Nishiki Market Shopping District, Kyoto

Wonderful food and vendors. I don't think it's possible to get tired of all the offerings within the market. Everything is fresh and there's at least one item for every craving of the human brain.

This is a place you cannot miss when in Kyoto. Make sure you visit with empty stomach early in morning and take your time to try as much, which most of food are tasty and fresh! It’s easily accessed by bus or station from anywhere. Remember to respect the local systems, queue and don’t rush. Stop at side not blocking people to finish your food before walking again. When taking photos be polite to others and don’t block the traffic flow. This is a crowded place anytime. My personal favorite is the prawn 🍤!

This is the go-to place if you want to walk around an authentic market. Small streets, tiny shops, and a lot to choose from for the narrow field of products they sell. I go at 7:30am to walk around and snack. Then find one of the many (30?) Little sushi shops to eat. Most of these places can hold 6-10 guests. You get great fish and a wonderful experience. Call me an alcoholic, but in the USA I eat sushi at night, so having Saki and beer for breakfast is somewhere between awesome and "when in Rome......" You can spend 15 minutes or 4 hours here. Just do it.

Nishiki market expands on a huge area in Kyoto. Very tourist oriented, for better and for worst. Many of the sales people talk English, so it is easier to understand what you see, but at the same time, too touristic. Sea food, herbs, dishes, Japanese food equipment, crazy vegetables and spices. You can also find high quality clothing, from top European & US brands, kimonos, t-shirts, accessories and much more. You can spend a whole day browsing, eating, buying and enjoying the atmosphere and vibe. Highly recommended

Ok have been here before but if you want to experience the markets at the height of madness go just before a Japanese holiday. Just spent 30 minutes in a crush worthy of Tokyo train at peak . Something to be experienced once, and only once