Kyoto Shopping

If wandering around tiny craft shops is your idea of heaven, head for the intersection of Kawaramachi-dori and Shijo-dori. You can browse through lacquerware, tea ceremony items, and fans.

Japanese department stores sell reasonably priced craft goods and typically have their own kimono departments. Isetan department store in Kyoto station is a great place to start.

Flea markets are very popular in Kyoto. The top spot for bagging bargains is at Toji Temple, which hosts a lively market on the 21st of each month.

Wagashi (Japanese candy) is as beautifully presented as any Kyoto cuisine. There are shops scattered throughout Kyoto, but at Toraya there is a tearoom 65-feet away where you can taste before you buy.

The road approaching Kiyomizu Temple is full of quality pottery shops. None, however, matches the selection at the two-story Kyoto Ceramics Center, walking distance from the temple.

Antique-lovers will be satisfied with what Kyoto’s Shinmonzen-dori neighborhood has to offer. Specialty shops each tend to have their own focus, allowing visitors to browse extensive selections of items like tea sets, dolls, or Buddhist art.