Continuing our Kyoto food adventure — today we head to the market street that every food lover must visit, and discover one of Gion's best-kept culinary secrets.
Nishiki Market — Kyoto's Kitchen
Running through the heart of central Kyoto, Nishiki Market is one of Japan's most famous food streets. The pedestrian lane stretches several blocks and houses around 130 vendors and small restaurants, offering everything from fresh rice and tofu to hand-cut vegetables, local pickles, and wagashi sweets. Some of the larger stalls have attached restaurants where you can eat on the spot. If you're a food lover visiting Kyoto, this is non-negotiable.
Nishiki Market Official WebsiteBento from Hishiiwa
For a truly special lunch, we sought out Hishiiwa — a bento shop with a remarkable reputation. They supply bento boxes to the teahouses of Gion, Kyoto's historic geisha district, and the quality shows in every detail. Boxes range from 4,500 JPY (smaller) to 6,500 JPY (larger), and the Gion location requires a reservation. The staff advised us to eat within a few hours given the summer humidity — these are not packed for convenience, but for flavour. Every ingredient is prepared with the light seasonings and careful stock-making that defines Kyoto cuisine: letting the natural taste of each ingredient speak for itself.
Hishiiwa Official WebsiteWe hope this inspires you to slow down and eat well on your next visit to Kyoto.