve of skilled craftsmen, and the best-known company, Zohiko , has been producing lacquerware since 1661. Its store on Teramachi Street is where you see duplicates of items the company made centuries ago that are on show at the Kyoto National Museum: a graceful four-tiered food carrier, for instance, among plates, trays, mirrors and stationery holders. A business-card box is one of the less expensive items at ¥38,888 (Dh1,300).

Also on Teramachi, Gallery Hitamuki sells a huge range of ceramic tableware, from tiny chopstick stands (from ¥40 [Dh1]) to large, graceful asymmetric bowls. Sione's delicate white porcelain bowls, decorated with slivers of gold, exert subtle appeal, with a large stemmed hira-wan bowl at ¥20,000 (Dh668) and ridged beakers at ¥3,000 (Dh100). Find them at the Takashimaya department store , along with delicately crafted bowls produced by historic company Asahiyaki .

Artisan courses

The new Kyoto crafts movement is a big thing in a city traditionally home to peerless craftsmanship. In 2012, to stop these crafts from dying out, six local companies with heritages stretching back centuries got together to revitalise themselves by making traditional items relevant for a new generation. Together, they launched Japan Handmade , and now you can find the exquisite items these six companies produce at select stores around the world.

Takashimaya is Kyoto’s main stockist, along with the companies themselves: Hosoo silk textiles are commissioned by royal families all over the world and include some mind-boggling innovations, such as DNA from luminous jellyfish injected into silkworms to produce a naturally luminous fabric; Asahiyaki for delicate pottery; Mokkougei for handcrafted wooden ice buckets; Kohchosai Kosuga crafts finely woven bamboo handbags and baskets; Kanaami-Tsuji for knitted wire-netting kitchen tools such as strainers and toasting sheets; and Kaikado makes elegant metal tea and food storage canisters so precisely made that the lids require no screw-turns – they simply slowly sink down onto the jars, rendering them air-tight. Prices start from ¥10,260 (Dh345).

About 20 artisan companies in the Kyoto Artisans group let visitors try various traditional crafts in their ateliers. At the KOHO Nishiki Textile Studio, which restores precious ancient textiles, you get a tour, instruction and the chanveto weave a coaster, all for ¥2,500 (Dh84). And to try kintsugi – "joining with gold", the Japanese art of mending cracked or chipped pottery with lacquer mixed with gold powder – a 90-minute class costs ¥12,000 (Dh401) (shitsugeisya.jimdo.com).

Japanese cushions

The ojami is a floor cushion traditionally filled with dried azuki beans. It is covered in a variety of fabrics, and in Kyoto, is made in a variety of shapes, all designed to help one sit on the floor comfortably but gracefully. They look so decorative, scattered over a terrace or in a den, that you may go mad and buy three or five (Japanese design insists on odd numbers) to take home. The Takaokaya shop and the department stores stock dozens of varieties, which cost from about Dh243.

Japanese sweets

The Nishiki food market, or “Kyoto’s pantry”, a long covered arcade lined with stalls backed by storage areas and workshops, is a daily destination for many locals and a must-see for any tourist. But while locals consider the merits of mysterious dried items, tourists’ eyes are drawn more to wagashi, or Japanese sweets. They are delicately made – mostly from boiled and pounded sticky rice or azuki-bean paste sweetened with sugar – and beautifully packaged.

A packet of 12 mochi, a squidgy little round rice cake stuffed with azuki-bean paste, typically costs about ¥1,805 (Dh60). The numerous novelty flavoured KitKats that one never sees anywhere else but Japan are fun buys: pancake, strawberry, wasabi or, best, delicate green-tea matcha flavour. Nishiki also houses a ceramics atelier, squishy soap stores and the Aritsugu knife shop.

Japanese skincare

The porcelain look of many Japanese women means skincare is often high on visitors' shopping lists, and it is fun to browse pharmacies for novelties and department store beauty sections for cult favourites. Most Japanese skincare is based on natural ingredients, and the emphasis is on thorough cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising. Brands to look for – priced at about 20 per cent less than outside Japan – include SK-II, Shiseido and Kanebo. Nationally famous products include DHC's olive-oil-based Deep Cleansing Oil (Dh102); Takami skin-peeling serum (Dh166); Kose Sekkisei Emulsion, which fades brown spots (Dh183); Kao's Megurism self-heating eye-masks (about Dh62 for 14 sheets); Isehan's smudge-proof Kiss Me Heroine Make Long & Curl mascara (Dh62); and Muji compressed face masks (at five for about Dh9, these are a bargain, and great for travelling). Best of all are the soft squishy Japanese soaps that look almost edible and are scented with cherry blossom, cinnamon and rose. Made from the konjac plant (also the source of no-calorie spaghetti) they cost about Dh60 each. One major supplier is konnyaku-shabon.com .

