It was a very long and busy day walking around Kyoto but visions of Nishiki market were dancing in my head. Nishiki market is one of those can't miss places if you are spending any notable amount of time in Kyoto. The sites, sounds and aromas of the place are beyond tantalizing even if you are not foodie. I am clearly not a foodie myself but I love this 5 block long shopping street full of small food shops none the less.

Nishiki Ichiba has an long history which adds to the appeal at least for me. The market can trace its roots back to the year 1310! Coming from a city founded in the late 1800's that is really impressive for me. Nishiki market has a really interesting mix of both locals and tourists all sharing the joy of its culinary delights. This place is known as Kyoto's Kitchen for a reason.

Nishiki Market

I went extra hungry which was great because there are many free samples to try things out (though I am a picky eater so I passed on several that others would surely enjoy). I walked from one end to the other to scope things out and then walked back again sampling and buying.

There are some stores selling medicine or clothing but most places sell food ranging from produce to pickled goods or fish and meat. You can also find a couple of places to order prepared meals or drinks as well.

The street can get very crowded around the most popular vendors so it can take time to wander around. Taking photo's slowed my personal progress a lot as well so it was nearly closing time before I finished looking at everything. I decided to just bring things back to my hotel room to enjoy. I did not have a microwave or anything so I just bought things I could eat fresh without preparation.