7 Days Kansai Itinerary

7 Days Kansai Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

by | posted in: Japan, Kansai Japan, Travel Itinerary | 0

Last updated on December 22nd, 2024

Planning on 7 days Kansai itinerary to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Uji? Discover the things to do, what to eat and where to stay when you have 1 week in Kansai.

We visited the best places in Kansai and enjoy it. There are many things to do and eat in the Kansai region. For first time visitors, we understand that you wish to eat the best food, visit the top attraction within your travel time. That’s what makes planning your Kansai itinerary so important.

Kansai 7 Days Itinerary: Things To Know Before You Go

If you’re drafting up your Kansai trip to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Uji in 5 days, 7 days, or 10 days. There are a few things and useful Kansai travel guide that you need to keep in mind before your trip.

Similar to other Japan prefectures, Kansai has 4 beautiful seasons and each of them has its perks. Depend on your travel plan, Kansai is an all-year-round travel destination.

Spring brings blossoming flowers and Kyoto is one of the best places for cherry blossoms in Japan. Summer brings a bright sunny day with the firework festival celebration. But the weather will be very hot and humid. Autumn for fall foliage where the leaves changing to red color. Lastly, winter for its unique calm with attractions in snowy white.

Depending on what is your interests. You may prefer to visit Kansai in a different season. Next, read on our Japan Kansai travel blog with travel tips below.

What is the Best Time To Visit Kansai Region?

I had visited Kansai three times at different seasons. Each time I am still amazed by its beauty. However, I can’t deny that the best time to visit Kansai in the cherry blossom season. The city is covered in a pink umbrella with sakura in every corner. You will understand why Japan’s national flower is sakura.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Kansai Region?

In our opinion, 7 days is the best duration to explore and experience the beauty and culture in the Kansai region. You can easily plan for 5 days, 7 days, or even 10 days in Kansai for your vacation. Bear in mind, there is always no enough to experience everything in Japan.

Where Should I go when visiting Kansai Region?

There are many beautiful places and must-visit attractions that you can plan on your Kansai itinerary. The most visited cities in Kansai are Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Uji, and Kobe.

How To Getting Around in Kansai Region?

The best way to getting around in the Kansai region is by public transport. Transportation systems within cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, and Uji are well connected by public transport. Most important, Japan does offer various transportation passes to foreign visitors. It greatly helps to save on your transportation fee.

Travel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Kansai check prices for Kansai Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.

Kansai Transport Guide

Depending on your preference. You can choose to travel around in Kansai by speed train, local train, or even buses. Sometimes, there are too many options of transportation available. In our opinion, the best transportation option depends on where you depart and your next travel destination.

Check out our post on how to getting around in Kansai by public transport.

If you are traveling to Kansai from Tokyo, make sure to get the Japan Rail Pass. This pass will greatly save on your transportation fee especially with the Shinkansen ride.

My 7 Days Kansai Itinerary

Not sure where to start your 7 days Kansai itinerary? This is one of the most memorable trips we did during our travels in Kansai during the cherry blossom season. Most of the places can be visited all year round. Besides, we add on few places for sakura viewing.

We will introduce the best places to visit in the 7-Day Kansai itinerary. Not to forget all the must-try food on your foodie hunt for the best food and restaurant.

Read on the list of the places we visited, what we did, and where we stayed during our 7-Day to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Uji.

Day 1: Arrive Kansai and Headed To Kyoto. Half-Day on Sakura Viewing in Kyoto

ICOCA & HARUKA
ICOCA & HARUKA

Firstly, we arrived at Kansai International Airport (KIX). For visitors who arrived by flight, it is best to pick up your travel essentials at the airport.

There are a few things that you can be done in one place once arrive at Kansai International Airport::

  • Wifi Connection: Booked and picked up the unlimited Wifi router or 4G Sim Card. It is important to stay connect to the internet during your travel period to check on transportation, location, and travel information.
  • Transportation to Kyoto or Osaka: Haruka Limited Express is the fastest and most convenient transport to get to Kyoto from Kansai Airport. You can get Discounted Haruka Limited Express from Klook.
  • ICOCA Card: Very helpful and saves a lot of time when traveling to Japan using public transportation. Preloaded with JPY1,500 and easily reloaded. Highly recommended ICOCA IC Card.
  • Osaka Amazing Pass: Get ready for 1-Day or 2-Days Osaka Amazing Pass that covered free entry up to 30 must-visit places in Osaka.

Once everything ready, we were ready and headed to our first destination to Kyoto.

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Things To Do during Cherry Blossom in Kyoto: Philosopher’s Walk, Nanzenji, Keage incline

Kyoto is a amazing city to visit in Kansai. The must visit attraction in Kyoto including World Historical Site, historical temple and shrine and natural hidden gem. There’s no better place for Japan culture experience but Kyoto. This is a great place to spend at least 2 to 3 days in Kyoto. 

Philosopher’s Path Best place for sakura Viewing in Kyoto itinerary

We arrived in Kyoto at afternoon and done checked in to hotel. There is still half-day for us to wander around. During our trip in early April, sakura was in full bloom. So we decided to spend our first day and focusing on cherry blossom itinerary in Kyoto.

We headed to the best sakura viewing spot in Kyoto. Firstly, Philosopher’s Walk (哲学の道) which famous with cherry tree lined along the canal. Spend the amazing stroll under the sakura canopy densely lined along the pedestrian street. From Philosopher’s Walk, we took a slow walk toward to Keage incline. Together with Nanzenji, it is the famous sakura viewing walking itinerary. One of the memorable journey during my 7-Day Kansai itinerary.

Lastly, we back to Kyoto Station and dinner at Kyoto Ramen Koji (Street). It is home to eight famous ramen in Japan. Have a hot bowl of Japanese ramen to start your Kyoto food tour.

Where To Eat: Masutani ramen in Kyoto Ramen Koji for traditional Kyoto ramen. Added, have some Japanese snacks in the Kyoto Station.

Day 2: Southern Higashiyama District in Kyoto

Kiyomizudera Kyoto

We spent the day 2 on the southern Higashiyama district in Kyoto. To get there from Kyoto station, we bought the one day Kyoto bus pass with unlimited bus ride in Kyoto. The bus is worth it if you planning for more than two bus ride in one day.

Spend your morning to admire the Kiyomizudera, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the world. The most famous part on Kiyomizudera is the Main Hall was built in 139 pillars without using one of the single nail.

From Kiyomizudera, take a stroll to ninenzaka and sannenzaka slope. Various souvenirs, snacks, cafes, and restaurants can be found in this busy shopping street. Continue your walking itinerary to downtown Kawaramachi or Gion area. Spend your afternoon wandering around in this area.

