Shijo-dori, named after the ancient capital's fourth east-west avenue when Kyoto was known as Heian-Kyo, stretches from Yasaka Shrine in the east to Matsuno Shrine in the west, making it a central transportation hub. Because of its convenient location and proximity to tourist attractions, it's always busy with locals and visitors alike, making it a spot you won't want to miss.

Located at the Kawaramachi Station intersection, Kyoto Takashimaya is the area's most iconic upscale department store. Its interior design seamlessly blends Kyoto's cultural essence with luxury vibes.

After extensive renovation, the department store reopened on October 17, 2023, and is now branded as Kyoto Takashimaya S.C. The newly added T8 building houses 51 stores, including the much-talked-about Nintendo KYOTO, the first Nintendo flagship store in Kyoto. The basement floor (B1) is particularly popular among tourists for its gourmet food court, souvenir shops, and fresh market.

Whether you're craving delicious bites or searching for souvenirs, Kyoto Takashimaya S.C. has you covered. It's a great spot for Kyoto-themed gifts!

Inside Kyoto Takashimaya S.C., besides Nintendo KYOTO, you'll find the well-known Tsutaya Bookstore, called the "Most Beautiful Bookstore"!

Located on the 5th and 6th floors of the T8 building of Kyoto Takashimaya S.C., the bookstore has over 60,000 art-related books, displays of local Kyoto crafts and stationery, and exclusive souvenirs. With nine gallery spaces inside the store, various exhibitions featuring sculptures, contemporary art, illustrations, ceramics, and more are held periodically.

If you're a fan of Japan's high-quality, artsy atmosphere, we recommend popping into Takashimaya and checking out Tsutaya Bookstore. Plus, for international visitors, there's a tax-free service available for purchases over 5,000 yen.

Established in 1998, Kawaramachi OPA is a well-known shopping mall catering primarily to Japan's younger generation. It hosts numerous brands that are particularly popular among young Japanese women.

In March 2023, the third-floor women's fashion section underwent a renovation, introducing spacious full-body mirrors and eight new stores. Currently, it features Japanese fashion brands like KBF, Samantha Thavasa, JEANASiS, and EMODA.

Additionally, it houses 300-yen shops like 3COINS+plus and Lattice, which are popular with overseas tourists, making it a must-visit for budget-conscious shoppers.

KIDDY LAND is a comprehensive store specializing in popular Japanese character- and anime-related products. The Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi store is the second-largest branch in the Kansai region.

On the first floor, you'll find Kyoto souvenirs alongside merchandise from Disney, Sanrio, and Pokémon. The second floor features Rilakkuma & Friends, Snoopy, and more, while the third floor offers items from Miffy, Gudetama, and One Piece, among others. It's a one-stop shop for all your favorite characters, including many items available exclusively at the Kyoto store.

Fans of all ages will have a blast exploring KIDDY LAND. If you're looking for adorable souvenirs or gifts, this is the place to be!

Built in 1926 as the Kyoto Central Telephone Office, this architectural gem was transformed into a modern commercial facility known as “ShinPuhKan” by renowned British architect Richard Rogers in 2001.

In 2016, it temporarily closed due to local development, only to be rebuilt by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma in 2020. The opening of the facility was further enlivened by the inauguration of Asia’s first branch of the renowned American hotel chain Ace Hotel.

Inside, you’ll find a cinema and various upscale dining options. The focus is on high-quality brands, with tenants such as BEAMS JAPAN, TRAVELER’S FACTORY KYOTO, and MAISON KITSUNÉ KYOTO ShinPuhKan.

The interior design and lush greenery reflect Kyoto’s style, creating a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere. Even if you’re strolling, though, it’s a delightful experience.

When it comes to Japanese watches, Seiko is a household name, attracting many tourists who specifically visit Seiko's flagship stores during their trip to Japan.