Cosmetic brushes and nail varnish

Hakuhodo is a renowned name in the world of make-up brushes, and its store on Teramachi Street is invariably packed with cosmetics addicts and make-up artists. Prices start from Dh55 for a little lipstick brush. Nail varnish is another surprisingly interesting Japanese buy. Gofun is a pigment traditionally used in Japanese painting, and now in the subtly but vibrantly coloured water-soluble (and thus undamaging) nail varnishes made by Ueba Esou (gofun-worldwide.com), which cost ¥1,300 (Dh43) each.

Wrapping paper, some so lovely that it could be framed as an artwork, is another example of the hard-to-resist beauty of so many everyday items in Japan. On Teramachi Street, traditional paper for drawing and painting, stationery, handmade printer paper, plus a wall of washi wrapping paper (from Dh10 to about Dh60 a sheet) makes the Unesco-listed Kamji Kakimoto ( kyoto-kakimoto.jp ) a thrill to visit. Elsewhere downtown, Uragu Hatch and Noren are stationery stores filled with irresistible little items such as pens shaped like samurai and geisha that cost ¥648 (Dh22).

The Japanese spend a lot of time padding around in their socks, and as a visitor, you will too. It is routine to remove one's outdoor shoes and slide into a pair of the waiting rank of slippers when visiting a temple, teahouse, private homes or anywhere with straw tatami mats on the floor. Because nobody wants the shame of exposing socks that are less than pristine or that have holes, much attention is paid to fit and texture, and the result is a marvellous choice. The top brands include the best-selling Tabio , with hundreds of different patterns, lengths, materials (including silk and alpaca), "occasion" socks (such as "wedding after-party"), and screen-printed and split-toe tabio socks. The prices range from about ¥800 to ¥3,000 (Dh27 to Dh100). Muji and Uniqlo, which produces sleekly fitting cotton socks in 50 different plain colours, are also good sources.

Where to stay

If you like a peaceful riverside setting away from the hustle and bustle, Suiran makes sense, with traditional cedar-wood onsen baths in wonderful tiny indoor-outdoor bathrooms and exceptionally good food in the old river-view restaurant. Double rooms cost from ¥98,000 (Dh3,274). The Tenryu-Ji Temple , a Unesco World Heritage Site, and the Gio-Ji moss-garden temple are just a five-minute stroll away.

On the edge of Gion's little streets, the new Celestine provides good value for money, with light-filled, ingeniously well-designed rooms, big buffet breakfasts, all-day free snacks and an immaculate tiny spa. Doubles cost from ¥25,300 (Dh845).

If you are happy with a kind of upmarket Airbnb, the Hosoo Residence , a two-bedroom traditional machiya house that's a showcase for Hosoo fabrics and Japan Handmade items, can be rented for ¥53,000 (Dh1,771) a night.

Biggest, best and most conveniently placed for shopping and exploring downtown Kyoto, the art-filled Ritz-Carlton , which opened in 2014, reveals all sorts of pleasing details. Highlights include large rooms with steam-room bathrooms, a serene spa (which offers excellent reflexology). Restaurant-wise, you will find Italian and French flavours, as well as Japanese, when you sink into a seat for dinner at the Meiji-era restaurant, built in 1908 and around which the hotel was constructed. The 134 rooms include 17 suites. Double rooms cost from ¥85,000 (Dh2,841).

___________

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THE 10 BEST Kyoto Shopping Malls

Shopping malls in kyoto.

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• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Southern Kyoto
• Shimogyo-ku
• City Center
• Shinkyogoku Shopping District
• Northern Kyoto
• Western Kyoto
• Good for a Rainy Day
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• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
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25. bivi nijo, 26. cocon karasuma.

