Located in the heart of Kyoto, Nishiki Market, also known as “Kyoto’s kitchen “, is a market closely connected to the lives of the local people and has a history of over 400 years, offering a wide variety of fresh ingredients, traditional Kyoto cuisine, and handmade sweets, all of which can be enjoyed only in Kyoto.
In this article, we will introduce the charm of Nishiki Market, its highlights, and how to access it!
Table of Contents
What is Nishiki Market?
Nishiki Market is one of Kyoto’s oldest shopping streets, with approximately 120 stores lining the street. A wide variety of products, including traditional Kyoto vegetables, marine products, dried foods, pickles, and Japanese sweets, attract visitors to the market.
History of Nishiki Market
The history of Nishiki Market dates back to the Edo period. It began as a fish market and gradually grew to include stores selling a variety of foodstuffs and daily necessities. The market has continued to grow and today is one of the most famous markets in Kyoto.
Highlights
Traditional Kyoto vegetables
Many stores sell a variety of vegetables unique to Kyoto, and the variety of Kyoto vegetables is astonishing. Dishes using these vegetables offer a taste unique to Kyoto.
Kyoto Cuisine and Japanese Sweets
Kyoto cuisine restaurants and long-established Japanese sweets stores are another major attraction of Nishiki Market. Dishes and confectionaries that reflect the changing of the seasons will soothe the hearts of visitors.
Eating and Walking
Nishiki Market offers a wide variety of gourmet foods such as grilled fish on skewers, onigiri (rice balls), tofu dishes, etc., which can be easily eaten while strolling through the market. Visitors can enjoy a variety of tastes while feeling the lively atmosphere that only a market can offer.
What are popular souvenirs?
Popular souvenirs at Nishiki Market include accessories with chic Kyoto-style designs, Kyoto pickles, and sweets using matcha green tea. These will make wonderful souvenirs that you can take home with you the taste and charm of Kyoto!
How to get there
Nishiki Market is about a 5-minute walk from Shijo Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line or Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line. Located in the center of Kyoto, it is convenient to visit during a break from sightseeing.
Recommended time to visit
Nishiki Market can be enjoyed all year round, but a visit during the peak of the season, when fresh produce is in abundance, is especially rich in flavor. Also, if you visit early in the morning, you can get a feel for the lifestyle of the locals.
Tips for Enjoying Nishiki Market
When visiting Nishiki Market, we recommend that you take your time and look around each store. Also, by enjoying conversations with store owners, you will learn the stories behind the ingredients and products, which will make your experience even more profound.
Conclusion
Nishiki Market, where Kyoto’s traditions and culture come alive, is a valuable place not only to find food and souvenirs, but also to experience the everyday life of Kyoto. When you visit Kyoto, be sure to visit Nishiki Market and enjoy its charms to the fullest!