Nishin Soba from Matsuba

Looking for what to eat in Kyoto? One of Kyoto’s specialty cuisine is Nishin soba. It is a local herring fish soba noodle dish with flavored soy sauce broth. The Matsuba Soba is the oldest and most famous Nishin soba restaurant in Kyoto. Else, most of the Kyoto restaurant served this Kyoto local dishes. Next, sample some snack food in the Nishiki market (錦市場).

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

In the evening, we headed to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine for their famous Torri gate. We took the bus back to Kyoto station and then take the JR train to Inari. Enjoy the walk under thousand of eye-catching torii with amazing views along the trail.

READ MORE: Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine: A Complete Travel Guide

What to eat in downtown or Gion Kyoto: Nishin soba in Kyoto. The Matsuba Soba is the inventor of this must-eat in Kyoto. It is famous for its handmade soba noodles among locals and visitors.

Day 3: Arashiyama District and Kinkajuji in Western Kyoto

Sagano Scenic Railway

One of the must visit in Kyoto is Arashiyama. Instead of directly headed to Arashiyama by train, we choose to take the Sagano Scenic Railway train from Kameoka to Saga torokko station. The train ride on took about 30 minutes, riding along the Hozugawa River.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

From there, we visited the world-famous Arashiyama bamboo grove, pray at Nonomiya Shrine and enjoy our leisure walk at the Arashiyama shopping street and Togetsu-kyo Bridge. 

Thanks to the clean and quality water. Arashiyama is famous for its tofu dishes. We try the tofu dishes in Tofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu. It is a cabin kiosk at the main street of Arashiyama, selling various kinds of tofu dishes. Price is ranging from 300 to 1000 yen depend on what you eat. The best budget place to eat the yodofu in Arashiyama.

Kinkakuji with reflection

We proceed our 7-Days Kansai itinerary from Arashiyama to Kinkajuji. Firstly, we took the JR train from JR Saga-Arashiyama station to Emmachi station. Next, we transferred to a bus ride (#205) to Kinkakuji.

Kinkakuji is a golden shiny temple, perfectly situated aside the Japanese garden. The reflection of this golden pavilion is one of the most picturesque and stunning views in Kyoto.

Flaming Kyoto fire ramen

Last but not least, we ended our day 3 in Kyoto with flaming Kyoto fire ramen in Menbakaichibai. It is an extraordinary culinary experience where your bowl of flaming ramen is burnt right in front of you. A must try food in Kyoto.

Day 4: Day Trip To Nara

Feed The Deer In Nara Park
Feed The Deer In Nara Park

Nara is located between Kyoto and Osaka. It is best to visit Nara with one day trip from either of the cities. We choose to departed from Kintetsu Kyoto Station and arriving at Kintetsu Nara Station. Compare with JR Nara station, this station is closer to most of the attractions in Nara.

The 1-Day Nara itinerary can be done on foot. We welcomed by free-roaming deer in Nara Park. Enjoy your animal encounter by feeding deer with rice cracker, called Shika Sembei from the licensed street vendors.

Todaiji Temple (東大寺)
Todaiji Temple (東大寺)

There are many UNESCO Historic Monuments in Nara. We recommended visited one or two historical attraction among them. We visited the Kasuga Grand Shrine (Kasuga-Taisha) and Todaiji Temple.

The Todaiji Temple is one of the must-visit attractions in Nara. It is house of the Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statue and the world’s largest wooden structure.

What to eat in Nara: Kamameshi (釜飯), literally “kettle rice” is one of the popular local cuisine in Nara. Shizuka Kouen-ten served the best Kamameshi in Nara.

Day 5: Half Day to Uji. From Kyoto To Osaka

Boat Ride along the Uji River

Uji is part of our 7 days Kansai itinerary. We spend half-day in Uji before heading to Osaka. We did not plan on any must-do list in Uji.

In the morning, we took the JR train to Uji. We spend our time wandering around the Byondo Street and walked along the Uji River. It is a great place to see the rural side of southern Kyoto Prefecture with locality surrounded.

In the late afternoon, we back to Kyoto and proceed with our 7-Day Kansai itinerary to Osaka.

Green Tea Ice cream served in Nakamura Tokichi Honten

What to eat in Uji: Uji is famous for its top-notch quality of green tea. We ate the famous green tea dessert in Nakamura Tokichi Honten. It is so delicious and rich in green tea fragrance. Matcha lover don’t miss it!

Day 6 and Day 7: Osaka

When you arrive in Osaka, you will know that it’s time to experience the modern life in Japan. Osaka is a lovely city to wandering around. There are many things to do in Osaka for 1 day or 2 days.

For first time visitors to Osaka and plan to visit many attractions, we recommended you to get the Osaka Amazing Pass. This pass is offering free entry to up to 30 must-visit attractions in Osaka. It also offered discounted to certain shops and restaurants in Osaka.

The Osaka Amazing Pass is easily redeemed in Kansai International Airport or Namba Station. We fully utilize this Osaka Amazing Pass during our 2 days in Osaka. This pass also includes unlimited ride on all the subway within Osaka. We have documented our Osaka travel post in Things To Do With Osaka Amazing Pass for 1 day or 2 days.

Below are the top three must visit places in Osaka that you hardly can miss when visiting.

Osaka Castle (Osakajo)

How to get to Osaka from Kansai Airport

One of the must-visit in Osaka. Osaka Castle is the most recognized landmark of Osaka. This historical castle was build since the 16th century.

The castle has been destroyed in the past. But it was rebuilt to its original and reconstructed to new glamour. You can go to the highest 8th floor to view on the moat from the top. Alternatively, take the education visit on the exhibition on the castle.

Shinsekai And Tsutenkaku Tower

Tsutenkaku Tower
Tsutenkaku Tower

Shinseikai is one of the old neighborhood in Osaka. This place was once the entertainment district in Edo period. But it was neglected and abandoned for the past. Now Shinseikai is famous for nostalgic and vintage things in Osaka. People came to visit Shinseikai for its uniqueness in old Japan time.

You can opted to Tsutenkaku Tower for the top view on Shinseikai from above. Alternative, heading to one of the restaurants for the famous Kushikatsu. It is one of Osaka specialties with deep-fried skewers of seafood, meats, and vegetables.

