Nishiki Market Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience Nishiki Market. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Kyoto 6-hour Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide

• Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Tour (7 Tastings + Brunch)

• Kyoto 4-hour Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide

• Private Kyoto Tour With Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 Persons)

• Kyoto Nishiki Market Food and Culture Walking Tour

There’s no cost to visit Nishiki Market, as it’s a public market. There are many guided tours available if you’d like to learn more about the market and its place in Kyoto’s culinary scene, which vary in price depending on length and inclusions. Expect to pay upwards of US$65 for a half-day guided walking tour of the market, often including samples and timed around mealtimes such as brunch or lunch.

Nishiki Market tours differ in their meeting and ending points. Some private tours include a hotel pickup—either on foot or using public transportation, depending on your accommodation’s location. On group tours, you may need to meet your guide and group at a designated place, such as an entrance to the market, or a nearby landmark or distinctive store. Check the tour instructions carefully. Tours typically end at the market, and you can make your own way to your next destination.

Yes, food and beverage samplings are often included in the price of Nishiki Market tours, but check the details of the tour you want to book. Tours focusing specifically on the market typically include samples, whereas more general Kyoto sightseeing tours that happen to pass the market may not. Some tours specify that you’ll receive a specific number of samples, while others state that you’ll eat enough samples to comprise a full meal, such as brunch or lunch.

Some tour operators can accommodate travelers with dietary restrictions on tours of Nishiki Market, but it’s important to contact them in advance to check, especially if you have a serious allergy. Tours may include plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, and some gluten-free foods are available, but some participants may need to skip certain tastings. Be aware that Japanese cuisine contains a lot of fish and seafood products.

Yes, photography is typically allowed during Nishiki Market tours. However, be mindful that it can be a very busy place, so don’t get in the way of other people navigating the market just to get a shot. Vendors will typically not mind you photographing their stalls, but be respectful of vendors and other visitors—always ask someone’s permission before featuring them prominently in your photos, and don’t photograph children.