Nishiki Market, Kyoto(GoogleMap)

Stepping into “Kyoto’s kitchen,” as Nishiki Market is fondly known, will take you into a world of culinary treats and tools, all tempting to take home. The nearly 400-meter-long market has over 400 years of history and holds on tight to the traditions of the ancient city, with local crafts and ingredients, as well as its own shrine.

Official records show that the market opened in 1615, with three local fish wholesalers initially recognized by the shogunate, eventually growing into the 100+ stalls we see today. There are some, however, who believe the site has been home to some form of fish market dating as far back as 782, and it’s all down to the Nishiki water. Called “Nishiki no Mizu” in Japanese, this excellent-quality groundwater remains at a cool 15–18 degrees Celsius year-round, perfect for preserving fresh produce. In the early days of the modern market, each stall had a well to lower their items into for cold storage, and a source of fresh water to wash and prepare with.

Heaping barrels of colorful tsukemono (Japanese pickles) tempt passersby (京都フリー写真素材集 )

Today, if you take a stroll to the market, you’ll find much more than fish for sale, with pickles, alcohol, fresh produce, tableware, sweets and souvenir snacks all waiting to be sampled. Head to Edo-originated Masugo to try tsukemono—traditional pickled vegetables and be sure to visit Uchida, which sports barrels piled high with their own special-recipe pickles. Another favorite, Takakuraya, has opened a standing bar next to the shop, serving local dishes and drinks for those seeking a break in their shopping.

Kyo-yasai are heirloom vegetables unique to Kyoto, prized for their rich minerals and deep flavor. These include varieties of eggplant, bamboo shoots, and carrots that have been cultivated for generations. At Nishiki Market, Yontora has specialized in Kyo-yasai since 1910, and the friendly staff are always happy to recommend the best seasonal picks. For a taste of Kyoto’s culinary comfort food, head to Miki Keiran for their fluffy, flavorful dashimaki omelets, or Fufusa Rouho for the chewy Kyoto-style nama-fu (wheat gluten cakes)—each one a unique blend of texture and tradition. Another savory highlight is Yubakichi, a shop dating back to 1790, where yuba (soymilk skin) is made on-site using that special Nishiki water.

A fresh selection of Kyo-yasai, Kyoto’s traditional vegetables grown for generations with care and regional pride (Representative image)

If you are seeking fish, stop by Daiyasu’s oyster bar or try grilled skewers from nearby seafood stalls. One of Nishiki’s ten oldest shops, Yamaichi offers an impressive range of dried fish. The Kaisen Hotate Center serves donburi rice bowls topped with fresh seafood, while Uoriki welcomes diners looking to enjoy their expertly grilled fish dishes at a sit-down table.

For the sweet-toothed, wagashi (Japanese confectionery) are a delightful way to experience the seasons—many are crafted to reflect the time of year, so there’s always something new to discover. Sawawa is the place to head for matcha sweet enthusiasts, while Mame Shofuku is known for its confections made with Tanba-kuro, a prized variety of black soybean. No visit would be complete without a trip to Kofukudo, a shop that has been perfecting its delicate sweets since 1868. Try their artistically crafted nerikiri (soft confection made from bean paste and rice flour) often depicting seasonal motifs or their signature Gojo Giboshi Monaka shaped like the iconic decorations from Gojo Ohashi Bridge.

Freshly made matcha warabi-mochi served with ice cream and a drizzle of dark molasses (Representative image)

While sweets make great souvenirs, Nishiki Market also offers an array of culinary and craft items. Browse the many furikake (rice seasoning) shops for unique flavors, or explore the local tableware offerings. Aritsugu is the famous go-to shop for Japanese knives, while Kidoairaku sells handmade and hand painted pottery—perfect for gifts or a special keepsake from your trip.

Once you’ve filled your stomach and your shopping bags, there’s plenty to see nearby as Nishiki is located in the heart of Kyoto. It runs parallel to the popular shopping street of Shijo-dori and is a short walk from the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Yasaka-jinja Shrine and the beautiful Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka walkways. Be sure to visit early and stock up on snacks for a day of exploring!

For more details, contact DMC Japan to discuss ideas, locations and rates.
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