Umeda Sky Building

Umeda Sky Building
Umeda Sky Building

An engineering marvel which consists of two tower with “Floating Garden Observatory” on the 39th floor. Unlike the traditional best viewing point in the city. You are heading to the highest flower by high-speed escalator connected between two towers. The best place for night view in Osaka.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Activities

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan was an amazing experience and would recommend this to anyone who loves sea creatures. It is amazing to see the sea life inside the aquarium and many exhibits from sea lions and seals, to dolphins, saltwater and freshwater fish, otters, crabs, jellyfish, and two magnificent whale sharks.

Travel Tips: Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world’s largest aquariums, with over 600 species of animals and witness aquatic animals of the Pacific Rim in the recreation of their habitats. Skip the ticket queue with Klook voucher!

More Times in Kansai Itinerary

As we only have limited time during our Kansai itinerary, there are also some other attractions and activities that you can include on your trip based on your interest. Here is some recommendation:

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) – Experience the thrill of the world at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. It is Japan’s best theme park for four years in a row! Must-visit the Harry Potter world and the Mario Adventureland. Check for more detail!

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) with 1, 1.5 and 2-day Studio Pass

Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance with Klook to avoid long queues on the day.

Where To Stay: Best Places and Hotels

We understand the pain on keep changing on accommodation during travel. As you can see from our 7 days Kansai itinerary. We try to minimize our stay even we visited many unique places in Kansai. That is to say, we only stay in two places for 7 days in Kansai. So, this is very important to decide on where to stay in Kyoto and Osaka.

Where to Stay in Kyoto: The Best Hotels and Areas To Stay

Where to stay in Osaka: Namba or Umeda?

There are lots of accommodation in Osaka with all type of price range. For sure that is one that suits your budget and requirement. However, we highly recommended that you stay in the Namba area. It is conveniently located nearby most of the attractions with transportation accessible. The best place to stay in Osaka for getting around.

  • Umeda, Osaka’s commercial district and the largest transportation hub in the city. A great option for those with JR Pass. (Hotel Monterey Le Frere Osaka)
  • Namba and its surrounding areas such as Dotonbori, Nippombashi, and Shinsaibashi. Best place to enjoy Osaka’s vibe. (Cross Hotel Osaka)

What To Eat: Kyoto and Osaka Food Guide

Top 2 Okonomiyaki in Osaka: Fukutaro (福太郎)

There are many local specialties and must try when planning on 7 days Kansai itinerary. Osaka is the place where the takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and Kushikatsu was the origin. Don’t miss the chance to taste it at a famous restaurant in Osaka.

Read on our food hunting tour in Osaka and Kyoto. 

Kyoto Food Blog:

Osaka Food Blog:

A Perfect Guide For 7 Days Kansai Itinerary: Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Uji

7 Days Kansai Itinerary

Hopefully my 7 days Kansai itinerary can give you some inspiration when planning on your trip to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Uji. There are more places to visit in the Kansai region such as Kobe, Himeji, and Wakayama. Unfortunately, we did not have much time for this trip. But for sure, we will come back here. Added, you can even extend your trip to Aichi Prefecture if you have 10 days or 14 days for your Kansai trip. For first-time visitors, we recommended you focus on Kyoto and Osaka.

Here are the summary of My 7 Days Kansai Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive Kansai and heading to Kyoto. Half-day on sakura viewing in Kyoto
  • Day 2: Southern Higashiyama District in Kyoto (Kiyomizudera, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine)
  • Day 3: Arashiyama (Sagano Scenic Train, bamboo grove, Nonomiya Shrine) and Kinkajuji
  • Day 4: Day trip to Nara
  • Day 5: Half day to Uji. From Kyoto to Osaka
  • Day 6 and Day 7: Osaka (Osaka Castle, Shinsekai And Tsutenkaku Tower, Umeda Sky Building, and more).
  • Lastly, Goodbye to Kansai.

Japan is truly an addicted country and for sure you will come back for the second or third time. Please plan the Kansai itinerary and explore the uniqueness of leisure. Spend time to eat and try Japan’s best food. Your memory of Kansai will last forever.

Lastly, enjoy your trip to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Uji! Our Complete Japan Kansai Travel Guide can be found here.

Osaka itinerary: Things To Do With Osaka Amazing Pass for 1 day or 2 days

Kyoto itinerary: 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto

Best Day trip from Kyoto or Osaka

What to eat in Kuromon Ichiba Market Osaka

What to Eat in Kuromon Ichiba Market: Top 10 Must-Try Food

by | posted in: Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on December 22nd, 2024

Kuromon Ichiba Market is the best place in Osaka where you can have a variety of food in one place. Read on our food hunting journey for the best food in the market if you are looking for what to eat in the Kuromon market.

Kuromon Ichiba Market (黒門市場) is a traditional covered public marketplace with thousand of stalls lined in the Sakaisujidori Street, Osaka. It offers a variety of food on the busy street and has been established 190 years ago. Known as “the kitchen of Osaka”, Kuromon Market has an extensive selection of food to experience the Japanese market culture.

No doubt, Kuromon Market is a great place to start your food hunting journey in Osaka. Here, you can sample as much as possible of Japanese street food in the market. For example, takoyaki, grilled scallop, seafood, sushi, sashimi, and more. Enjoy your stroll and stopped for good food when walking through.

There is so much to eat and try in the Kuromon Ichiba Market. You might be confused about what to eat in Kurumon Market, especially for first-time visitors. No worry. We will share with you what is the Top 10 Must Eat Food in Kuromon Ichiba Market.

How To Get To Kuromon Market

Kuromon Ichiba Market
Kuromon Ichiba Market

To get to Kuromon Market, the nearest station is Nipponbashi station on the Sennichi subway line. Just walked out from exit (#10), Kuromon Market is located just beside the station.

Kuromon Ichiba Market

  • Address: 2 Chome-4-1 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan
  • Operating hour: Daily from 9:00 to 18:00

What To Eat in Kuromon Ichiba Market Osaka

Kuromon Market Street View

The food trip to Osaka would not be complete if you have not visited Kuromo Ichiba Market. I visited Osaka three times in the past few years. And Kuromon Market is always one of the must-visit places on my itinerary list when planning to eat in Osaka.

The fun part of the Kuromon market was exploring the various foods along the street. Most of the stores offer tables and counters for guests to immediately enjoy their food. However, take note you are not allowed to bring other food to their table.

There are many delicious foods to eat at Kuromon Ichiba Market, and below are our top 10 favorite and must-eat food when visiting here.

  • Fresh oyster straight out from the shell.
  • Creamy sea urchin (Uni)
  • Grill scallop or scallop on a stick
  • Fatty tuni (Toro)
  • Octopus with Quail Egg
  • Fugu or blowfish
  • Unagi
  • Huge Crab Leg
  • Soy products like tofu, ice cream, soy milk, soy doughnuts, and a lot more
  • Sushi platter
What should I eat in Kuromon Ichiban Market?

