4-Hour Walking Tour:

Nishiki Market and a Temple Experience

Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s vibrant culinary culture and spiritual heritage with this 4-hour walking tour.

The journey begins at Shijo Station and ends at the serene Kennin-ji Temple, offering a blend of bustling market energy and tranquil temple calm.

Hour 1: Nishiki Market Exploration (1 Hour)

1. Start at Nishiki Market’s Main Entrance:
   Begin your adventure at the entrance of Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s “Kitchen,” a 400-year-old shopping street filled with over 100 shops and stalls.

2. Sample Local Delicacies:

   • Taste freshly grilled yakitori (chicken skewers).

   • Enjoy a stick of matcha dango (sweet rice dumplings) or other seasonal treats.

   • Discover Kyoto’s seafood specialties, such as sashimi or grilled fish.

   • Visit a pickled vegetable shop to experience the tangy flavors of tsukemono, a Kyoto staple.

3. Shop for Souvenirs:
   Browse for unique items like handcrafted chopsticks, knives, or artisanal Japanese sweets to take home.

Hour 2: Tea and Rest (30 Minutes)

1. Break at a Traditional Tea Shop:
   Pause at a tea café within Nishiki Market for a relaxing cup of matcha or hojicha (roasted green tea). Pair it with a sweet treat like mochi or wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets).

Hour 3: Walk to Kennin-ji Temple (30 Minutes)

1. Scenic Walk to Kennin-ji:
   Stroll along the charming Pontocho Alley or the streets of Gion, enjoying the historic atmosphere as you make your way to Kennin-ji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple.

Hour 4: Kennin-ji Temple Visit (1 Hour)

1. Explore Kennin-ji Temple:

   • Admire the Dharma Hall and its iconic ceiling painting, the Twin Dragons, symbolizing protection.

   • Stroll through the peaceful Zen garden, taking in its minimalist design and calming ambiance.

   • Learn about the temple’s history and its connection to Japanese Zen Buddhism.

2. Meditation or Quiet Reflection:
   Spend a few moments meditating or quietly reflecting in the temple's serene setting before concluding your tour.

The tour ends at Kennin-ji Temple, from which you can easily access Gion-Shijo Station or continue exploring the Gion district.

Tips for Your Tour:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobbled streets.

• Bring cash for market purchases, as many vendors don’t accept cards.

• Arrive at Nishiki Market early to avoid large crowds.

This tour offers a delightful mix of Kyoto’s culinary, cultural, and spiritual highlights, making it perfect for first-time visitors and food enthusiasts.