Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen', this lively retail market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware.

Nishiki Market, located in the heart of Kyoto, is a must-visit destination for food lovers. Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen', this bustling market is a food paradise, offering a wide variety of local delicacies, fresh produce, and unique culinary experiences. /n The market is a long, narrow, and covered shopping street lined with more than a hundred shops and stalls. Each shop at the market specializes in a particular type of food or ingredient used in Japanese cooking. You can find everything from fresh seafood and seasonal fruits and vegetables to Japanese sweets, pickles, dried food, and sushi. Many shops offer samples or sell food ready to eat, making it a great place to snack while exploring. /n Besides food, the market also sells cookware, knives, and other kitchen utensils, making it a one-stop-shop for food enthusiasts. The market's lively atmosphere, combined with its wide variety of food and goods, makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It's not just a place to shop, but also a place to experience the food culture of Kyoto and Japan.

Nishiki Market is a bustling food market in Kyoto, offering a variety of local delicacies and fresh produce.

A narrow alley running from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori, one block west of Kamogawa River, filled with restaurants and teahouses.

Pontocho Alley is one of Kyoto's most atmospheric dining areas. It is a narrow alley running from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori, one block west of Kamogawa River. The alley is packed with restaurants on both sides offering a wide range of dining options from inexpensive yakitori to traditional and modern Kyoto cuisine, foreign cuisine and highly exclusive establishments that require the right connections and a fat wallet. /n During the warmer months, many restaurants open their balconies for riverside dining, providing a wonderful view of the Kamogawa River. The area is also known for its traditional architecture, with many buildings retaining the design and feel of old Kyoto. Walking through Pontocho Alley, with its lantern-lit streets and intimate establishments, is like stepping back in time. It's a must-visit for any food lover or anyone looking to experience the traditional side of Kyoto nightlife.

Pontocho Alley is a narrow, atmospheric street in Kyoto, known for its traditional architecture and vibrant nightlife.

Held on the 21st of every month, this flea market at Toji Temple is one of the largest in Kyoto. It's a great place to find antiques, food, clothes, and other items. The temple itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its five-story pagoda, the tallest in Japan.

Toji Temple's monthly flea market, also known as Kōbō-san, is a beloved tradition in Kyoto. Held on the 21st of every month, the market attracts locals and tourists alike with its wide variety of goods. /n From antiques and vintage items to handmade crafts, clothing, and plants, there's something for everyone at this bustling market. Food stalls offering delicious local cuisine add to the festive atmosphere. The market is held in the grounds of Toji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding a cultural element to the shopping experience. Whether you're a bargain hunter, a food lover, or just enjoy soaking up the lively atmosphere, Toji Temple's monthly flea market is a must-visit.

A monthly flea market held at Toji Temple, offering a variety of goods.

An important Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.

Fushimi Inari Shrine is an important Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto. It is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings. The trails lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which stands at 233 meters and belongs to the shrine grounds. /n Fushimi Inari is the most important of several thousands of shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. Foxes are thought to be Inari's messengers, resulting in many fox statues across the shrine grounds. Fushimi Inari Shrine has ancient origins, predating the capital's move to Kyoto in 794.

Fushimi Inari Shrine is a significant Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.

Discover the timeless charm of Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital. Immerse yourself in its rich history by visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites like Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera, a temple offering panoramic city views. Wander through the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousand red torii gates. Experience the traditional tea ceremony in Gion, the city's geisha district, or stroll along the Philosopher's Path during cherry blossom season. Savor authentic Japanese cuisine, from kaiseki dining to street food in Nishiki Market. Kyoto seamlessly blends the old and the new, offering a unique cultural experience that leaves every visitor enchanted.

Nishiki Market

Pontocho Alley

Start your day with a visit to the bustling Nishiki Market. Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen', this vibrant food market is a feast for the senses. Here, you can sample a variety of local delicacies and browse the many stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Japanese sweets.

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at one of the many eateries in the market. Try some sushi or a bowl of ramen, or opt for a bento box for a variety of flavors.

After lunch, head to the Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades. These parallel running arcades are packed with shops selling everything from clothes and accessories to souvenirs and traditional Japanese crafts.

For dinner, explore the Pontocho Alley. This narrow alley is lined with a variety of restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines. Choose a place that catches your eye and enjoy a leisurely meal.

After dinner, take a stroll along the Kamo River. The riverside is beautifully lit up at night, making it a perfect spot for a romantic evening walk.