27. Suina Muromachi

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Shopping in Kyoto

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• Shopping In Kyoto: 6 Extraordinary Places To Spend Some Yen Without Feeling Guilty!

23 Mar 2023

Sitting in the lap of the island of Honshu, Kyoto is a city that has emerged at the top of the bucket list of thousands of travelers. Traditional architecture, picturesque views, surreal teahouses, lush green gardens, and home to geishas, Kyoto is a destination that looks right out of a storybook! Also known as the spiritual heart of Japan, Kyoto houses about 2000 temples and shrines that allows visitors to witness monks in robes roaming from one place of worship to another, chanting the prayers. The fragrance of burning incense sticks encircling the city put the travelers in a trance. Apart from being a spiritual hub, Kyoto is a fascination destination to shop from. Shopping in Kyoto allows visitors to experience contemporary and ancient elements of the city. Selling from everything modern to numerous traditional products, Kyoto city is a haven for shopaholics out there. From canvas bags, printed socks, fashion brands, and electronic gadgets to old calligraphy sets, handicrafts, washi, yukata, and incense, everything can be found in the cheerful markets of Kyoto. Scan through this list of markets and shops that one must visit on their vacation to this spellbinding city of Kyoto.

6 Places For Shopping In Kyoto

One can not go to Kyoto markets and leave after buying just the things they needed. Making it difficult for visitors to not spend some extra pennies, shopping in Kyoto is an extraordinary experience in itself. From flea markets to high-end malls, there is no dearth of places to shop from when in Kyoto. Take a look at the places that one should not miss out when engaging in a shopping spree in this stunning city of Kyoto!

1. Nishiki Food Market

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Also known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, Nishiki Food Market houses everything related to food- from fresh produce and freshly made pickles to kitchen cookware and knives. Allowing the visitors to go on an extensive gastronomical roller coaster, this food market is a narrow, long shopping street spread over five blocks. Being famous for its cuisine, Kyoto is an action-packed city blanketing something for everyone, especially the foodies and shopaholics. This market also houses numerous food stalls that sell some of the most delectable and scrumptious dishes. Nishiki Food Market allows travelers to engage in the best shopping in Kyoto, Japan.

Location : Parallel to Shijo Avenue Timings : 9 am to 6 pm What To Buy : Fresh Seafood, Local Sweets, Sushi, Knives, Cookware

Must Read: 14 Places For Shopping In Japan That Will Make Your Shopping Experience Worth It!

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2. Teramachi Street

Surrounded by shops selling traditional and authentic Japenese goods like old scrolls, preserved antiques, green tea, and much more, Teramachi Street is a famous shopping area in Kyoto. Travelers visiting this shopping street cum arcade can also encounter some of the modern style clothing items that mostly attracts the youth residing or studying in Kyoto. For travelers looking for ways to get an insight into the Japanese culture, taking a trip to this market can surely be fruitful. From comics and rice bowls to Obi and Noren, travelers get to witness a wide variety of local items.

Location : Downtown Kyoto Timings : 10 am to 6 pm What To Buy : Japanese Sweets, Tea, Comics, Antiques, Furoshiki, Souvenirs, Apparels, Shoes, Bags

Suggested Read: Here’s Why You Must Celebrate Valentine’s Day In Japan!

3. Kobo-San Flea Market

Taking place on the 21st of every month on the ground of Toji Temple, Kobo-San Flea Market is one of the popular shopping places in Kyoto. With no dearth of stalls selling traditional Japanese products and antiques, Kobo-San or Toji Market envelops numerous hidden treasures that are worthy of spending some Yen on. The friendly stall owners, blend of modern and traditional products, and the beautiful handicrafts leave visitors in awe.

Location : Toji Temple Timings : 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (21st of every month) What To Buy : Paper Fans, Jackets, Belts, Kimono, Calligraphy Sets, Scrolls, Teapots, Flute, Tea Bowls, Traditional Chop Sticks

Suggested Read: Trekking In Japan: An All-Inclusive Guide On How To Nail It!

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4. Shinkyogoku Shopping Street

Another famous shopping street cum arcade sitting in the heart of Downtown Kyoto, Shinkyogoku Shopping Street blankets beautiful souvenirs that travelers can surely take back for their friends and families. Apart from the souvenirs, this street is a hub for all kinds of trendy fashion fixes and numerous restaurants selling scrumptious delicacies. Located parallel to the Teramachi Street, this shopping stretch attracts flocks of tourists and locals, especially the young crowd.