This boutique is the only one of its kind in Kyoto. It features a stylish, elegant interior with private rooms to accommodate VIPs. Here, you can shop Seiko's proud collection of watches, including the limited edition "Elegance Collection" series exclusive to only four Seiko Boutiques in Japan.

Conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Hankyu Railway's Karasuma Station, it's easily accessible, and the staff are equally friendly and welcoming. Don't miss the opportunity to buy luxury timepieces!

Located in the heart of Kyoto, Kawaramachi-dori Shopping Street is perhaps the liveliest commercial district in the city. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle, you can also find traces of Kyoto's history dating back 300 years in this area. Kawaramachi-dori Shopping Street extends northward from the intersection with Shijo-dori.

Kyoto BAL is a luxurious boutique department store in Kawaramachi, home to over 30 high-quality brands from Japan and abroad. While the mall may not be huge, both its exterior and interior exude elegance and sophistication, adding a touch of Western charm to Kyoto's traditional Japanese atmosphere, and creating a refined ambiance for shoppers.

On the 5th floor, you'll find MUJI and the French tea brand Mariage Frères is on the 1st floor. Particularly noteworthy is the collaboration between Starbucks on the 3rd floor and the creative platform "SANDWICH" by contemporary Kyoto artists, where the café merges with an art space, showcasing various art pieces. It's one of Japan's most unique Starbucks locations, and a must-visit for Starbucks enthusiasts.

Across the street from Kyoto Takashimaya, Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden is another iconic shopping mall. Formerly known as Kyoto Marui Department Store, it ceased operations in May 2020 and was subsequently rebranded as Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden.

The 7th and 8th floors are dedicated to dining with renowned eateries such as Hokkaido-style Omelette Rice Hokkyokusei and all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu and sukiyaki at Shabu-Shabu Tajima-ya Shijo Kawaramachi, among others.

Floors 1 through 6 primarily house the large-scale electronics retailer EDION, providing a variety of household appliances. As BicCamera, a popular destination for tourists, closed all its stores in Kyoto in May 2023, if you're looking to purchase electronics, we recommend visiting EDION.

And don't forget to grab the coupons linked at the end of this article for some extra savings!

Highly popular among overseas tourists, Don Quijote is a must-visit shopping destination in Kyoto! What sets the Don Quijote store in Kawaramachi apart from others is its unique appearance, which blends seamlessly with the streets of Kyoto with its wooden lattice-style facade. Inside, the elevators, decor, and posters exude a traditional Japanese atmosphere while maintaining Don Quijote's trademark relaxed vibe.

The store, which spans five floors from B1 to 4F, offers a wide variety of products. On B1, you'll find tourist-popular items like condiments, snacks, alcohol, and pharmaceuticals. Beauty and skincare products are on the second floor, while home appliances are on the third floor.

Don Quijote is definitely the place to go if you want to save time shopping or grab some souvenirs for family and friends. Plus, coupons are available at the end of this article for extra savings, so be sure not to miss out!

This second-hand boutique primarily operates in the Kanto and Kansai regions, offering a wide variety of goods, including kimonos, stamps, ancient coins, luxury brand items, watches, antiques, cameras, musical instruments, electronics, and more.

All items undergo evaluation by experienced appraisers and certified assessors to ensure their value. They deal with renowned brands such as LOUIS VUITTON, HERMES, CHANEL, and Dior.

Additionally, tax-free services are available. Located just a 3-minute walk from Hankyu Railway's Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, it's a recommended spot for those interested in browsing for vintage treasures!

DECOUVERTE KYOTO is operated by the BAYCREW'S group, which primarily deals in fashion and lifestyle goods. They specialize in selling vintage women's accessories such as jewelry, handbags, and scarves with a mature style.

This antiques boutique features luxury brands like LOUIS VUITTON, GUCCI, CHANEL, and HERMES, among others. It offers a collection of rare vintage pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind. The store curates items not only from Japan but also from other corners of the world.

