Nishiki Food Market: Gastronomic Tours & Experiences
4.9Located on the east end of Nishikikoji Street, Nishiki Food Market is often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” because of the many local dishes and fresh ingredients that are supplied by the market’s vendors.
Nishiki Food Market tours in Kyoto provide the ideal way for you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and familiarize yourself with one of the most iconic markets in Kyoto. Taste authentic cuisine and chat with local vendors as you take in the vibrant sights, smells and sounds.
Located on the east end of Nishikikoji Street, Nishiki Food Market is often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” because of the many local dishes and fresh ingredients that are supplied by the market’s vendors.
Nishiki Food Market tours in Kyoto provide the ideal way for you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and familiarize yourself with one of the most iconic markets in Kyoto. Taste authentic cuisine and chat with local vendors as you take in the vibrant sights, smells and sounds.
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Located on the east end of Nishikikoji Street, Nishiki Food Market is often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” because of the many local dishes and fresh ingredients that are supplied by the market’s vendors.
Nishiki Food Market tours in Kyoto provide the ideal way for you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and familiarize yourself with one of the most iconic markets in Kyoto. Taste authentic cuisine and chat with local vendors as you take in the vibrant sights, smells and sounds.
Here's all you need to know about Nishiki Food Market tours, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Kyoto.
What are the best Nishiki Food Market tours in Kyoto?
Nishiki Food Market cultural walking tour in Kyoto
Gain a fascinating introduction to Kyoto’s cuisine and the culinary scene when you join this guided walking tour that takes you to some of the city’s top-rated food spots, including Nishiki Food Market and the Gion District.
Begin your tour at the iconic Nishiki Food Market, which is over 400 years old and is home to over 100 vendors! Wander through the stalls and shops as you learn more about the market and the important role that it has played throughout Kyoto’s history.
Not only will you receive a tour of the market grounds, but you’ll also get to taste popular local dishes such as fried fish cakes, pickled vegetables, mochi, Japanese omelets and conger eel. After the market, you’ll get to visit a few other attractions, including a special nearby shrine.
Nishiki Food Market tour with cooking class in Kyoto
Let your local Japanese guide lead the way as you explore the iconic Nishiki Food Market in Kyoto with this private tour. Feel free to ask any questions that you may have about the market’s historical importance, traditions and typical foods.
Once you have explored the market and chatted with a few vendors, it is time for your cooking class! You’ll learn how to create your own donburi meal by using fresh ingredients bought in the market. There are many options to choose from, including vegetarian.
Gain a hands-on understanding of the Kyoto culinary scene, and enjoy a delicious meal that you’ve prepared yourself at the end of your experience.
Which places are visited?
When you book a Nishiki Food Market tour in Kyoto, you can expect to visit many of the stalls within the market complex. You’ll get to see and meet a variety of vendors, selling everything from fresh seafood to specialized chef’s knives.
Many tours also visit the nearby shrine, as well as a few other landmarks in the Gion District. Each tour is slightly different, so you check tour itineraries before finalizing your booking.
How much do Nishiki Food Market tours in Kyoto cost?
Basic Nishiki Food Tours in Kyoto typically cost around US$50 per person for a guided, small-group experience lasting roughly 2.5 hours. Slightly more comprehensive tours, which are longer and include more food tastings generally cost closer to US$100 per person.
Nishiki Food Market tours that include a cooking class at the end of the tour generally start at around US$200 per person and are private experiences in which you and your travel companions will be the only people on the tour.
What is included?
When you book a Nishiki Food Market tour in Kyoto, at least several food tastings are usually included in the cost of the tour. You’ll also receive fascinating commentary from a professional English-speaking tour guide.
A tour including a cooking class will include the cost of the ingredients for your meal as well as a taxi from the market to the studio.
Where does it start?
Most tour operators ask tour participants to meet at an easy-to-find landmark near Nishiki Food Market. A popular meeting point is in front of the main gate of Daimaru Kyoto, which is located in front of the Shijo Takakura bus stop.
Ensure that you arrive at the designated meeting point at least 5 minutes before the tour’s starting time so that you do not keep your guide waiting.
How long does it last?
The typical duration of a Nishiki Food Market tour in Kyoto is around 3 hours, giving you ample time to explore the market and savor its many delicacies.
When is the best time for a Nishiki Food Market tour in Kyoto?
Nishiki Food Market is open between 10 AM and 6 PM daily, although there are many vendors that open before 10 AM and close after 6 PM. While evening tours are popular, most tours begin at around 11 AM.
Book your Nishiki Food Market tour for the beginning of your stay in Kyoto as the tour acts as an excellent introduction to Japanese food and culture. What you learn during your tour may prove to be very useful during the rest of your stay in the city.
What other gastronomic experiences can you enjoy in Kyoto?
Travel tips
- Book your Nishiki Food Market tour in Kyoto ahead of time to secure your spot on the tour that best suits you.
- If you have any food allergies or dietary requirements, let the tour operator know ahead of time.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the large market complex.
- Avoid taking any heavy luggage with you. Instead, pack a small bag with just the essentials, including your wallet, rain jacket and a bottle of water.