Kyoto Markets: 5 Best Markets to Visit in Kyoto

Even a simple stroll down a major street counts as sightseeing in Kyoto. Expect to see shrines and temples on every other corner, and many historical houses in-between. 

The cultural capital of Japan is also home to different local food and crafts markets, each with their own unique character. These markets offer a variety of goods, from fresh produce and delicious street food to artisanal handicrafts and souvenirs. 

Some of the most popular markets in Kyoto include Nishiki Market and Tenjin-san Flea Market. Nishiki Market is known for its fresh produce and delicious street food, while the Tenjin-san flea market is a great place to find handmade goodies. 

They are a great place to find some truly special items. Include at least one of these five markets in your Kyoto itinerary.

Nishiki Market, nicknamed "Kyoto's Kitchen," is one of the best food markets in Kyoto and also one of the most well known. According to historical records, it started as a fish wholesale district in 1310 and has since grown into a massive cornerstone of Kyoto's culinary heritage with the current market spanning 390 meters. 

It's a great place to find fresh produce, seasonal foods, and Kyoto specialties. Occasionally, food stall vendors offer samples of their dishes. You can also try small dishes from restaurants and stalls that use the very same ingredients sold elsewhere in the market. 

Visiting Nishiki Market is a must if you're interested in experiencing over 400 years of culinary development. One important note: Walking and eating is considered rude, so stay wherever you purchase your food and devour it on the spot. 

Nishiki Market has so many shops and stalls that deciding what foods to try can be overwhelming. With a local guide by your side, you can try some of the best dishes that represent Kyoto’s culinary culture in this Nishiki Market food tour. 

Eat delicious seafood skewers, takoyaki and sashimi while washing it all down with a shot of sake. You’ll also learn how some of these popular foods are made as you explore the stalls of Nishiki Market.

Don't be fooled by its name; Tenjin-san Flea Market is not your run-of-the-mill flea market. This local market in Kyoto offers high-quality goods from local artisans. Held once a month at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, it has over 1,000 vendors selling clothes, food, fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. 

Considered one of the best markets in Kyoto, it's a great place to find bargains and unique items. Unlike Nishiki Market, Tenjin-san Flea Market takes place in an uncovered area. Bad weather and other environmental factors should be considered when heading out to shop. 

An interesting change of pace is the Kobo Ichi Market, held at Toji Temple as part of a monthly religious commemoration of the death of the monk Kobo Daishi. 

He is responsible for the temple's striking five-story pagoda that towers over the low rise buildings in the area. During your visit to Kobo Ichi Market, you might encounter patrons and monks doing chants and other rituals in his honor. 

The market features over 1,000 food, crafts, and clothing stalls, making it the largest outdoor market in Kyoto and a unique alternative to Nishiki Market. 

Pro tip: Don't be afraid to do some light (and reasonable) bargaining with vendors to get the most bang for your buck.

Hyakumanben Handicrafts market is held on the 15th of every month at Chion-ji Temple. This is a popular market in Kyoto for handicrafts, including clothes, bread, and sweets. 

Only handmade goods are allowed here and with every purchase, you will support local entrepreneurs, artisans, and craftspeople. 

Stalls are chosen by a lottery system to ensure new vendors can participate each month, keeping things fresh. Note that some stalls may only accept cash, so stop at an ATM on your way to the market.

The easily accessible Umekoji Handicrafts Market is held near Kyoto Station, the transportation hub of the city. Like the other Kyoto markets on this list, it offers more than just handicrafts. But it sets itself apart by featuring a truly diverse selection of vendors. 

It's a great place to find both foreign and local items, including handmade accessories, pottery, freshly made food, and baked goods. 

The market is also near the Kyoto Railway Museum and the Kyoto Aquarium. Bring the kids for a fun day out with the family.

The park is spacious, so make sure to wear proper shoes to accommodate the sheer amount of walking you'll undoubtedly do.

Kyoto is known for delicious foods, but these are some of the most popular dishes that you should try:

• Yudofu: a simple but delicious dish made with soft tofu simmered in dashi broth with soy sauce and kombu. It's served with a dipping sauce of ponzu or vinegar. 

• Tsukemono: a variety of pickled Japanese vegetables that are a staple of Japanese cuisine. They are often served as part of a meal or as a snack. 

• Matcha: a powdered green tea used in many dishes, including sweets, desserts, and even cheesecake. 

• Yatsuhashi: a Japanese confectionery made with glutinous rice flour. It comes in a variety of flavors, though the most common are cinnamon and matcha. 

• Soba: Japanese buckwheat noodles served with a dipping sauce. Many restaurants in Kyoto specialize in soba, which can be served hot or cold.

Spend the morning exploring Nishiki Market and interacting with the local vendors while an experienced guide provides insights into the rich history and culture of the popular Kyoto market. 

You’ll try several staple Kyoto favorites like tsukemono, wagashi (Japanese sweets), meat skewers and silky smooth tofu. Savor the fresh local flavors of each dish while also keeping your eye out for good deals and shopping opportunities at the seemingly endless stalls. 

Kyoto cuisine has distinctive characteristics expressed through flavor and presentation. Get your foodie fix at a food market or, for a more formal experience, check out our list of what to eat in Kyoto for a guide on the local specialties. 

Although the most famous food market in Kyoto is Nishiki Market, many other markets in Kyoto are well worth the visit. You're sure to find a variety of small treats to munch on while you peruse the stalls. No matter which market you check out, you’ll surely leave with your heart full and your wallet significantly lighter.

Each market mentioned in this list operates on a very regular schedule. You can see upcoming events on the Kyoto City travel website.

Hungry for more? Check out our guides to the most popular markets in Osaka and the best food and fish markets in Tokyo. If you are looking for more upscale dining experiences during your time in Kyoto, explore some of the best fine dining restaurants in Kyoto.