A Muslim Traveller's Guide to Exploring Kyoto's Nishiki Market

Did you know that there's a place in Japan often called "Kyoto's Kitchen"? Just a short stroll, less than 500 meters, from Shijo Station in Kyoto, you'll find a market that's sure to make any food lover's eyes light up. Welcome to Nishiki Market!

Also read: Halal Food in Kyoto: 10 Places to Visit When You’re Hungry

This bustling arcade, stretching 400 meters, is packed with over a hundred stalls offering a wide array of products. You can discover traditional ingredients, cooking utensils, and most importantly: unique and innovative food creations. Its lively atmosphere and diverse food options make it a fascinating destination for Muslim travelers eager to explore the flavors of Japan. Here's what you need to know before you visit.

Best Time to Visit and Tips for Exploring

Image credit: gyro | Canva Pro

The stalls at Nishiki Market generally open around 10 AM, which is an ideal time to visit if you prefer to avoid the biggest crowds. Kitchens will be busy preparing dishes, and vendors will be actively showcasing their goods until about 6 PM, although some stay open as late as 10 PM. Exploring the market's lanes can be seen as an exciting culinary adventure. While maps and shop information are available on the Nishiki Market website, often the best experiences come from following your instincts and your nose. Who knows, you might stumble upon unexpected unique foods or goods.

Getting around the market is also quite easy. Located in the heart of Kyoto, Nishiki Market is within walking distance of many central accommodations. Alternatively, you can use buses that travel along Karasuma-dōri or Shijo-dōri. If you're coming from outside Kyoto, you can also take a train and get off at Shijo Station—it's just a 7-minute walk to the market.

For Muslim travelers, it's important to look for information regarding restaurants or stalls that offer halal or vegetarian options if you have any doubts about the ingredients of a product. Kindly asking vendors about the ingredients used in their cooking is also a wise step.

Treat Your Taste Buds to a Variety of Delights

Image credit: Kyoto Nishiki Market | Official Website

Nishiki Market is truly a paradise for food enthusiasts! This market is famous for its fresh seafood, delicious Japanese pickles (tsukemono), and traditional snacks that are even favorites among Kyoto's renowned chefs. Muslim travelers can enjoy a variety of choices, such as fresh fish dishes, savory beef or unagi (eel) skewers, and crispy vegetable or shrimp tempura.

Image credit: Kyoto Nishiki Market | Official Website

Indulge in a variety of delightful matcha-flavored sweets, dango, and mochi. To refresh yourself, you can find various drink options like fresh fruit juices or Japanese tea.

As an alternative, if you're looking for food outside the market, you can find several halal and Muslim-friendly restaurants not far away. Some of these include Nishiki Miyabi, a teppanyaki restaurant serving wagyu beef and located just 100 meters from the market, or Gyumon Kyoto, which combines tender wagyu beef with flavorful broth ramen. Meanwhile, if you prefer a certified halal restaurant, you can visit Halal Ramen Honolu, which is a 1-minute walk from the market.

An additional tip for Muslim travelers: it's best to enjoy the food you purchase in the designated eating areas and avoid eating while walking, as a sign of respect for local customs.

Hunt for Unique Souvenirs and Kyoto Keepsakes

Image credit: Kyoto Nishiki Market | Official Website

Beyond its tempting food, Nishiki Market is also a great place to look for unique Kyoto souvenirs. You can find various unique items such as beautifully carved chopsticks, artistically decorated teacups, and high-quality knives from legendary shops like Aritsugu, which has been in business since 1560. Looking for something with more of a Kyoto feel? You can explore shops offering handmade fans and beautiful ceramics.

Pay Attention to Payment Systems and Local Etiquette

Image credit: gyro | Canva Pro

While many vendors in Nishiki Market accept electronic payments, it's important to remember that Japan generally still prefers cash transactions. Make sure you bring enough yen to fully enjoy all the food and shopping that Kyoto's Kitchen has to offer. Additionally, bargaining is not common in this market; prices are usually fixed. Although some vendors might offer slight discounts to tourists, it's generally better to accept the listed prices.

Prayer Spaces Around Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market itself does not have a dedicated prayer space for Muslim travelers. Therefore, Muslim visitors who wish to pray can visit nearby mosques or prayer rooms. One option you can consider is As Salam Hall Mosque, which is situated 2 km from Nishiki Market and adjacent to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. You can also use the prayer room available at Mabrur Halal Dining restaurant, which is not far from Sanjo Station.

Also read: Muslim Women Can Now Wear The Kimono With Matching Hijabs in Kyoto

Time to Start Your Adventure!

Nishiki Market offers a chance to experience and witness firsthand Kyoto's rich culinary scene—both in terms of taste and history. Not only food, this constantly bustling market is also a perfect place to bring home a piece of Kyoto culture embodied in unique local crafts. Remember, there's no need to rush. Take your time to walk from one stall to another, sample various interesting dishes, and feel how the cheerful atmosphere of Nishiki Market makes your trip many times more enjoyable. So, prepare your stomach, bring your camera, and get ready to fall in love with this Kitchen of Kyoto!