From traditional fare to contemporary variations, eat your way through the former capital of Japan and discover a wonderfully diverse food scene
Travellers, initially drawn to Kyoto for its breathtaking landscapes and historical temples, often find themselves pleasantly surprised by the city's culinary diversity. Here, ancient traditions merge with modern variations, resulting in a unique food scene.
From a bustling food market and traditional eateries to dessert cafes and creative cocktail bars, Kyoto has something to satisfy all palates. Read on to immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich culinary narrative, and discover the city one bite, and one sip, at a time.
See also: A food lover’s guide to Sapporo, Japan
Check out a bustling marketplace in downtown Kyoto
No culinary exploration of Kyoto would be complete without venturing into the vibrant aisles of Nishiki Market which dates back to the early 14th century. The bustling market stretches over five blocks and is home to over one hundred stalls that offer an array of local delights. Be sure to sample the fresh sashimi, pickled vegetables, and grilled seafood. There are also Kyoto specialities like yuba (tofu skin), tsukemono (Japanese pickles) and much more to try.
Nishiki Market, Nishikikoji-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan