Nishiki Market

4 years ago

0 ratings

Diverse-Market

From wooden casks of pickled veg to skewered squid, Nishiki market is a food-lover’s dream. A step back into a nostalgia-filled Japan, the bustling market stalls are a distant cry from the sleek high-end stores that line the nearby Shijo Street. Feeding locals and visitors alike for over 400 years, the market has over 100 stalls to choose from, offering snacks, seafood and great souvenirs all in one place. Focused on local, high-quality produce, the stalls are often family run, with many trading for generations. You can sample quality teas from nearby Uji, try tsukemono (pickled vegetables) from the prefecture or opt for a sweet treat like mochi or sesame balls. There are plenty of cafes to choose from if you need a break, including an official Snoopy cafe. For souvenirs, consider getting some nifty packs of furikake - seasoning you sprinkle on rice to fit into your no-doubt fast-filling suitcase. If you’re after non-food items, be sure to check out Aritsugu knives - they have been perfecting their art since 1560 and are currently run by the family’s 18th generation. The knives aren’t cheap, but they are some of the highest quality in the world, so you’ll have them for life. For something a little lighter on the wallet, you’ll find chopsticks galore with options for personalisation as well as small hashioki to rest them on. The market is also home to Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine and a wider network of shops and restaurants, so be sure you’ve set enough time aside to really explore, as well as grabbing lunch. Hours: Approximately 9am - 5pm, store dependent. [Images: 1. LCB, 2. LCB, 3. LCB]