Dating back hundreds of years, Nishiki Market still remains a shining beacon of Kyoto’s past. It offers an insight into the city’s food culture, which has barely changed over the centuries. Known by many as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, visitors and locals alike swarm to Nishiki Market each day for food either produced or sourced locally.
Nishiki Market dates back to around 1310 when the first shop opened. Its initial role was that of fish market, and indeed, fish is still one of the key items available today. As time passed, other shops joined the market and the area moved from strictly wholesale business to regular retail transactions. Still a working market, local shoppers and travelers alike visit this cultural icon daily, looking for the best Kyoto foods.

Unlike some markets, many of the stalls in the Nishiki Market specialize in only one type of food or product. Locals may visit one shop for pickles while a nearby stall sells only the popular Japanese egg omelet. More recently, these shops have started selling ready-to-eat food, so you can try before you buy. Small cafes and restaurants have also opened, but primarily, Nishiki Market remains true to its origins as a place of commerce. Open all week, the market is the perfect place to taste the best of Kyoto’s food scene.

Opening Times
Opening times differ among shops, but generally, most open from 9:00 and close by 18:00.