Besides offering tax-free shopping, they also have an online store for customers outside Japan. Located just a 1-minute walk from Hankyu Railway's Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, the boutique's exterior exudes a charming vintage vibe. If you're strolling around Kawaramachi, be sure to stop by and discover some treasures!

In the world of pop culture, including anime, games, and mascot characters, Japan takes great pride in its unique cultural exports, garnering a large fanbase worldwide.

In Kyoto's Kawaramachi area, aside from numerous official character stores, there's also Guf, offering a wide range of merchandise. You'll find T-shirts, hoodies, masks, and more adorned with various designs, as well as collaborations with popular franchises like One Piece, Godzilla, Dragon Ball, and others. The store also boasts a rich collection of figurines and capsule toys.

Compared to Osaka, this type of specialty store is relatively rare in Kyoto, making Guf an excellent destination for fans of Japanese anime and pop culture to pick up unique souvenirs!

Founded in Kyoto, Ichizawa Shinzaburo Hanpu is a century-old handmade canvas bag brand. The brand remains true to its founding principles, using simple cotton and hemp canvas hand-dyed by artisans. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the bags bear a rustic charm and are exceptionally durable, earning them the reputation of being the "LV of the canvas bag world."

With Ichizawa Shinzaburo having its flagship store in Kyoto, it's a perfect destination for those looking to purchase a quality bag as a souvenir or for anyone who appreciates canvas bags. Don't miss the rare opportunity to visit while you're in Kyoto!

Teramachi-dori and Shinkyogoku Shopping Street cover the entire area between Sanjo-dori and Shijo-dori in the heart of Kyoto. Heading west, you'll find Shinkyogoku, while heading east leads you to Teramachi-dori.

These two shopping arcades run parallel to each other, offering a wide range of traditional and modern shopping, from trendy boutiques to art galleries, shoe stores, bookshops, specialty stores, and souvenir shops selling products from quirky to delicious items.

Established in 1872, Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcade is known for selling souvenirs, shoes, umbrellas, T-shirts, yukata (casual summer kimono), sweets, character goods, and other items.

Teramachi-dori is also known as "Temple Town" due to its concentration of stores selling religious items. This historical association dates back to the 16th century when Toyotomi Hideyoshi consolidated and controlled temples in the city. Today, the street still bears traces of Kyoto's past as an ancient capital, and while exploring the unique products offered by these shops, it's worth noting that Teramachi-dori also hosts many thrift stores.

Kyoto's renowned Nishiki Market is located just a block north of Shijo Street. This 390-meter-long street has been selling seasonal produce, sweets, and traditional delicacies known as "obanzai" since the 8th century.

At Nishiki Market, you can sample various Kyoto foods, such as "kyo-zuke," pickles made from locally sourced Kyoto vegetables. These pair wonderfully with sake and make excellent souvenirs to bring back home. Many shops in the market offer tasting samples, so you can try them before you buy.

Kyoto's tea culture dates back 800 years, when nobles and aristocrats showed a fondness for tea from Uji, an area near Kyoto, and many ancient tea gardens trace their origins to that era. Among the tea varieties produced in Kyoto, matcha is the most famous. You'll find numerous shops in Nishiki Market selling Kyoto tea products. Take your time to explore and sample different teas to find your favorite.

Kyoto Station is central hub for both the Shinkansen and local trains in Kyoto. It's also a vibrant area filled with department stores and electronics shops. Most restaurants also have branches here, making it a lifesaver for last-minute shoppers. Additionally, it's a popular spot for grabbing snacks and desserts as people rush to catch their trains.

Inside Kyoto Station, there are numerous shops and eateries to explore. If you're short on time, head to the Omiyage Kaido ("Souvenir Avenue") at the Central Exit!

Here, you'll find several specialty souvenir shops offering traditional Japanese sweets and snacks steeped in history and culture. You can buy items like Nishio Yatsuhashi, sweets from the renowned Uji matcha store Tsujiri (pictured top, center above), Kyoto Raijin chocolate, and the famous Kyoto Baamu tree-ring cake (top left).