Location : Downtown Kyoto Timings : 10 am to 8:30 pm (Mon-Fri), 11:30 am to 8:30 pm (Sat-Sun) What To Buy : Baked Food Items, Souvenirs, Fashion Apparels, Bags, Japanese Chop Sticks, Art and Craft Products

Suggested Read: Himeji Castle: For A Mesmerizing Trip Through The Renowned Epic Architecture Of Japan!

5. Tenjin-San Flea Market

One of the largest monthly markets in Kyoto, Tenjin-San Flea Market amalgamates two of the important elements of a vacation- shopping and food. With over a thousand stalls selling unique and vintage products, and numerous food stalls serving extremely mouthwatering delectables, this flea market is nothing less than heaven on earth for shopaholics and foodies alike. Tenjin-San Flea Market is also perfect for good quality fabric shopping in Kyoto. Taking place on the 25th of every month, Tenjin-San Flea Market is held in front of the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.

Location : Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Timings : 6 am to 4 pm (25th of every month) What To Buy : Quality Fabrics, Kimono, Tea, Vintage Items, Woodworks

Suggested Read: 13 Incredible Things To Do In Winter in Japan On Your Holiday

6. Takashimaya

Acting as a one-stop shopping area, Takashimaya is a departmental store that envelops every kind of product one can think of and more. Ranging from cosmetics and high-end fashion brands like Gucci, Hermes, Tiffany to travel items and men’s apparel, there is no dearth of products in this shopping mall. This store also blankets some of the most amazing and authentic Japanese restaurants that will leave the visitors crave for more and more. Housing latest fashion trends and brands, Takashimaya is a perfect destination for those who are seeking a spot for a luxurious and lavish shopping spree in the former capital city of Japan, Kyoto.

Location : Shincho, Shimogyo Ward Timings : 10 am to 8 pm What To Buy : Home Decor, Latest Fashion Clothing, Babies’ Wear, Sports Equipment

Further Read: 10 Cool Museums In Japan For An Insight Into The Country’s Intriguing History

With no dearth of places for shopping in Kyoto, this spiritual heart of the ‘Land of Rising Sun’ is nothing less than a paradise on earth that satiates the shopaholic souls of its visitors. Blanketing products from modern times along with the traditional items, Kyoto offers a remarkable experience to the travelers visiting the city. Embracing contemporary and ancient times well, this city of Japan envelops each and every kind of product that one can think of and more. Catering to travelers with every budget, Kyoto is certainly a fascinating destination to shop. So, if you are looking for ways to satisfy the shopaholics in you or simply wish to indulge in a mini retail therapy, an enthralling vacation to Japan could be your answer!

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In Kyoto, Five Hotels to Add to Your Travel Wish List

The city’s newest crop of hotels — from a luxury retreat on a historic estate to a 10-room inn surrounded by forested mountains — were worth the wait.

By John Wogan

The pandemic lockdown in Japan coincided with a flurry of new hotels, especially in Kyoto, where the Park Hyatt, Aman and Four Seasons were joined by a group of independent properties and the first Ace hotel in the archipelago. When the country finally reopened to foreign visitors in October 2022, tourists came flooding back to the city of 800-year-old temples and bamboo forests spoiled for choice of accommodations, at a range of prices. The number continues to grow: Next month, the wellness-focused Six Senses brand will open its first Japanese outpost in the city’s Higashiyama district, home to many of the main tourist sites. Here, a look at five of Kyoto’s newer hotels that are redefining the city’s hospitality scene.

Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto

Andre Fu, the interior designer behind hotels like the Upper House in Hong Kong and Villa La Coste in Aix-en-Provence, France, has infused his signature aesthetic (extravagantly refined, with warm woods and luxurious textures) within the confines of a particularly historic area of Kyoto. The 161-room Mitsui, opened in late 2020, sits across from Nijo Castle, an enormous 17th-century compound and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s in stark contrast to the hotel, whose only timeworn element is an imposing entrance gate — a traditional wood structure over 300 years old and a remnant of the days when the Mitsui family lived on the grounds. Once past the gate, you’ll find a glass-and-steel building, designed by the Japanese architect Akira Kuryu, and landscaping that’s meant to echo the original garden pathways of the Mitsui residence, planted with cherry trees and steppingstones that meander above a glassy pond. The four food and drink venues include the French-Japanese Toki, overseen by the chef Tetsuya Asano (previously of the Ritz Paris), and the Garden Bar, strategically positioned to capture seasonal views, like the spring cherry blossoms and blazing autumnal foliage, out of massive double windows. Rooms from about $1,360 a night.

