Nishiki Food Market, Kyoto (must see)

The Nishiki Food Market, also dubbed Kyoto’s Kitchen, is a narrow covered marketplace that runs for five blocks parallel to the busy Shijo Street, east of Teramachi Street. Shops here sell all types of food: vegetables, rice, fresh and dried fish, boiled fish paste, meat, dried bean curd, pickles, fragrant spices and sweets, as well as fresh Kyoto delicacies.

The Nishiki market was established in 1310 as a large wholesale venue. Just like the rest of the city, it suffered greatly during the Ōnin Civil War in the 1500s. After the war, the shogun Toyotomi Hideyoshi reopened it again, this time as a retail market for food and groceries, which has since proven extremely popular.

Most vendors at Nishiki allow customers to sample their products before buying. Some specialty stores run small eateries serving the same specialty fare sold by the store. Most shops in the market are closed on Wednesdays, except the fishmongers. The latter have their day off on Sundays. Besides the fresh produce and seafood, there are stores selling knives, crockery and cookware. The Nishiki market is frequented by the locals looking for authentic stuff, much as by the guests of the city coming to enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese marketplace.

Why You Should Visit:
A little bit touristy, but still authentic; you can find any local delicacy here – pickled vegetables, eel, uni, sashimi, takoyaki, matcha ice cream, etc.
Good for tourists who want to see what a typical Japanese arcade shopping market looks like, although it's not the only one in the area.

Tip:
The market has a NO WALK AND EAT policy, meaning you can't buy food to eat while walking.
You can only eat standing in the front of the stall or take it away outside the market boundary.
If you see a line for something, make sure to stop and see what it is. Chances are it is something pretty good.
Beware of the higher prices on special items and gifts, though, as it is a popular tourist spot.

Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am-6pm (varies by store)
Some stores are closed Wednesday or Sunday