Without the need to wander around, you can purchase Kyoto specialties that will leave a lasting impression on your visit to Kyoto. Plus, they offer tax-free shopping and accept credit card payments. Click on the link below for further recommendations!

Porta is an underground shopping mall located within the B2 South and the West and East sections of Kyoto Station. In the East section, you can find exclusive souvenirs unique to Kyoto, such as traditional Japanese sweets like yatsuhashi. Highly recommended are the Kyoto Kitayama MALEBRANCHE "Tea Sweets" biscuits made with concentrated tea, along with tea leaves, pickles, and products from respected Kyoto establishments.

The West and South sections house various Japanese brand stores such as MUJI, MOUSSY, SLY, and JILL by JILLSTUART, among others. There are also stores like the 3COINS 100 yen store and the Kokumin drugstore. Even better, many of these stores offer duty-free shopping, making it a fantastic place to shop and explore.

If you get tired, head to Porta Dining on the 1st floor of the East and West sections to grab a meal and take a break. Additionally, Omiyage Kaidoi is located within the first-floor area of Porta, so you can conveniently browse while you're there.

KYOTO TOWER SANDO, located from the B1 to 2F floors of Kyoto Tower, just a 4-minute walk from Kyoto Station, is a rare modern architectural landmark in Kyoto, featuring an observation deck, hotel, shops, and restaurants all in one place.

This shopping mall and food arcade underwent a renovation and reopened in April 2023. On the 1st floor, you can find familiar stores such as Starbucks, Tsujiri, and Matsumoto Kiyoshi pharmacy, along with sweets like Kyoto's famous Malebranche Tea Sweets, Shogoin yatsuhashi, and adorable SUGiTORA tiger-shaped cookies, making it an ideal place to shop for Kyoto souvenirs.

The 2nd floor offers Japanese cultural experiences, such as kimono rentals at Wargo, sushi-making classes at Daiki Suisan, and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) making classes at Shichijo Kanshundo.

The restaurant arcade on B1 offers a variety of dining options, including conveyor belt sushi, Korean cuisine, pancake cafes, ramen shops, and izakayas, ensuring you won't go hungry while exploring.

You can also enjoy shopping at Kyoto's AEON Mall. This massive complex consists of two buildings: the larger SAKURA building and the relatively smaller Kaede building. In November 2023, the mall underwent renovations and welcomed new stores.

In the SAKURA building, you'll find Kohyo supermarket and Dacs pharmacy on the first floor, as well as a pop-up store for IKEA furniture on the second floor. Additionally, Japanese brands like Muji and various Taiwanese food specialties are available at the Taiwan Matsuri STORE.

You'll discover the revamped Toys "R" Us store on the first floor in the Kaede building. Walkways connect the second and third floors, making it convenient to explore. If you're feeling hungry, head up to the fourth floor for a meal. It's a perfect place to spend a whole day, especially if you have kids with you!

The streets leading to the uber-famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple are lined with traditional restaurants and shops. Among them are longstanding members like Koya, in operation since 1705, renowned for its various incense products, and Matsuya-do, known for its rich history and offerings of incense-related items. Another notable spot is Yojiya, which has gained prominence through the production of oil blotting paper called "abura-torigami" and is celebrated for its cosmetics across the country.

Kyoto Kitayama MALEBRANCHE is home to one of Kyoto's must-buy souvenirs. It is known for its delicious confections made from carefully selected first-harvest tea leaves from tea gardens in places like Uji. Their "Koicha" pastry biscuits, elegantly packaged and featuring rich flavors, are particularly beloved by tourists.

Located on the approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the MALEBRANCHE Kiyomizuzaka Store is housed in a traditional, narrow Kyoto-style townhouse. Despite its traditional exterior, the interior and signage are very stylish, and the store even features a serene garden with a reflecting pool.