The best thing to do in Kuromon Market is to try a wide variety of foods! There are many choices, ranging from seafood bowls and sushi. Try as much as you can.

How do I get from Osaka to Kuromon market?

Kuromon Ichiba is a 3-minute walk from Nippombashi Subway Station. Just walked out from exit (#10), Kuromon Market is located just beside the station.

What is the best time to visit the Kuromon market?

It is best to visit the Kuromon market in the morning. It can be very crowded at noon. Try to come here earlier before lunchtime to avoid the crowd.

1. Fresh Oyster

Enjoy fresh seafood at Kuromon Ichiba market
Enjoy fresh seafood at Kuromon Ichiba market

For sure you want to try the fresh seafood in the market. There are many stalls selling sea urchins (uni) along the street. I especially love one of the seafood stalls located in the middle. Wide variety of seafood such as oysters, scallops, and sea urchins. Different grades of the oysters for you to try on.

The seller will clean your oyster with a lemon slide ready for you. Enjoy it once straight out from the shell.

2. Sea urchin (Uni)

Uni from Kuromon Ichiba Market

At the same stall, don’t forget to try the raw sea urchin or uni. It has live sea urchins and different grades of uni to try on. You can handpick your uni and the seller will open it in front of you.

Look at my uni. It was so creamy and delicious. Well, the price might not be cheap but good value for the quality of the seafood.

3. Grilled Scallop

Grill Scallop in Kuromon Market

If you prefer cooked seafood, you can try on the grilled scallop. The size of the scallop is two or three times bigger than the normal scallop. The owner grilled the scallops with butter which give an even better aroma. It was fun to watch the owner grill the scallop once you order.

Grill Big Scallop in Kuromon Market

See our grilled big scallop from the store. It was cut into small pieces when grilled but you can imagine how big it was. The meat was firm and well seasoned with butter and soy sauce. It tastes so delicious and flavorful. This grill scallop cost about 800 yen. Consider quite expensive for this seafood treat.

Snack food in Kuromon market, Scallop on stick

Alternatively, try the scallop on a stick. We can’t resist and get this snack after trying on the fabulous grill scallop. I don’t remember the price. It should be around 1000 yen for three scallops in one stick.

4. Fatty Tuna, Toro

Fatty Tuna from Kuromon Market

One of the popular and must eat in Kuromon Market is fatty tuna, toro. There is one particular store on the corner of the market street that you hardly can miss. This store only sells one thing, which is high-quality tuna. You can choose to takeaway for their taro sushi or sashimi. But there was also bar counter seating for about 4 people at the corner.

We bought the toro sashimi and taste it at the store. The tuna just melted in your mouth. And it tastes so good. The price was not cheap but it is worth it.

5. Octopus with Quail Egg

Octopus with quail eggs in Kuromon Market

Next, try the octopus on a stick. It is not the ordinary octopus that you had. The whole quail egg is stuffed in the baby octopus’s head. It was a unique Japanese street food that can be found in Kuromon Ichiba Market.

We bought one to try on. While the taste was not too overpowering and the octopus itself is chewy. An interesting snack.

6. Fugu Fish

Taste on blowfish in Kuromon market Osaka
Taste on fugu or blowfish in Kuromon Market Osaka

Fugu or blowfish is one popular and must-eat in Osaka. It can be poison if not handled properly. The chef needs to be well trained to get the license to process the fugu fish.

Several stalls are certified to prepare and sell Fugu fish in the Kuromon market. Fugu is an expensive food to try on even in the Kuromon Market. The price is not cheap to try on this unique food in Japan. But for sure, it was much cheaper than a restaurant in Dotonbori.

7. Unagi

Kuromon Market Food Unagi

One of my favorite foods in Kuromon Market is Unagi. The barbecued freshwater eel that’s been basted with a savory-sweet kabayaki sauce. It is often served in unadon, or as bite-sized pieces of nigiri sushi, skewered on sticks, or served directly without rice.

I got the Kuromon version of unagi. The charred texture of the eel is incredible!

8. Huge Crab Leg

Ready to cooked Hokkaido crab leg pack in Kuromon Market

We also choose one of the shops to taste the Hokkaido crab leg. This shop has a seating area with tables and chairs to eat inside the shop. You can just choose the seafood pack and ask them to heat the food you buy from them.

Hokkaido crab leg in Kumoron market

Although I am not planning to try on the frozen crab leg from Hokkaido. It was not so fresh compared with other live seafood. But it was hard to resist when you saw the huge crab leg. We bought one pack of crab legs as part of our seafood feast in the Kuromon market.

9. Soy Product

Soy Product in Kuromon Ichiban Market

There was also a stall selling soy products like tofu, ice cream, soy milk, soy doughnuts, and a lot more. The price was relatively cheap at about 100 yen for one piece. The lady boss will toss it into the fryer and immediately cook it for you. Alternatively, you can get soy milk at 200 yen.

10. Sushi Platter

Sushi in Kuromon Ichiban Market

There are many sushi stalls in Kuromon Ichiban Market with a wide variety of sashimi, and seafood platters for you to try on. Most of them will offer a seating area indoor for you to try on their food. While the most popular store is Kuromon Sanpei, the biggest fish market in Kuromon. You can pick your seafood platter and eat inside.

Sushi Platter

While most of the food we ate so far is mostly snack food. We then stopped by one of the stalls selling sushi platters. We bought one platter with a variety of sushi in one box. It was so fresh and delicious.

Best Place To Eat in Osaka: Kuromon Ichiba Market

Best places for food in Osaka is Kuromon Market
Best place for food in Osaka, Kuromon Market

There are so much many things to eat in Osaka and Kuromon Market is a must-visit for the best Japanese street food. We enjoyed our visit to Kuromon Market and sampling the different local delights like sushi, uni, snow crabs, grilled scallops, and more. There were so many different food stalls awaiting you to try on. However, eating in the Kuromon market is not cheap, especially for seafood lovers. The price of the food can be ranging from as cheap as a few hundred to a few thousand yen depending on what you choose. So be prepared.

While Osaka is full of tourists, that is not surprising that the Kuromon Market is also full of tourists enjoying their Japan market food tour. Try to come here earlier before lunchtime to avoid the crowd.

