Nishiki Market Tours

Photo provided by City of Kyoto and Kyoto Tourism Council
Nishiki Market
Nishiki Market


Come to this market in the heart of the city to experience the authentic sights, smells and sounds of the bartering vendors and their traditional food.

Traditional Japanese food is the order of the day in the Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto’s Kitchen. The market plays host to hundreds of restaurants, shops and temporary stalls selling culinary supplies from fresh seafood to knives. Shops sell either food or utensils with which to prepare it. A stark contrast to the serene and humble temples, shrines and museums, Nishiki Market is the perfect place to experience the typical hustle and bustle of food trade at the core of Kyoto.

Discover famous Kyoto specialties, such as sushi and dried seafood. Browse the shops, which range in size from tiny stalls to large buildings. Many of them specialize in a certain type of food, most of which is procured in the region. Try your luck with some free samples as vendors try to tempt you into making a purchase. Sit down at one of the small restaurants for lunch amid the food-crazed atmosphere. Try out a soy ice cream, oysters or even an octopus skewer.

The market dates back to the 17th century when fish was the sole item on the menu. As the market grew, the stall count rose to more than 130 and helped to create a greater variety of food on sale. The majority of shops have been family-owned for many generations. Today, the bazaar stretches across five blocks with its culinary delights and is sheltered by a multicolored glass roof. Shops are generally open from the morning until the afternoon. Many close on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Nishiki Market is based in the Nakagyo Ward in the northeast of Kyoto. It is right by Shijō Station. It can be found on the Karasuma Subway Line, only a few minutes from the grand Kyoto Station. The Kamogawa River is nearby, as are the Teramachi and Shin-Kyogoku shopping centers. The market is one block north of Shijō Avenue, which runs parallel.

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Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

3 out of 5
491 Zaimokucho, Shimogyo, Kyoto, Kyoto
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
Hearton Hotel Kyoto

Hearton Hotel Kyoto

3 out of 5
Oike-agaru, Higashinotoin St. Nakagyo, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

4 out of 5
420 Sakuranocho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

3.5 out of 5
Shijo-Dori, Fuya, Nishihairu, Tachiuri, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

4 out of 5
140-2 Manjujicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
Cross Hotel Kyoto

Cross Hotel Kyoto

3.5 out of 5
71-1 Daikokucho, Kawaramachi-dori, Sanjo-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Hotel Granvia Kyoto

4.5 out of 5
JR Kyoto Station, Karasuma Chuo-guchi, Karasuma-dori, Shimogyo, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Granvia Kyoto
LOISIR HOTEL CLASSIC GARDEN KYOTO SANJO

LOISIR HOTEL CLASSIC GARDEN KYOTO SANJO

3 out of 5
80 Mikuracho, Kyoto, Kyoto
LOISIR HOTEL CLASSIC GARDEN KYOTO SANJO
Karasuma Kyoto Hotel

Karasuma Kyoto Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Karasuma Shijo, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Karasuma Kyoto Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Nishiki Market

Explore the vibrant Nishiki Market, a bustling day market perfect for shopping and sampling local delicacies. Enjoy a day trip filled with recreational opportunities, from trying unique foods to visiting touristy showcases. Don't miss the chance to unwind at a ninja experience cafe, where you can immerse yourself in the intriguing world of ninjas while indulging in delicious treats.

Shopping

Nishiki Market offers a vibrant shopping experience, with Pontocho Alley just 0.2 miles away for entertainment and dining. Kawaramachi Street, 1 mile away, features family-friendly shops. If you're up for a drive, visit the Nishijin Textile Center, located 2 miles away, for traditional textiles and souvenirs.

Recreation

At Funaoka Thermal Bath, indulge in traditional Japanese bathing for a rejuvenating experience, just 3 miles from Nishiki Market. For sports enthusiasts, Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium offers a vibrant atmosphere to catch exciting events. Enjoy live performances at Kyoto Concert Hall, which provides an entertaining cultural experience nearby.

Adventure

For an exhilarating experience, visit Biwako Valley Ski Resort, located 16 miles from Nishiki Market, where you can enjoy thrilling ski adventures. Alternatively, take the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, 9 miles away, for breathtaking views and an adventurous ride suitable for the whole family.

Nightlife

In Nishiki Market, the nightlife buzzes with options like Gion Corner, a charming theater showcasing traditional arts, and Kyoto MINAMIZA Theatre, known for its captivating performances, both within a short walk. For a unique twist, the Kyoto Municipal Science Center for Youth offers a fascinating planetarium experience, perfect for families.

Find the best attractions near Nishiki Market

When visiting Nishiki Market in Kyoto, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture by exploring nearby temples and shrines. This bustling marketplace offers a unique family experience, perfect for travelers seeking local flavors and traditions. Don't miss the chance to discover Miru Kyoto Nishiki and savor the diverse offerings at Nishiki Market, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the heart of Kyoto.

  • Kiyomizu Temple: Located about 1 mile from Nishiki Market, Kiyomizu Temple offers a serene escape with its stunning wooden stage and breathtaking views of the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site is rich in culture and history, making it a perfect spot for reflection and exploration.
  • Kyoto Tower: Just 1 mile away, Kyoto Tower stands as a symbol of modernity in the heart of the city. This iconic structure provides panoramic views of Kyoto, allowing visitors to appreciate the city's blend of tradition and contemporary life.
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Situated 3 miles from Nishiki Market, Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates. This cultural landmark offers a unique hiking experience through its scenic trails, deeply rooted in Shinto beliefs.

Best time to go to Nishiki Market

Visitor numbers around Nishiki Market is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Nishiki Market is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nishiki Market

To save money on your visit to Nishiki Market, plan your trip during the off-peak months of January, February, or September for lower hotel rates. Book your accommodations about a month in advance, and consider Tuesday stays for the best deals. Utilize Expedia’s search tool to compare room rates and find budget-friendly options, and look for last-minute deals. Combine hotel, flight, and activity bookings for additional savings, and join the One Key membership for exclusive discounts and rewards. Remember, entry to Nishiki Market is free, making it a great budget-friendly destination!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Nishiki Market are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Nishiki Market about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Nishiki Market is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Nishiki Market is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display hotels from the lowest to the highest price, ensuring you find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Nishiki Market with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.