Ace Hotel Kyoto

The youthful Ace hotel brand might seem like an odd fit in staid Kyoto. But this 213-room property, which opened in 2020, fits seamlessly into the city center thanks to a collaboration between the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and the California-based design firm Commune. Kuma, who designed the Japan National Stadium (the centerpiece of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics), renovated the imposing 1920s-era, red brick Kyoto Central Telephone Office, while adding an industrial-looking building — sheathed in copper sulfide plating, cedar, glass and concrete — next door. Commune infused the guest rooms with Ace’s signature mix of bright colors and patterns: original dyed prints from the Japanese folk artist Samuro Yunoki sit alongside Tivoli radios, turntables and vintage records. The most popular part of the hotel, though, might be the street-level branch of Stumptown Coffee Roasters — the first in Japan. From about $300 a night.

Arashiyama House Mama

Like Kyoto’s dozens of temple gardens, this 10-room property offers an immediate sense of calm. Its entrance is so discreet, you could easily miss it. (Look for the flowing white cloth curtain with simple black signage, behind which is a garden path leading to a minimalist building made of wood, concrete and glass.) The hotel’s location informs the interior design: Thirty minutes west of central Kyoto, the Arashiyama district is defined by nature, with the Katsura River at its center, and filled with bamboo groves and surrounded by forested mountains. Guest rooms are simply furnished with beds, chairs and tables handmade by both Kyoto artisans and the Danish furniture maker Carl Hansen & Son, and each one has a soaking tub. Rooms from about $540 a night.

The Shinmonzen

The Gion district epitomizes Kyoto for many visitors, with its maze of narrow alleys and ryokans, traditional Japanese inns. It’s here, on a quiet side street among artists’ studios, antique shops and galleries, that the Shinmonzen opened in December 2021. Although it’s a new build, the aim was for the hotel to blend in with the surrounding structures. To accomplish this, the famed Japanese architect Tadao Ando created a wooden facade that replicates a machiya , one of the venerable townhouses found throughout Kyoto. There are only nine guest rooms, but they’re unusually spacious, and all have balconies with views of the Shirakawa River. Each one is an ode to Japanese interior elements, furnished with tatami mats, shoji (panels lined with rice paper) and cypress soaking tubs. And for dining, the chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, whose restaurant empire spans the world, devised a menu blending French, American and Asian influences, sourcing much of the produce from local farms. Rooms from about $1,500 a night.

Maana Kiyomizu

A three-suite hotel near the 16th-century Toyokuni Shrine, Maana Kiyomizu is the latest offering from Maana Homes, the small local hospitality group, which operates two other properties in the city. This one, opened in the winter of 2022, is located in Higashiyama, and is a complex of four machiya that also houses POJ Studio — a boutique that sells artisanal Japanese crafts and home goods. There’s also Kissa Kishin, the second branch of a popular Gion cafe, which serves coffee, matcha and pastries and acts as the unofficial social center for the property. The Japanese architects Uoya Shigenori and Takeshi Ikei renovated the suites to create a minimalist wabi-sabi ideal of city living, where handmade pottery from Shigaraki (a town famous for its ceramics) are the only decorative flourishes to be found. Rooms from about $560 a night.

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We Found the Most Comfortable Travel Clothing for Your Next Flight, Cruise, and Long Car Ride — and Prices Start at $11

Including customer-loved sneakers and soft overalls

Summer — a.k.a the best travel season — is around the corner. Finding comfortable travel clothing is a must, whether you’re heading out on a road trip, doing a cross-country train journey, or jetting off somewhere fabulous.

The key to staying comfortable when traveling? Loose fits, elastic waists, layers, and breathable fabrics. While that may sound like a recipe for fashion boredom, we guarantee you that Amazon’s selection of travel clothing is anything but. Below, you’ll find an editor-approved assortment of leggings, dresses, two-piece sets, overalls, sneakers, and more — all for under $45.

