Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Shopping
Kyoto has a fantastic variety of both traditional and modern
shops. Most of these are located in the Downtown area, making
the city a very convenient place to shop. Whether you're look-
ing for fans and kimono or the latest electronics and cameras,
Kyoto has plenty to offer.
Shopping in Kyoto
Kyoto has a long history as Japan's artistic and cultural workshop: it's the place where the
country's finest artisans used their skills to produce the goods used in tea ceremonies, calli-
graphy, flower arrangement and religious ceremonies, as well as in kimono fabrics and oth-
er textiles. Indeed, Kyoto is the best place to find traditional arts and crafts in all of Japan.
Of course, Kyoto has far more to offer than just traditional items. You will also find the
latest fashions in the Shijō-Kawaramachi shopping district, the latest electronics on
Teramachi-dōri and a wondrous assortment of food products in markets such as Nishiki.
And if you're lucky enough to be in town on the 21st or the 25th of the month, you should
make every effort to visit one of the city's excellent flea markets.
PLAN TO SHOP?
Many travellers plan their trips around the cherry blossoms or one of Kyoto's great festivals. Few, however, plan
their trips around Kyoto's brilliant markets. This is a shame because Kyoto's two monthly markets are among the
best flea markets in all of Asia. The dates to keep in mind are the 21st of the month for the Kōbō-san Market (
CLICK HERE
) at Tō-ji, and the 25th of the month for the Tenjin-san Market (
CLICK HERE
) at Kitano Tenman-gū.
Note that these are close enough together to hit on one slightly extended stay in Kyoto.
