Kyoto shopping is an experience that should not be missed by any traveler to the city. Known for its traditional culture and history, Kyoto also offers a wide variety of shopping options for visitors, from high-end luxury shopping to street markets and fairs. In this article, we will explore some of the best shopping destinations in Kyoto, including shopping malls and commercial centers, shopping districts or neighborhoods, luxury shopping, street markets, fairs, and exhibitions.
Shopping Malls and Commercial Centers
Kyoto Station Building
Located in the heart of the city, the Kyoto Station Building is a shopping and transportation hub that offers a wide variety of shopping options for visitors. The building includes a large department store, as well as various shops and restaurants. To reach the Kyoto Station Building, simply take the train or subway to Kyoto Station. Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the building and its many shops.
Kyoto Terrsa
Located in the Umeda area of Kyoto, Kyoto Terrsa is a large shopping mall that offers a wide variety of shops and restaurants. The mall features many popular fashion brands, as well as a variety of electronics and home goods stores. To reach Kyoto Terrsa, take the subway to Umeda Station and exit at the north exit. Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the mall and its many shops.
Shopping Districts or Neighborhoods
Shijo-dori
Shijo-dori is a popular shopping street in central Kyoto that is known for its traditional atmosphere and wide variety of shops. Visitors can find everything from traditional Japanese goods to modern fashion and accessories on this street. To reach Shijo-dori, take the subway to Gion-Shijo Station and exit at the A1 exit. Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the street and its many shops.
Kawaramachi-dori
Kawaramachi-dori is another popular shopping street in Kyoto that offers a wide variety of shops and restaurants. The street is known for its modern atmosphere and is a popular destination for fashion shopping. To reach Kawaramachi-dori, take the subway to Kawaramachi Station and exit at the A1 exit. Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the street and its many shops.
Luxury Shopping
Kyoto Takashimaya
Kyoto Takashimaya is a luxury department store located in the heart of the city. The store offers a wide variety of high-end fashion, accessories, and home goods. To reach Kyoto Takashimaya, take the subway to Kyoto Station and exit at the A1 exit. Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the store and its many luxury brands.
Kyoto Mitsukoshi
Kyoto Mitsukoshi is another luxury department store located in the city. The store offers a wide variety of high-end fashion, accessories, and home goods. To reach Kyoto Mitsukoshi, take the subway to Shijo Station and exit at the A1 exit. Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the store and its many luxury brands.
Street Markets, Fairs, and Exhibitions
Kamo-Sakura Festival
The Kamo-Sakura Festival is a popular annual event that takes place in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. During the festival, visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese street performances, as well as browse and purchase a variety of street market goods, including traditional Japanese crafts and souvenirs. The festival typically takes place in late March or early April and can be reached by taking the subway to Gion-Shijo Station and walking to the Higashiyama area. Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours enjoying the festival’s many offerings.
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Market
The Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Market is a monthly event that takes place at the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in southern Kyoto. The market features a wide variety of vendors selling traditional Japanese goods, including food, crafts, and souvenirs. Visitors can reach the market by taking the train to Inari Station and walking to the shrine. The market typically takes place on the 25th of each month and visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours browsing the market’s offerings.
Conclusion
Kyoto offers a wide variety of shopping options for visitors, from high-end luxury shopping to street markets and fairs. Whether you’re looking for traditional Japanese goods or modern fashion and accessories, there is something for everyone in Kyoto. So next time you visit, be sure to set aside some time to explore the city’s many shopping destinations and experience the unique culture and history of Kyoto.