Exploring the Markets and Shopping Arcades of Kyoto

Toji Temple's monthly flea market

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Kick off your second day with a visit to the Toji Temple's monthly flea market. Held on the 21st of every month, this market is a great place to find antiques, clothes, food, and more.

Have lunch at one of the many food stalls at the flea market. Try some takoyaki (octopus balls) or okonomiyaki (savory pancake), two popular street food dishes in Japan.

In the afternoon, visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, this shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan.

For dinner, head to the Gion district. Known as Kyoto's geisha district, Gion is home to many high-end restaurants serving traditional Japanese cuisine.

End your day with a walk around the historic Gion district. The area is beautifully lit up at night, offering a glimpse into the traditional side of Kyoto.

A Day of Flea Market Finds and Historic Shrines

UTC+9

Kyoto City Bus is a convenient and popular means of transportation for both locals and tourists. It covers the city extensively including many of Kyoto's top attractions. English announcements and signs are available.

Kyoto has two subway lines: the Karasuma Line and the Tozai Line. They are not as extensive as the bus network, but they are a good option for certain routes, especially during rush hour when the roads can be congested.

Japan Railways (JR) operates a few local lines that are useful for tourists, especially the Sagano Line and the Nara Line. The JR lines are covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

In addition to JR, there are a few private railway lines which can be useful for tourists, including the Keihan Line, the Hankyu Line, and the Kintetsu Line. These lines connect Kyoto with nearby cities like Osaka and Nara.

Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore Kyoto, especially the Higashiyama District and Arashiyama where attractions are located close together. There are many rental shops around the city, especially near major train stations.

Taxis are a convenient but more expensive way to get around Kyoto. They can be found at taxi stands at train stations or hailed on the streets. Most taxi drivers do not speak English, but they usually have a GPS system. It's a good idea to have your destination written in Japanese.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Kyoto, but they are not as common or as cheap as they are in some other countries. They can be a good option if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

Many of Kyoto's attractions are located close together, especially in areas like Higashiyama and Arashiyama, making walking a viable option. The city is also very pedestrian-friendly with lots of signs in English.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the outskirts of Kyoto or other parts of the Kansai region. However, driving in Kyoto city can be challenging due to the narrow streets and heavy traffic. Plus, parking can be expensive and hard to find.

A traditional multi-course Japanese dinner that is considered the epitome of Japanese cuisine in Kyoto. It features seasonal and local ingredients.

Kaiseki

A type of powdered green tea that is a specialty of Kyoto. It is often served in traditional tea ceremonies.

Matcha

Buckwheat noodles that are a popular dish in Kyoto. They can be served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a soup.

Soba

A delicacy in Kyoto, yuba is the skin that forms on the surface when soy milk is boiled. It can be eaten raw, cooked, or used in various dishes.

Yuba

A hot tofu dish that is a winter specialty in Kyoto. It is typically served with a soy-based sauce and vegetables.

Yudofu

A traditional Japanese rice wine that is often served warm. Kyoto is known for its high-quality sake due to the purity of its water sources.

Sake

A dish consisting of seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep-fried. It is a popular dish in Kyoto.

Tempura

Japanese pickles that are a staple in Kyoto cuisine. They are often served as a side dish or used as a garnish.

Tsukemono

Thick wheat noodles that are a popular dish in Kyoto. They can be served in a variety of ways, including in a hot soup or with a dipping sauce.

Udon

Grilled eel that is a delicacy in Kyoto. It is often served over rice in a dish called unadon.

Unagi

A type of vegetarian cuisine that was developed by Buddhist monks in Kyoto. It is made without meat, fish, or other animal products.

Shojin Ryori

A type of sushi that is a specialty of Kyoto. It often features cured or cooked ingredients, in contrast to the raw fish commonly used in other types of sushi.

Kyoto-style Sushi

New Year's Day

Day off for New Year's Day

Coming of Age Day

National Foundation Day

Emperor's Birthday

Spring Equinox

Shōwa Day

Constitution Memorial Day

Greenery Day

Children's Day

Sea Day

Mountain Day

Respect for the Aged Day

Autumn Equinox

Sports Day

Culture Day

Labor Thanksgiving Day

National Foundation Day observed

Children's Day observed

Day off for Mountain Day

Autumn Equinox observed

Culture Day observed

Famous for its free-roaming deer and historical temples.

Nara Park

One of Japan's most famous landmarks with a five-story castle keep.

Osaka Castle

A shopping and entertainment district along the waterfront of Kobe's port area.

Kobe Harborland

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as White Heron Castle due to its elegant, white appearance.

Himeji Castle

A popular destination for outdoor activities with beautiful views of Lake Biwa.