Last but not least, this Osaka food blog is part of my Kansai travel itinerary to Osaka, Kyoto, Uji, and Nara. If you are interested, continue to read our travel post below

How to Plan Your 7 Days Kansai Japan itinerary

Osaka itinerary:

Osaka food blog:

Kyoto itinerary: 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto

Kyoto Food Blog:

Kuromon Ichiban Market Food
Osaka Food Guide: Best Food To Eat In Osaka

Osaka Food Guide: What To Eat in Osaka

by | posted in: Asia Food Guide, Japan, Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on December 22nd, 2024

Read on our Top 8 Best Food To Eat In Osaka. An ultimate Osaka food guide if you are looking for what and where to eat in Osaka.

Welcome to Osaka! Osaka is Japan’s kitchen’ for your food adventure in Japan! It is a very popular destination for many travelers. Centrally located in the Kansai region, Osaka is a great location to visit other cities such as Kyoto, Nara, Uji, and Kobe. It is famous for its modern architecture, shopping and best eat in Japan.

There is a few iconic and famous food in Osaka that must eat when visiting here. In this article, we will introduce each of these foods and why it is so special. Most importantly, we listed our Osaka eating guide from what we ate and try during our visit to Osaka. Together with a location map and how to get there to help you to decide on your Osaka food tour.

Meanwhile, continue to read on our food blog for the ultimate Osaka food guide for the best Osaka specialties.

Osaka Food Guide

Osaka Food Guide Blog
Osaka Food Guide Blog

That is to say, the most challenging isn’t finding what to eat in Osaka. You will find it is more difficult when to decide on the best food in Osaka. There are so many great choices recommended from the Osaka travel food blog with various opinions.

We understand that sometimes it is hard to make the arrangement to eat all of them especially since we have only a limited 1 or 2 days in Osaka. In this Osaka Food guide blog for food lovers, find out what and where are the best places to eat in the city.

Osaka Food Guide: The Must-eat Best Food in Osaka

  • Takoyaki – Octopus Ball
  • Okonomiyaki – Japanese Savory Pancake
  • Kushikatsu – Battered, Deep-Fried Skewer
  • Yakitori in Izakaya
  • Fugu, Exotic Special Delicacy
  • Local Street Food from Kuromon Ichiba Market
  • A Hot Bowl of Tasty Ramen
  • Desserts and Snacks
Osaka Food Tips: When looking for best food in Osaka, we recommended staying nearby subway station to ease on transport arrangement. Check for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Osaka check prices for Osaka Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.

Takoyaki (Octopus Ball)

Takoyaki best cheap food in Osaka
Takoyaki best cheap food in Osaka

The Takoyaki, also known as octopus ball. It is Osaka’s most famous snack and can be considered a synonym for Osaka. This classic Osaka snack is made from eggs and flour filled with octopus, ginger, and green onions. It is then fried into bite-sized balls and topped with a savory sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed, and katsuobushi flakes.

Remember to eat it while is still hot and fresh. It is crispy crust at the edge but soft in the middle.

Best Takoyaki in Osaka

Osaka Food Guide - Best Takoyaki

No doubt, Takoyaki is one of the most famous street food. So sure the Takoyaki is one of our top three must in our Osaka food guide list. You can easily find them on any busy street in Osaka and even in Japan. It is something that you need to try, especially for first-time visitors.

One of the best takoyaki in Osaka:

  • Kogaryu (甲賀流): Takoyaki from Kogaryu is topped with a sweeter sauce. It is best to match with their sweet sauce and their special mayonnaise sauce. Takoyaki fans rated it as one of the best takoyaki in Osaka. Kogaryu has a couple of sister branches across Osaka, including Dotonbori.

Best takoyaki in Dotonburi

Kukuru Dotonburi serving the best takoyaki in Osaka

Dotombori has the most takoyaki stores and is famous for this Osaka’s best cheap eat. So, remember to enjoy this flavored snack when you are in Dotonbori.

Below are the few popular shops serving the best takoyaki in Dotonburi, Osaka. All have their supporter for this tasty Osaka food.

  • Aizuya claimed for the first and invented for Takoyaki. So this is the best place for you to try the most authentic takoyaki in Osaka. Their takoyaki is best to taste without the sauce. So that you can know how tasty the original takoyaki.
  • Secondly, one of the more famous takoyaki stores in Dotomburi is Kukuru. It stands ahead of the fierce competition in Dotomburi. You can easily spot it with a gigantic octopus signboard on its shopfront when you are in the busy street. There is always a long line waiting to try on their famous takoyaki.
  • Wanaka is one of the most popular takoyaki shops in Osaka. Their handmade takoyaki is so crisp yet melts in your mouth when you eat. It is located on the same street as Kukuro in Dotomburi.

Getting there: 3 to 6 minutes walk from Namba station.

Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake)

best Okonomiyaki in Osaka: Fukutaro (福太郎)
Osaka Must Eat: Okonomiyaki, Japanese Savory Pancake

Next on our Osaka food guide. The Osaka-style okonomiyaki is another must-eat when visiting Osaka. Okonomiyaki is a kind of savory pancake made from eggs, flour, and shredded cabbage. It was grilled into round shapes by topped with different ingredients such as pork, squid, shrimp, beef, seafood, and more.

You’ll fall in love with Okonomiyaki after trying on it in Osaka, just like me! Whenever I visited Osaka, I am always looking for a chance to try at least one Okonomiyaki in Osaka.

Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka

Many places offer this savory Japanese pancake, okonomiyaki in Osaka. Each shop has its recipe for tasty okonomiyaki.

Top 3 Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka

Below is the highly recommended okonomiyaki that was rated as the Top 3 best okonomiyaki in Osaka after my food review:

  • Mizuno (美津の) is one of the Michelin-starred restaurants in Osaka that specialized in Okonomiyaki. It is a family-run restaurant with a long history since 1945. It was best known for its unique okonomiyaki called yoshokuyaki with noodles on top. Extremely popular among locals and visitors with consistently waiting lines in front of the shop.
  • Fukutaro (福太郎) is one of our favorite takoyaki while we were in Osaka. Their okonomiyaki is prepared and cooked in front of you at the counter bar where customers are seated surrounded. You can try on their Negiyaki which replaces the cabbage with green onion.
  • Kiji (きじ 本店) is another popular Okonomiyaki in Osaka. Even locals flock to Kiji to try on this best Okonomiyaki. It is located in the quaint basement of the Umeda sky building with a queuing line always front from the shop to the staircase. So be prepared to wait to taste it.

Lastly, make sure to read on our food blog the top 3 best okonomiyaki in Osaka. We have listed our dining experiences to Kiji, Fukutaro, and Mizuno. The best and quick way if you are looking for where to eat okonomiyaki in Osaka.