At the Kiyomizuzaka Store, you can not only purchase their signature "tea confection" but also exclusive sets like the "Kiyomizuzaka Store Limited 5-piece set" featuring illustrations of the Kiyomizu stage and the three-story pagoda. Additionally, they offer treats like the "Matcha confection lava chocolate cake" and the "Smooth ancient sugar (chocolate)," which resemble the grid-style streets of central Kyoto. These delicacies are delicious and perfect for personal enjoyment or gifting. Plus, they provide tax-free shopping!

Yatsuhashi, a curved biscuit, is a quintessential Kyoto delicacy. Established in 1689 and boasting over 300 years of history, the main store of Nishio Yatsuhashi, nestled in the heart of Kiyomizu-zaka, is a must-visit destination. The store offers a wide array of flavors, including cinnamon, matcha, and black sesame, all displayed beautifully. Almost every visitor to Kiyomizu-Dera Temple stops here to purchase these famous treats.

Aside from the classic Yatsuhashi, the store also offers a chewy, mochi-like version known as "Nama Yatsuhashi." These triangular-shaped treats come with various fillings like matcha, black sesame, white sesame, banana-chocolate, and banana-strawberry, totaling over ten flavors. From March to April, the Kiyomizu-zaka branch offers a limited edition "Sakura-flavored Nama Yatsuhashi," capturing the essence of spring with its matcha and cherry blossom flavors.

Yojiya, established in Kyoto in 1904, is known for its line of skincare products. The signature item, introduced in 1921, is the "Aburatorigami" oil blotting paper, known for its oil-absorbing qualities without disturbing makeup. Affordable and effective, it's a staple in Yojiya's offerings.

They also offer hand creams, bath products, perfumes, and more, all bearing the brand's distinctive logo, which has become synonymous with Kyoto. Yojiya products are highly sought-after in both Japan and abroad. Conveniently located near Kiyomizu Temple, the Kiyomizu Sannenzaka branch is the perfect spot to explore Kyoto's local skincare products while visiting the temple.

The Arashiyama district's shopping street is a must-visit for tourists and a treasure trove of souvenirs. Surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Togetsukyo Bridge, enchanting bamboo groves, and charming temples and shrines, it attracts droves of visitors every year. Strolling along the lively street, you can browse shops selling cute accessories and candies. Don't forget to pick up some snacks and treats to enjoy along the way!

At Kyoto Yoshitoyo Arashiyama Store, you'll find a chain of souvenir shops featuring a variety of premium Japanese-style goods, folk crafts, and cosmetics. They offer items like metal-framed purses, handkerchiefs, traditional patterned drawstring pouches, hair accessories, and more. Their high-quality cosmetics, including lipstick, perfume, and nail polish, are particularly popular.

Their original Kyoto cosmetics brand, COTONOCA, features cute packaging with a traditional Japanese touch, making it eye-catching. The products are made with local ingredients such as Kyoto silk and Uji tea extract, making them ideal for gifting and personal use. If you're looking for distinctively symbolic souvenirs while exploring the Arashiyama area, be sure to stop here!

Chirimen crafts, originating from the Edo period, are traditional hand-woven textiles made from a fabric known as chirimen silk, characterized by its tiny wrinkles. This store, located opposite the World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple, boasts a traditional Japanese-style façade that perfectly complements the scenic beauty of Arashiyama.

Inside, you'll find a wide array of chirimen crafts, with the most recommended being the chirimen ornaments. These ornaments are adorable and lightweight and make for unique souvenirs that don't take up much space in your luggage. Customers love picking up seasonal-themed ornaments to take a piece of Kyoto home with them.

The store also sells sushi-shaped chirimen crafts. You can purchase individual pieces like salmon, tuna, or tamago (egg) sushi or opt for assorted sets. Chirimen coin purses adorned with traditional Japanese patterns or geisha designs are also popular choices, perfect for bringing some festive cheer.

