Last visit: December 2023
My rating: 8/10
The Nishiki Market, also known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kyoto. Located in the heart of the city's commercial district, the market is a true paradise for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of tradition, flavors, and vibrant colors.
Less renowned than the more famous Tsukiji Market in Tokyo or Dotonbori in Osaka, Nishiki has nothing to envy of its well-known counterparts and may even surprise you with its charm.
What is Nishiki Market in Kyoto?
Nishiki Market is a covered market approximately 400 meters long, stretching across five blocks in the heart of Kyoto. With over 130 shops and stalls, it is a landmark of local cuisine, offering fresh ingredients, prepared dishes, and a variety of traditional Japanese products.
Open for more than four centuries, the market has a long history as a hub for fresh fish and other foods. Today, while maintaining strong ties to its roots, Nishiki Market is also a popular destination for tourists seeking authentic experiences.
Unlike Tsukiji, which features a grid layout reminiscent of Roman decumanus planning, Nishiki unfolds entirely along a large corridor flanked on both sides by stalls offering every imaginable product. Moreover, while Tsukiji was originally established primarily as a fish market, Nishiki is a true all-purpose food market, where virtually any type of food product can be found.
Finally, if Tsukiji has evolved into a major tourist attraction with significant visibility on social media, Nishiki likely owes its focus on quality to its comparatively lower visibility. At Tsukiji, there are undoubtedly exceptional products, but the market's tourist-oriented nature has also led to the proliferation of shops offering more average-quality goods at higher prices. This is not the case at Nishiki, where the overall quality is noticeably higher, and the atmosphere far less tourist-driven.
How to Get to Nishiki Market
Nishiki Market is just a few minutes' walk from Karasuma and Shijo stations. The main public transport lines connecting to the market include:
Karasuma Subway Line: Alight at Shijo Station and walk east for about 5 minutes.
Hankyu Kyoto Line: Alight at Karasuma Station and follow the signs to Nishiki-dori.
For those who enjoy walking, the market is also easily reachable from other famous spots like Gion, about a 20-minute walk away.
Opening Hours
The market is generally open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but hours may vary depending on the shop. Many stores are closed on Wednesdays or Sundays, so it is advisable to plan your visit accordingly.
What to Eat at Nishiki Market
One of the most fascinating aspects of Nishiki Market is the opportunity to taste a wide range of local specialties. Here are some of the most popular dishes:
Tako Tamago
A small octopus glazed with a sweet sauce and stuffed with a quail egg. This snack is a symbol of the market, perfect for those looking to try something unique.
Yuba
Tofu skin, known as yuba, is a traditional Kyoto food. It can be enjoyed fresh or fried and is a delicious option for vegetarians and vegans.
Yakitori
Grilled chicken skewers marinated in flavorful sauces. They are perfect for a quick snack as you explore the market.
Mochi and Japanese Sweets
You’ll find a wide variety of mochi filled with anko (red bean paste), matcha, or other local flavors. Don’t forget to try dorayaki and taiyaki as well.
Tsukemono
Japanese pickles, called tsukemono, are a specialty of Kyoto. At Nishiki Market, you can find a wide selection, ranging from radish-based pickles to eggplant varieties.
Raw Fish
For the Western visitor, raw fish dishes like ikura, sashimi, and chirashi are a must. Nishiki offers these at outstanding quality. However, be careful not to focus only on the dishes most familiar in the West, as you might miss out on the authentic specialties of local cuisine.
Experiences Not to Miss
Beyond enjoying the food, there are many other experiences that make a visit to Nishiki Market truly unique.
Buy Traditional Knives
Nishiki Market offers stores selling artisanal kitchen knives crafted in the Japanese tradition. These high-quality tools make excellent souvenirs or essential instruments for passionate chefs. However, for the best knife shopping experience, consider other destinations like Tsukiji or Kappabashi in Tokyo, or the Sakai district in Osaka.
Watch Culinary Demonstrations
Some shops host live demonstrations, such as preparing dashimaki (Japanese omelette) or handling fresh fish. These displays are a great way to learn about Japanese culinary techniques.
Visit Traditional Goods Stores
Beyond food, the market features a variety of traditional items like chopsticks, ceramics, and textiles. Some stores even offer chopstick personalization services, allowing you to engrave your name—an excellent opportunity for a unique souvenir.
Tips for a Perfect Visit
Peak Hours: The market can get very crowded, especially in the afternoon. Visiting early in the morning allows you to enjoy the market with fewer crowds. Even in the afternoon, however, the market never reaches the overwhelming crowd levels of Tsukiji and retains a lively atmosphere frequented by locals.
Cash: Some shops don’t accept credit cards, so it’s best to carry yen in cash. That said, I found this issue less prevalent than what I had read online.
Don’t Eat While Walking: In Japan, it’s considered impolite to eat while walking. Look for designated areas to enjoy the food you’ve purchased.
Respect the Environment: Bring a reusable bag to minimize plastic waste and contribute to a more sustainable experience.
Conclusion
Nishiki Market is one of Kyoto’s most fascinating attractions—a place where culture, cuisine, and history converge. Compared to more renowned markets, Nishiki might just be the best place to explore traditional Japanese cuisine and enjoy high-quality food.
Comments