Biwako Valley

The center of Shingon Buddhism, home to an active monastic center.

Mount Koya

One of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, known for its scenic beauty.

Okayama Korakuen Garden

A memorial park in the center of Hiroshima, dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima as the first city in the world to suffer a nuclear attack.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Famous for Itsukushima Shrine with its floating torii gate.

Miyajima

Known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums and regional handicrafts.

Kanazawa

Fukuoka

Hakone

Hiroshima

Morioka

Mount Fuji

Okinawa

Osaka

Sapporo

Tokyo

Yokohama

Arashiyama in autumn season along the river

Buddhist stone statues at the Otagi Nenbutsu ji temple

Kyoto is a city that respects its traditions. As a visitor, you should also respect these traditions and customs.

Japanese people are very polite and respectful. It is customary to bow when greeting someone.

The official language is Japanese. While some people may speak English, it is not widely spoken. It may be helpful to learn a few basic Japanese phrases.

The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments.

Tipping is not customary in Japan. In fact, it can sometimes be seen as rude or confusing.

The city is very safe, but like any other place, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Public transportation in Kyoto is excellent. The city has an extensive bus and subway system, and taxis are also readily available.

Kyoto is a pedestrian-friendly city with many areas best explored on foot. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

The city is known for its beautiful gardens and temples. Dress modestly when visiting these sites.

Kyoto can be quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Be prepared for crowds at popular sites and on public transportation.

The climate in Kyoto is temperate, with four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 90°F (32°C), while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 32°F (0°C).

It's important to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Vending machines selling drinks are widely available throughout the city.

Japanese food is a highlight of any visit to Kyoto. Be adventurous and try local specialties like kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) and yudofu (tofu hot pot).

Smoking is not allowed on the streets in most areas in Kyoto. Look for designated smoking areas.

Public restrooms are generally clean and well-maintained in Kyoto. Western-style toilets are common, but you may also encounter traditional Japanese squat toilets.

If you're planning to visit multiple attractions, consider getting a one-day or two-day bus pass. It can save you money on transportation costs.

Shopping in Kyoto can be a unique experience. From traditional crafts to modern fashion, there's something for everyone.

It's considered rude to talk loudly or use your cell phone on public transportation. Keep your voice down and avoid phone calls.

Always stand on the left side on escalators, the right side is for people in a hurry.

Remember to remove your shoes when entering a traditional Japanese home or certain traditional restaurants and temples.

January is the coldest month in Kyoto, with occasional snowfall. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy serene, snowy landscapes.

February is still quite cold, with less snow but more clear, sunny days. Ideal for those who enjoy cooler weather.

March sees the start of spring, with temperatures gradually increasing. The cherry blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month.

April is one of the most popular months to visit Kyoto due to the full bloom of cherry blossoms. The weather is pleasantly warm during the day.

May is comfortably warm, with plenty of sunshine and greenery. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and gardens.

June marks the start of the rainy season in Kyoto. Despite the rain, the lush greenery and hydrangea blooms make it a beautiful time to visit.

July is hot and humid, with the rainy season ending mid-month. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions like museums and temples.

August is the hottest month in Kyoto. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy summer festivals and fireworks.

September is still warm, but with less humidity. The start of autumn foliage makes it a beautiful time to visit.

October offers comfortable temperatures and stunning autumn foliage. It's one of the best times to visit Kyoto.

November is cool and crisp, with the autumn foliage at its peak. It's a great time to explore the city's gardens and temples.

December is chilly, but clear and often sunny. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy Christmas lights and end-of-year festivities.

When visiting Kyoto, Japan, it's important to be aware of the city's distinct four seasons and prepare accordingly. 

Spring (March to May) is a popular time to visit Kyoto, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). This is also the cherry blossom season, so expect some crowds. Light layers and a rain jacket are recommended as there can be occasional showers.

Summer (June to August) in Kyoto can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 95°F (35°C). It's advisable to stay hydrated, wear light, breathable clothing, and use sunscreen. Also, be prepared for the rainy season (Tsuyu) in June and July.

Autumn (September to November) is another beautiful season to visit Kyoto, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). The fall foliage is a sight to behold. Pack some light layers as it can get cooler, especially in the evenings.

Winter (December to February) can be quite cold with temperatures dropping to around 32°F (0°C). Snowfall is rare but possible. Warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat, are essential.

Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Also, remember that Kyoto is a city best explored on foot, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.

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2-Day Local Kyoto Itinerary: Ultimate Shopping & Foodie Experience

About Kyoto, Japan