Oimatsu Arashiyama is a refined traditional Japanese confectionery shop established in 1908. It offers a wide variety of treats, such as yokan, kuzuko, senbei, and traditional Japanese sweet buns. Its most renowned delicacy is the "Natsu-mikan Jelly," made from summer tangerines and agar, resembling oranges. It's available only from April 1st until the end of the summer tangerine season and is a must-try for wagashi enthusiasts.

The "Saga Ten Views," exclusively sold at the Arashiyama store and online, is also highly recommended. These are small sweets made from wasanbon sugar, cinnamon, and matcha, shaped using wooden molds depicting scenic spots of Saga-Arashiyama, like Tenryuji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Nison-in Temple, Rakushisha, and the bamboo groves. Each bite evokes memories of the Arashiyama landscape and your journey. Additionally, the shop has a tea room where you can relax and indulge in their signature bracken rice cakes. So take your time and unwind!

"% Arabica Kyoto" is a well-known chain of coffee shops in Kyoto. Enjoying a latte while gazing at Arashiyama's picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge is a must-do experience and makes for great photos!

In addition to classic coffee options like latte and matcha latte, the menu includes Kyoto Latte with condensed milk and refreshing lemon water. Even better, they offer freshly roasted coffee beans that you can purchase by weight.

They have various merchandise featuring their signature "%" logo, including travel mugs, Thermoses, and umbrellas, perfect for those who appreciate trendy aesthetics.

We've compiled discount coupons for shopping in Kyoto, from Don Quijote, electronics stores, and drugstores, to AEON, and more. These are must-visit spots, so be sure to grab these coupons before going on a shopping spree and make the most of your purchases!

You can find Don Quijote stores in the AVANTI shopping center near Kawaramachi and Kyoto Station. Before checking out, just click on the image above to claim the coupon. When you make a purchase of at least 10,000 yen (excluding tax), you'll enjoy a 10% tax exemption plus an additional 5% discount. It's like getting a 5% discount on already tax-free items - super cost-effective, so grab your coupon now!

When shopping at Edion, simply show this discount coupon on your mobile phone during checkout. You'll enjoy a 10% tax exemption plus an additional 7% to 5% discount, depending on the type of products you purchase. For electronics, you get a 7% discount, and for food and pharmaceuticals, it's 5%. The more you buy, the more you save!

(This offer is only valid for foreign tourists entering Japan with a tourist visa.)

At the Tsuruha Drug Yasaka Shrine Store near Kawaramachi, you can get some great deals on cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. At Tsuruha Drugstore in Japan, simply present this QR code screen and your passport at checkout to enjoy tax exemption. Plus, for purchases ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 yen, you'll receive a 3% discount; for purchases from 30,000 to 50,000 yen, you'll get a 5% discount; and for purchases over 50,000 yen, you'll enjoy a 7% discount (excluding some items). The more you spend, the more you save!

With this special discount coupon, international travelers can enjoy exclusive benefits! You have two options: present the QR code at the service center to choose between an instant 500 yen discount or redeem it for a gift. However, please note that each coupon can only be used once per person per day, and your purchase must exceed 5,500 yen (including tax). Be sure to check the details at the service center of each stor.!

Exploring the shopping scene in Kyoto is a step into a world where tradition meets modernity. From long-established department stores to iconic decades-old shops, Kyoto offers a plethora of choices that are both beautiful and distinctive. Each store is a treasure trove of unique finds, making it hard to resist the temptation to visit them all!

Before embarking on your shopping spree, don't forget to bookmark this article. It'll serve as your handy guide, ensuring that you won't miss out on any must-visit spots and allowing you to take advantage of exclusive discounts along the way!

(*Please note that the information provided in this article is accurate as of December 2023. For the latest updates, be sure to check the official websites of the respective stores.)