Japan has always fascinated me, especially after hearing so much about the breathtaking cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring. Even though cherry blossom season (March to April) was long gone, I still had a deep desire to explore the country’s rich history, unique culture, and, of course, its high-tech convenience stores everyone raved about.
When we finally planned our trip from New Delhi to Japan, Kyoto was a must-visit. And let me tell you, the city didn’t disappoint.
Kyoto is a perfect place to see modern shopping avenues along with centuries-old traditions. Despite being a city shaped by war and natural disasters, it has preserved its historical charm.
Walking through Kyoto feels like stepping back in time, with temples, shrines, folklore tales, and wooden townhouses on every corner. But the city also offers a fascinating glimpse into the future, with its cutting-edge technology, trendy shopping centres, and innovative architecture.
Shopping in Kyoto: Where Tradition Meets Trend
What surprised me the most during my time in Kyoto was the incredible shopping scene. Whether you're a fan of luxury or local crafts, or just want a quick souvenir, the city has it all. Here's where we shopped and what made each spot unique:
Porta Underground Shopping Mall
Directly accessible from Kyoto Station, Porta is an underground shopping paradise. Imagine walking through wide corridors filled with over a hundred shops, ranging from trendy fashion to traditional Japanese handicrafts.
Whether you’re hunting for some local ceramics or grabbing a quick bite between train rides, Porta offers the best of both worlds. The vibe here is energetic, and it’s the perfect place to browse for unique gifts or stylish accessories before hopping onto the next train.
2. Omiyage Kaido (Souvenir Road) at JR Kyoto Station
If you’re in a hurry and still need to grab some local souvenirs, this is the place to go. Located inside Kyoto Station, Omiyage Kaido is a treasure trove of Kyoto’s best traditional crafts and snacks.
From Kiyomizu pottery to Yatsuhashi (delicious sweet rice cakes), you’ll find beautifully packaged gifts that are perfect to take back home. It was so convenient to pick up a few last-minute souvenirs before we left the city.
3. Daimaru Kyoto
Located near the historic Gion district, Daimaru Kyoto is a blend of modern luxury and traditional charm. This department store has it all—from high-end fashion to traditional Kyoto crafts like Kyo-yaki ceramics and Nishijin textiles.
I particularly loved the beauty section, where I found an impressive selection of both international and Japanese cosmetic brands. And don’t miss out on the basement food floor—it's heaven for anyone who loves sweets, bento boxes, and premium Japanese delicacies. I could’ve spent hours just exploring the different flavours and packaging.
4. Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden
Right in the bustling Kawaramachi district, this shopping centre had a calming, garden-themed interior. It was such a nice change of pace after exploring Kyoto’s busy streets. The blend of greenery, water features, and open spaces created a relaxed shopping experience.
Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden had a little bit of everything, from trendy fashion boutiques to lifestyle shops. And if you’re into dining, the range of casual and sophisticated options catered to every taste. We ended up grabbing lunch at a cosy Japanese café, which was the perfect way to recharge.
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Our Kyoto Itinerary: Exploring the Best of the City
Here’s how we spent our time in Kyoto, exploring everything from ancient temples to modern streets:
Day 1: Arrival & Gion District
We arrived from New Delhi to Osaka Itami Airport and took the train to Kyoto. After checking into Kyoto Granbell Hotel, which is a beautiful mix of traditional Japanese design and modern comfort, we took a short walk to the famous Gion District.
The streets here were lined with traditional teahouses, and we were lucky enough to spot a few geishas on their way to evening engagements. We ended the night with a hearty meal at a local restaurant, soaking in the atmosphere of this culturally rich area.
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Day 2: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera Temple
We started the next day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, the iconic Shinto shrine with its endless rows of red torii gates. From the Granbell Hotel, we took a taxi that took less than 10 minutes. The least expensive option available to you is taking the train. The hike through the gates was serene, offering stunning views as we made our way up the hill.
Later, we visited Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Kiyomizu-dera, commonly referred to as the Pure Water Temple, is among Japan’s most renowned temples and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Situated atop a hill in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, it offers stunning views and a deep connection to the city’s cultural heritage.
The way to the temple is lined up with a variety of restaurants and shops. You can find a lot of souvenirs ranging from traditional to some quirky choices. There are also plenty of places to eat, whether you’re craving a simple bowl of soba or udon or looking for a bigger meal. After visiting the temple, it’s just a short walk to Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, two charming old streets filled with even more shops and cafes.
One of my favourite spots at Kiyomizu-Dera is the Otowa Waterfall. The water flows into three separate streams, and visitors can use cups to drink from them.
Each stream is said to offer something different—success, love, or longevity. But there’s a catch! You’re only supposed to pick one, as drinking from all three is seen as greedy. It felt special choosing just one and embracing the belief behind it—it added a special experience to the whole vacation.
Day 3: Exploring Kyoto’s Shopping Avenues
This was our shopping day, and we explored the underground malls and department stores Kyoto is famous for. At Porta Underground Mall, we shopped for souvenirs and trendy Japanese fashion.
Daimaru Kyoto was our next stop, where we found a wide array of traditional crafts and indulged in some of the best sweets I’ve ever had. To end the day, we strolled through Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden, a contemporary mall with a relaxing atmosphere and garden-like interior.
Day 4: Yasaka Shrine & Maruyama Park
We took a leisurely walk to Yasaka Shrine, a spiritual spot known for its large festivals. It is an 8-10 minute walk from the Granbell Hotel. Afterwards, we headed to Maruyama Park, a peaceful escape right in the heart of Kyoto. Though it wasn’t cherry blossom season, the park still had its own charm with its tranquil paths and small ponds.
Day 5: Kyoto’s Modern Side
On our last day, we decided to explore Kyoto’s more modern attractions. We visited Kyoto Aquarium, which was a fun, family-friendly spot. Kyoto Aquarium, which opened on March 14, 2012, is unique as it’s Japan’s first inland aquarium to fully use artificial seawater. It's a fascinating place to visit, especially if you're into marine life. The aquarium is located about 30 minutes by bus from the Kyoto Granbell Hotel, making it a convenient and fun day trip while staying in the heart of the city. I especially loved the jellyfish area.
We also spent some time at Kyoto Tower to get a bird's-eye view of the city before heading back to the hotel.
Conclusion
Kyoto is a city that offers so much more than just temples and history. Its shopping avenues, like Porta and Daimaru, blend modernity with traditional Japanese craftsmanship, making it a dream destination for any traveler. Whether you're shopping for high-end fashion, local souvenirs, or just indulging in some great food, Kyoto has something for everyone. Our trip was a perfect mix of culture, shopping, and relaxation, and I can’t wait to visit again—hopefully during cherry blossom season next time!
Start planning your unforgettable trip to Kyoto today! Whether you're captivated by its historic temples, stunning autumn foliage, or modern shopping centers, Kyoto has something for every traveler. Ready to explore? Let our guide help you make the most of your Kyoto vacation!
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