Nishiki Market
4.3
(48.7k)Nishiki Market is a 400-year-old food market in downtown Kyoto, often called "Kyoto's kitchen" for its abundance of shops. It's a lively, colorful place packed with stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and snacks to traditional sweets and souvenirs. The market runs for about 400m as a narrow, cobblestone shopping arcade.
Address
Higashiuoyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan
Phone
+81 75-211-3882
Worth it?
Worth it if you want a vibrant, energetic atmosphere and don't mind crowds
Skip if you're looking for a quiet, relaxed shopping experience. Come early to avoid the busiest times
Location
Higashiuoyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan
Nearby places
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Highlights
The covered walkways provide shelter from the rain, making it a good option even on wet days.
You can find a wide variety of delicious street food, fresh seafood, and local specialties, including mochi, grilled seafood, and local pickles.
Nearby eats
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Who it's for
Foodies, families, and anyone who enjoys browsing and people-watching will find this market a fun place to explore. It's great for those wanting to experience local culture and taste authentic Kyoto flavors.
Know before you go
The market gets very crowded, so consider visiting around 10:30 AM on a weekday to experience it with fewer people.
Nearby stays
Reviews
4.3
Very good
5 ReviewsVisitors consistently highlight the market's vibrant atmosphere and the wide array of delicious street food, fresh seafood, and local specialties available at reasonable prices. Many appreciate the friendly vendors and the covered walkways, which are a plus on rainy days. However, be prepared for crowds, especially later in the day.
Fun facts
The sale of fish in this area began as early as 782, thanks to cold groundwater that helped keep fish fresh near the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
In 1615, the market officially received permission from the Bakufu government to sell fish, marking a significant step in its development.
The current cobblestone floor was installed in 1984, and the arcade canopy was added in 1993.