Kushikatsu (Battered, Deep-Fried Skewer)

Kushikatsu - Osaka Food Guide
Kushikatsu: Battered, Deep Fried Skewer

Besides okonomiyaki and takoyaki, Kushikatsu is one of the signature Osaka food that you hardly can’t miss when visiting Osaka. It is a deep-fried, battered skewer of meat or vegetables. Typical the menu of kushikatsu is meat and vegetables. For example pork, beef, shrimp, pumpkin, onion, quail’s eggs, asparagus wrapped in bacon, shiitake mushrooms, and more.

Normally kushikatsu is served hot by the chef in front of you. Next, dip it into the thin and black special recipe sauce. The dipping sauce is shared among the customers. So please take note no double-dipping is allowed. A stick of kushikatsu is priced from as low as 100 yen to 500 yen depending on the kushikatsu you choose.

Best Kushikatsu in Osaka

Shinsekai Osaka

This Osaka’s best cheap food, Kushikatsu can be found all over Osaka and Japan. However, Shinseikai is the birthplace of kushikatsu. Therefore, this is where to eat the best kushikatsu in Osaka. To get there, there is about a 3-minute walk from Subway Sakaisuji-line Ebisucho station.

Kushikatsu Baikingu Daitoryo with buffet style kushikatsu in Osaka
Kushikatsu Baikingu Daitoryo with buffet-style kushikatsu in Osaka

Best Kushikatsu in Shinseikai, Osaka:

  • Ganso Kushikatsu Daruma is one of the most popular kushikatsu restaurants in Osaka with shops in Dodomtori, Shinseikai, and many other branches scattered around central Osaka. While Daruma’s flagship store is located in Shinseikai, so don’t forget to head over to taste it if you are visiting Tsutenkaku and nearby neighborhoods.
  • Kushikatsu Baikingu Tabehokdai Daitoryo is the buffet-style kushikatsu restaurant in Shinseikai. You have freely selected any item from the menu to eat with various flavor combinations of sauce. The price is very reasonable with lunch at around 1000 yen and dinner at 1600 yen for all you can eat within one hour. The weekend will be slightly more expensive compared with weekdays. Local’s favorite kushikatsu!
  • Another popular restaurant in Shinseikai serving the best kushikatsu is the Yaekatsu – Local Favorite Osaka Best Kushikatsu. Founded 50 years ago, this popular restaurant is famous for its fluffy kushikatsu which is deep-fried at high temperatures. There is always a line to try on in the morning. Wide variety of kushikatsu up to 30 items on the menu. Read more our food trip: Yaekatsu: Local Favorite Osaka Best Kushikatsu
Yaekatsu Osaka

Yakitori in Izakaya

Next on our Osaka must-try food guide. Yakitori is a traditional Japanese grilled chicken skewer from various parts of the chicken. For example, it widely consists of different cuts of meat, skin, wing, heart the organ. Normally it is cooked with either sweet soy sauce or just salt.

I am sure you will love how simple, tasty and fun it is to eat yakitori in Osaka. It is a simple dish but can also be specialized by its cooking method and sauce. Moreover, the best part of eating yakitori is drinking alcoholic beer or Japanese sake with a group of friends in Izakaya (Japanese pub). Enjoy Yakitori in Izakaya!

Best yakitori from Torikizoku Osaka
Enjoy Yakitori in Izakaya

Popular Izakaya in Osaka

Torikizoku is the Yakitori specialty restaurant in Osaka. This budget-friendly Yakitori restaurant has many branches in Osaka including Dodomburi, and Namba, and is scattered around the Kansai region.

One of the best parts of Torikizoku is their yakitori are using Japanese domestic chicken. Additionally, it is offered at the fixed price of 280 yen including tax. A perfect place for people who experience the Japanese izakaya culture without breaking their bank.

We visited Torikizoku for supper during one of our stays in Osaka. The menu consists of Japanese grilled skewers with up to almost 30 kinds of yakitori to choose from. We ordered various yakitori to try on. The yakitori was so juicy and tasty. It tastes so good with cooling beer. The best place to look for what to eat in Osaka for late night or supper. Highly recommended if you are looking for the best Yakitori in Osaka.

Best Yakitori in Osaka: Torijiro Dotombori Branch

  • Address: 4-5F, Bonchi Bldg., 1-10-7, Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
  • Operating hour: Daily from 17:00 to the next day at 2:00 a.m. Added, Friday and Saturday will be until 5:00 a.m.

Legendary Osaka Street Food Izakaya

Izakaya Toyo The Legendary Osaka Best Street Food

If you are in Osaka you simply must go and experience the legendary Izakaya Toyo! A standing street food stall specializing in seafood and sushi with a local vibe located close to Kyobashi Station.

Chef Toya San

Izakaya Toyo (居酒屋とよ) is a popular Osaka street food vendor that specializes in seafood. It was started by owner and chef Toyoji Chikumoto in 1992. Toyo-san has been through so much and he has succeeded in his dream. His life story appeared in the Netflix episode on Osaka’s street foods and you will have a deep appreciation for Toyo-San.

What To Eat in Izakaya Toyo - Fatty Tuna

We highly recommended Izakaya Toyo to experience the charm and passion of Toyo san. The casual vibe and the chef’s loud energy makes for a great experience. The quality of the food is excellent and fresh. You won’t be disappointed!

Read more on our food trip: Izakaya Toyo: Legendary Osaka Best Street Food

Izakaya Toyo (居酒屋とよ)
Address: 3 Chome-2-26 Higashinodamachi, Miyakojima Ward, Osaka.
Getting there: 3 minutes walk from Kyobashi Station.
Operating hours: Closed on Thursday, Sunday, and Monday.

Pro Tips: Always check their website for the opening time before your visit!

Fugu, Exotic Special Delicacy

Taste on blowfish in Kuromon market Osaka
The Fugu, Exotic Special Delicacy

Fugu or also called blowfish or pufferfish. It is one of Japan’s exotic special delicacies and be very poison if it does not handle properly. Every Fugu chef is specially trained to qualify for a license.

That’s no other better place than Osaka to try the fugu. You can try to taste blowfish at the cheapest price in the Kuromon market. But the Zuborayo is the most famous blowfish restaurant in Osaka. You can easily spot this restaurant with its large inflated blowfish lantern. The fugu course set consists of various ways of dishes. From fugu sashimi, shabu-shabu, karaage, or even fugu in sake. A unique food experience in Osaka.

Local Street Food from Kuromon Ichiba Market

Best places for food in Osaka is Kuromon Market
Best Food from Kuromon Ichiba Market

One of the best spots for local street food in Osaka is Kuromon Market. No doubt, Kuromon Ichiba market is the best place to taste Osaka’s best food. This food market is home to hundreds of shops selling local produce such as seafood, fruits, vegetables, and meats. Most importantly, all kinds of prepared food samples of the best food in Osaka.

