Nishiki Market and Kyoto Flea Market

After our long walk, Wendy and I joined the group for a visit to Nishiki Market. It is where locals and visitors go to shop in Kyoto. Everything can be found in this covered market that extends for blocks — from upscale knives of all sizes and shapes, to baby gifts, to tea and many expressions of traditional Japanese food. There were stations for fermented foods, dry fish, chestnuts, fans, plastic food (which is widely seen throughout Japan and used to advertise the wares of local restaurants), and a myriad of tea shops.

Twice a month there is a flea market across town and we were excited to visit this all day market where there were old kimonos and prints alongside exotic street food, art, ceramics and hand-crafted wooden items. Throughout Kyoto are Buddhist Temples and Shinto Shrines and this flea market offered no exception. A ceremony was taking place during this open market and of course I was drawn to listen and watch.