Best Amazon Travel Clothing Under $45

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• Hanes Seamless T-Shirt Bra , $12.64

Yesno Loose Overalls, $26 with coupon (Save 20%)

If you’re looking for something casual that goes beyond basics, check out these loose-fitting, 100 percent cotton overalls. We love how universal these are — with adjustable waist and shoulder straps, you’re pretty much guaranteed a comfortable fit customized to your body. Available in sizes S–3X, the overalls also come in 10 colors, including dark green and royal purple . 

One reviewer called these overalls “the perfect travel piece.” They wrote, “This piece went on a trip and was worn with various tops,” then added: “It’s comfortable, made of good material, and felt great during a walking tour.” 

Prettygarden Two-Piece Jogger Set, $31 (Save 20%)

Over 5,000 people agree that this two-piece set deserves five stars, and it’s easy to see why: It has a loose fit, affordable price point, and plenty of color options. With a roomy crewneck tee and pants outfitted with an elastic waist, this set is plenty comfortable enough to be worn on a plane. Plus, you can use the separates to add to outfit options on your trip.

One five-star reviewer explained :  “One of the standout features of this set is its lightweight design, which makes it perfect for traveling. I recently wore it on a long flight, and I couldn't have been more pleased with how comfortable and stylish it kept me throughout the journey.” They continued, writing, “The breathable fabric kept me feeling cool and relaxed, while the relaxed fit allowed for unrestricted movement — a must for those long hours on an airplane.”

Fullsoft High-Waisted Leggings, $11 (Save 26%)

Not only are these $11 leggings super soft, but they also are designed with a handy pocket large enough to hold keys or a phone. They’re extra stretchy, giving you optimal comfort during long journeys. Shoppers also love that the high waist actually stays up, while others appreciate that they’re not see-through. Best of all, there are summer-friendly colors like sage , purple , and light blue .

With over 3,000 Amazon shoppers having picked up a pair this month, it should come as no surprise that the leggings have received nearly 9,000 perfect ratings. One reviewer put it simply : “They will be great for traveling, an active tourist day, or running errands.” 

Be sure to head to Amazon to pick up these comfortable, stylish, and affordable travel clothes before you head on your next trip. 

Chouyatou Elastic Gingham Palazzo Pants, $23

Abboos women’s lightweight sneaker, $32 (save 15%), adidas zip-up hoodie, $42 (save 15%), libin lightweight athletic joggers, $35, athlisan knit two-piece set, $33, merokeety patterned midi skirt, $35 (save 5%), hugoome oversized crop top t-shirt, $20, hanes seamless t-shirt bra, $13, see more from people shopping.

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REI, Amazon, and More Are Having Under-the-radar Hiking Gear Sales — Shop the 10 Best Deals Up to 55% Off

A longtime backpacker shares her top picks from $17.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Spring has sprung and the trails are calling. There are parks to explore, boots to break in , and summits to reach. Whether you’re new to hiking or, like me, due for (more than) a few gear upgrades , now’s the time to expand your kit as outfitters and retailers like REI, Amazon, and Backcountry are currently running sales on hiking gear galore. For a limited time, you can score brand-name trail essentials and outdoor gear on sale for up to 55 percent off.

After all, your gear can make or break your trip, so why not use this opportunity to save big on these pricey items before your next adventure? From my tried-and-true Osprey pack to Amazon’s best-selling women’s hiking boots and hydration bladders , here are the 10 best hiking gear deals that this longtime trekker , backpacker, and traveler is eyeing. 

Osprey Archeon 45 Pack

Many seasoned hikers would agree that Osprey packs are the best on the market. They’re known for their quality, comfort, ergonomic fit, and for being truly ultra-light. Believe me, I lived out of a backpack for two years and every ounce that you don’t have to carry on your back matters. Right now, REI is offering 50 percent off this 45-liter Archeon style that’s ideally sized for multi-day hikes lasting from three days to up to a week. One reviewer called it the “best bag ever” and the most comfortable hiking pack they’ve ever worn — and after testing a range of other brands, I agree. As a bonus, it can sometimes pass as a carry-on on flights. Hurry, it's selling out fast!