Food Hunting in Osaka Local Market

Enjoy fresh seafood at Kuromon Ichiba market

There is a variety of seafood and street food available for your food hunting in Kuromon Ichiba Market. I have visited Osaka three times and the Kuromon market is one of the must-visit places for food. It is best to visit during the morning before getting crowded by visitors.

Kuromon Market Food Unagi

We enjoyed our food tour in the Kuromon market from start until the end of the street. Enjoy the seafood feast here with fresh uni (sea urchin), oyster, grilled scallop, crab leg, and prawns. Besides, don’t forget to taste the fatty tuna as it was cheaper compared with other places.

Meanwhile, we have listed down the top 10 must-eat food if you are interested to look at what to eat in Kuromon Market.

Related Food Blog: What to eat in Kuromon Ichiba Market

A Hot Bowl of Tasty Ramen

Osaka is the hot spot for the ramen battleground in Japan. There are so many ramen shops opened in Osaka for competing for the best ramen restaurants in Osaka. From popular chain restaurants to local home ramen stores.

For first-timer, probably you’ll confuse about the best place to enjoy a bowlful and flavourful ramen.

Osaka Best Ramen

Ichiran Ramen in Osaka Dodonburi
Enjoy a Hot Bowl of Tasty Ramen

Where to find the best ramen in Osaka? Here is the top pick for the best ramen in Osaka that you should not miss.

  • Origin from Fukuoka, Ichiran Ramen is one of the largest Japanese Ramen chains in Japan. Famous for its Tonkotsu ramen, Ichiran is popular among foreigners. Many people love their favored and rich taste of Tonkotsu broth soaked with thin noodles. There are even three Ichiran ramen shops in the Dotonburi area. But still, a long line always especially at Ichiran Dotonbori Main Building.
  • For local’s favorite, we recommended you headed to Human Beings Everybody Noodles (人類みな麺類). This ramen specialty in Osaka served the soy sauce (shoyu) ramen. You can choose to have 1 slab or 2 slabs of massive char siu pork topping to satisfy your appetite. Tasty and flavorful ramen in Osaka.

There are many good ramen restaurants across the city. If you want to know where to eat the best ramen in Osaka, you can check out my recommendations on Where To Eat Ramen in Osaka.

Desserts and Snacks

Aside from must-try local specialties, Osaka has a wide variety of delicious dishes including dessert. There are so many cafes, patisseries, coffee, and dessert shop scattered all over Osaka. After your delicious lunch or dinner, don’t forget to stop by for one of the best desserts in Osaka to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Enjoy PABLO chessecake in Dodonbori Osaka
Enjoy PABLO cheesecake in Dodonbori Osaka

Popular Osaka Cafes

Here are the top three popular dessert shops you need to visit in Osaka!

  • My vote goes for PABLO for the best dessert in Osaka. PABLO is famous for its freshly baked cheese tart throughout Japan. There are many PABLO shops in Osaka. We recommended you try the PABLO Dotonbori with a seating area. The freshly bake Pablo cheesecake is just like melting in your mouth. Read my food review in PABLO Dotonori Osaka here.
  • Next, Herb is one of the popular Japanese chain cake shops. Origin from Nagoya, Harbs Osaka is located inside the 6th floor of Daimaru 6th floor in Osaka station. Their most famous and signature Mille Crepes are stuffed with fresh thick cream and freshest fruit in each layer. A perfect place for tea time in Osaka.
  • Last but not least, you may consider trying on the Meotozenzai. It is a Japanese sweet red bean soup made with premium red beans. They say that people who ate their red bean soup will be blessed with a good marriage. While one order will come with two bowls of red bean soup which represent husband and wife.

More Osaka Food Tips

What is Osaka’s famous food?

In our opinion, Osaka is a widely popular travel destination and food paradise for many.

What is Must Eat food in Osaka?

Osaka is well-known for Takoyaki and okonomiyaki. These two food specialties are the must-eat food that you hardly can’t miss in Osaka.

How much does food cost in Osaka?

The meal prices in Osaka can vary and the average meal price in Osaka normally costs about ¥2,000 to ¥4,000 per person. While expected the dinner price will be more experience than lunch.

Where To eat cheap in Osaka?

Ramen is one of the best cheap food in Osaka. A bowl of ramen usually costs around ¥800 to ¥1,100.

Overview: Best Food in Osaka

Osaka Food Guide - What To Eat in Osaka

All in all, hopefully, my Osaka food guide will help in planning what to eat in Osaka. There are so many mouthwatering foods that you can’t miss during your visit. Enjoy your Osaka food tour!

Related Osaka Food blog:

Lastly, this Osaka Food Guide is part of my Osaka travel blog. Read on my other travel post to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Uji on my 7 days Kansai itinerary.

How to Plan Your 7 Days Kansai Japan itinerary

Osaka Itinerary: Things To Do in Osaka itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog

Kyoto itinerary: 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto

Best Day trip from Kyoto or Osaka

Kyoto Food Guide: What to eat in Kyoto

What To Eat in Kyoto: Top 8 Must Eat Food Guide

by | posted in: Asia Food Guide, Japan, Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on December 22nd, 2024

Visiting Kyoto and looking for what to eat in Kyoto? Here is the top must-eat food that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Kyoto.

Kyoto is world-famous for its historical stunning shrine and beautiful garden. If you come to Kyoto, you will want to try their local food. Compare with Osaka which is famous as Japan’s kitchen, Kyoto food is more focused on traditional local dishes. Kyoto is known for its clean water. Consequently, Kyoto is famous for Tofu, Sake, and Soba which required good quality water to produce.

Added, one of the important tips for your Kyoto food hunt trip. It is important to look for accommodation for your food trip. Some people only plan for a day trip from Osaka to Kyoto. But it is a better idea to stay in Kyoto for 2 to 3 days to explore the beauty of Kyoto and also Kyoto food hunting. For a smart traveler, consider staying nearby Kyoto station for easy getting around. We recommended Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto with a great-sized room and tons of restaurants and shops within walking distance.

In this food post, I will introduce you to the top must-eat food in Kyoto. Most of the food is very extraordinary and only can be found in Kyoto. Make sure to give this food a try when visiting there.

Kyoto Food Guide

There are definitely heaps of traditional Japanese foods on offer, as well as local specialties in Kyoto. Here is some of the recommendation Kyoto’s best food if looking for what to eat in Kyoto.

