Khu Downtown Kyoto

Kyoto city center is a square area, bordered to the east by the Kamo-gawa River, to the west by Karasuma-dori, to the north by Oike-dori, and to the south by Shijo-dori. Due to its small size, it is beneficial for exploring on foot. And, with so many covered domes, it's one of the best places to spend a rainy day in the city. In the Central Kyoto area, you can explore the following places:

Nishiki Market Known locally as “Kyoto pantry”, Nishiki Market is Kyoto's largest traditional food market. While modern grocers and souvenir shops are starting to move in, there are still enough traditional shops that you can see what a traditional shotengai (shopping street) looks like. You'll find all the main ingredients of traditional Kyoto cuisine on display here: tsukemono (Japanese pickles), fresh tofu, Kyo-yasai (Kyoto vegetables), wagashi (Japanese sweets), tea , fresh fish and other types of crabs, oysters and seafood. There are also a number of shops selling takeaway food such as yakitori skewers or sashimi, and a number of sit-down restaurants among the shops.   

Daimaru Supermarket – Food Basement The Daimaru Department Store's food basement is said to be the best food market in the entire city   

Takashimaya Supermarket - Food Basement Takashimaya Food Floor Basement is one of the most impressive food markets you can find anywhere

Pontocho Alley, which runs parallel to the west bank of the Kamo-gawa River between Sanjo and Shijo, is considered by many Kyoto residents and visitors to be the most beautiful street in the city. It is surrounded by traditional shops and restaurants and does not allow cars, modern buildings or flashy signs. During the day it's not much to see but in the evening Pontocho becomes a magical place. Many restaurants and clubs here prohibit foreign visitors if it is inappropriate, but there are a few places that welcome foreigners and have English menus and English-speaking staff.

The alley is lined with restaurants on both sides, offering a variety of dining options from casual to upscale, from traditional and modern Kyoto cuisine to foreign cuisine and exclusive establishments that demand the best of both worlds. private member lawsuit. The opening hours and closing days for restaurants, bars and shops along Pontocho vary by facility, but most locations are generally open between 17:00 and 23:00. Some are also open for lunch. More and more establishments offer English menus. Most of the restaurants along the east side of the alley overlook the Kamogawa River. From May to September, many of them build decks that jut out over the river, where patrons can dine al fresco. Called kawayuka, this type of eating was developed as a way to cool down in the summer heat and is a great way to try some traditional Kyoto dishes while enjoying the cooling effects of the flowing water. and lively summer atmosphere. Reservations for kawayuka are recommended, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.

Kyoto International Manga Museum Kyoto International Manga Museum is the best manga museum in Japan. If you are a fan of Japanese manga, don't miss it!

Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Shopping District These two covered shopping streets are the most popular shopping streets in Kyoto and they are often crammed with children on school excursions