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boots

Amazon’s no. 1 best-selling women’s hiking boots are also almost half off right now. With their full-grain leather uppers and eye-catching red laces, Columbia’s Newton Ridge Boots harken back to the traditional mountaineering style (a.k.a. the style resurrected by the iconic book cover of Cheryl Strayed’s “Wild”). The shoes have amassed more than 18,000 five-star ratings, with countless reviewers praising their durability and unwavering waterproof capabilities. The cushiony midsoles, arch and ankle support, and grippy traction also get high marks.

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

LifeStraw is the OG portable water filter. You can stick the best-selling filter straw right into a stream and take a sip without having to worry about harmful bacteria, parasites, and microplastics. This tiny gadget, taking up less than 9 square inches in your pack, can be a lifesaver in emergency situations or just save your back from the stress of carrying excess water. Snag it for 22 percent off now; you won't regret adding it to your pack.

Athleta Trekkie North Joggers

These joggers are made with stretchy, moisture-wicking recycled nylon meant to resist tears when you inevitably get caught up in a branch on the trail. Although I haven’t tried them myself, I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews from my hiking friends — and just one look at the glowing testimonies from REI shoppers will tell you that these are quality hiking pants . This highly rated Trekkie North style is starting at $49, and sizes are selling out quickly.

Zimfem Portable Camping Chair

For this summer’s overnight hikes or the times when you just want a comfy seat when you reach your destination , a portable camping chair comes in handy. At 4.7 pounds, this is perhaps not the best chair to cover long distances with — proper backpacking chairs weigh more like 2 pounds to mere ounces — but it’s a very affordable option for shorter treks when you have room in your bag for a luxury item. Despite being a new release, it's already generating a lot of buzz among Amazon shoppers (more than 1,000 units were sold in the last month, according to the retailer). For packing convenience, the fabric seat separates from the frame, which folds down to fit into a relatively compact 17-inch by 7-inch carrying sack.

Gonii Low-cut Hiking Socks 4-pack

Good hiking socks are the key to preventing blisters. You want a material that balances breathability with cushioning, and Amazon reviewers say that these cotton-blend athletic ankle socks by Gonii hit that sweet spot. In fact, a shopper was happy to report that they kept their feet cool on a scorching-hot 20-mile walk. They come in your standard white, black, and gray hues, as well as fun pastels and bright colors. For a pack of five pairs, $15 is a true bargain.

Stoic Venture UPF Sun Hoodie

Backcountry

On a recent hike under the relentless sun in Sedona, Arizona, I noticed that the most seasoned and prepared people on the trail sported hoodies — a counterintuitive move when the temperature is approaching triple digits, but one that your skin will thank you for. This Stoic sun hoodie, on sale for 55 percent off at Backcountry, has UPF 50+ protection built right into it, making it a wearable sun shade. It’s made with lightweight and moisture-wicking recycled polyester, so you don’t have to worry about overheating or lingering sweat patches.

Baen Sendi 2-liter Hydration Bladder 2-pack

Maybe you’re the type to never leave home without your emotional support water bottle, but on the trail, hands-free hydration is the way to go . At 20 percent off, this pack of two Baen Sendi bladders is less than the price of one single CamelBak replacement reservoir (and way less than the buzzy water bottles and tumblers on TikTok). Reviewers say that it works just as well as its pricier counterparts and fits perfectly inside their brand-name hydration packs. 

Willit Hiking Shorts

Thousands of Amazon shoppers have given these Willit Hiking Shorts five-star ratings for their comfort, stretch, and durability. They’re super versatile and can be worn off the trail, too — the hallmark of the perfect travel shorts. You get your pick of almost 30 colors and patterns like trail-ready camo and sleek graphite gray. They’re normally priced at $34, but with Amazon’s 26-percent-off deal plus an extra 10-percent-off coupon, they’re only $23 (a steal). 

SealLine 5-liter Dry Bag

Helpful on drizzly days, in unexpected showers, and when you’re keen to cool off in a stream on your hike, a dry bag separates the wet from the dry — and is a useful tool to safeguard your valuables. Throw your camera gear and other electronics in it to protect them from water damage, or save it to hold your soaked swimwear until you get back to the campsite clothesline. In addition to hikes, this 5-liter dry bag is good to have handy for kayaking and paddleboarding missions.

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