Top Must Eat Food in Kyoto:

  • Kyoto Fire Ramen
  • Nishin Soba
  • Kyoto Ramen
  • Handwoven Teori Sushi
  • Yudofu
  • Kyoto Style Sushi
  • Green tea dessert
  • Japanese street food
  • Japanese Dessert (Mont Blanc Chesnut dessert)
What is Kyoto famous food?

Kyoto is famous for its traditional style of Japanese cuisine with a long history. Kyoto cuisine has its unique characteristic of using seasonal ingredients without over-flavoring the dish when eating.

What should I eat in Kyoto?

Tofu is almost synonymous with Kyoto cuisine. Almost every shop and restaurant will serve tofu as part of their meal.

Where To Eat Cheap in Kyoto?

One of the best places to eat cheap in Kyoto is at Nishiki Market with loads of great street foods, Kyoto snacks, and more.

Kyoto Fire Ramen

Flaming Kyoto fire ramen

Our top 1 must-eat food in Kyoto is the Menbakaichidai Kyoto fire ramen. This flaming ramen is an extraordinary dining experience where the ramen burning right in front of you. Located nearby Nijo Castle within 10 minute walk, Menbakaichidai is very popular among visitors. People are coming here to try on ramen on fire. While the shop is very small with only can for 12 people. So expected to wait in line.

I visited Fire Ramen Menbaka during my 3 days Kyoto itinerary. There were about 30 minutes of waiting time for this hot bowl of ramen. Clear instruction and safety rules required you to follow to try on the flaming Kyoto ramen. It was amazing when the staff pour the flaming oil into your ramen. Truly a memorable dining experience in Menbakaichidai.

For detailed food review and dining experience: Kyoto fire Ramen Menbaka.

Kyoto Fire Ramen Menbaka:

Kyoto Travel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Kyoto check prices for Kyoto Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy. We recommended staying nearby Kyoto station for easy getting around. The Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto is in a great strategic location with 5 minutes walk from Kyoto Station. Great sized room, and tons of restaurants and shops within walking distance.

Nishin Soba

One of Kyoto’s specialty cuisine is Nishin soba. It is a local herring fish soba noodle dish with flavored soy sauce broth. The herring fish was perfectly smoked with sweet and salty tastes. It is a very unique Kyoto-style soba noodle that you can’t simply find it anywhere. A representative specialty of Kyoto!

Kyoto must eat Nishin Soba from Matsuba

Matsuba Soba is the oldest and most famous Nishin soba restaurant in Kyoto. It is said is the inventor of Nishin soba and is highly recommended by locals.

The main store of Matsuba Soba is located beside Minamiza Theater. It is easy to find at Kawaramachi downtown. Alternatively, you can try the Nishin soba at Matsuba Kyoto Station.

Nishin Soba from Matsuba

The handmade soba noodles from Matsuba with different structures compared to ramen. The Nishin soba was delicious and the taste was exceptional. Added, warm service by lovely staff to make you feel at home.

How to get to Matsuba Soba Main Store: From Kyoto station, take the Kyoto City Bus to “Shijo-kawaramachi”. Next, 5 minutes walk will get you to Matsuba.

Best Nishin soba in Kyoto, Matsuba:

  • Address: 192 Kawabata-cho, Shijo-ohashi Higashi-iru, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto.
  • Operating Hour: Daily 11:00 to 21:30
  • Price: Approximate 1400 yen.

Kyoto Ramen

Ramen is the typical Japanese noodle with different types of broth and is topped with a variety of meat and vegetable. No doubt, ramen is one of the most popular dishes in the whole of Japan. While each city has its local recipe and sure Kyoto has its version of Kyoto ramen.

Kyoto Masutani ramen

We got our taste of Kyoto ramen in Kyoto Ramen Koji on the 10th floor of Kyoto station. It is home to eight ramen specialties from Hakata, Sapporo, Fukushima, Tokyo, Toyama, Tokushima, Kyoto, and Osaka.

For sure, we decided to try on Masutani ramen shop which origin in Kyoto. This ramen store was established in 1948 and it is the birthplace of ramen in pork back fat soy sauce. The broth was very flavorful and tasty. Of course, there is a wide variety of Kyoto ramen shops to try during your trip. Make sure to try on a hot bowl of ramen in Kyoto.

Kyoto Ramen Koji

  • Address: Kyoto, Shimogyo, Karasuma-dori, Shiokoji-Sagaru, Higashi-Shiokojicho 901, Kyoto Station building 10F
  • Operating hour: 11:00 to 22:00 (Last order 21:30)
  • Price: less than 1000 yen for a hot bowl of ramen.

Handwoven Teori Sushi

The new kind of sushi style called tengiri-zushi has a unique artistic twist between traditional and modern sushi. The handwoven sushi is kind of like a de-constructed meal. You’re free to DIY and make your own Teori sushi according to your desire. 

AWOMB Kyoto An Unique Teori Sushi Dining Experience
AWOMB Kyoto

The AWOMB Karasuma Honten is the origin of this hand-woven sushi. The unique sushi-style platter set meal comes with fresh local obanzai, where you can roll your own sushi with nori (seaweed), obanzai, and rice of your own choice. But what is so overwhelming is the obanzai and condiments were served in a beautifully arranged tray for you to make your own sushi. What’s an eye feast dining experience in Kyoto!

AWOMB Handwoven Sushi

Apparently, there is a total of 4 shops in Kyoto. We visited the AWOMB Karasuma Honten, located about 30 minutes away from downtown. From our hotel, Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto, we took the train to Shijo Station and walked to the AWOMB Kyoto. It was about 7 minutes walking distance to the shop. Be sure to book in advance, as very limited table capacity. Feel free to read on our Kyoto food blog at AWOMB Kyoto.

AWOMB Kyoto An Unique Teori Sushi Dining Experience

AWOMB Karasuma Honten

  • Address: 189 Ebanagicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • Operating hours: Lunch 12:00-14:00 LO, Dinner 18:00-20:00 LO
  • Price: The supreme set comes with 3,000 yen

Yudofu

One thing listed as a must-try in Kyoto is yudofu. It is boiled tofu that places in a hot pot with vinegar sauce. Sound simple right? Don’t underestimate these simple dishes as it need clean water and quality soybean to process good tofu. Kyoto has met all of its criteria. Moreover, it was used to be vegetarian cuisine for Buddhist monks.

For the best place for you in Kyoto, most people will vote for Yudofu Sagano. It is famous for tofu kaiseki in Arasihayama. Enjoy the traditional Japanese garden during your yudofu kaiseki meal. If you love tofu, you’ll sure enjoy eating here. A great tofu dining experience in Arashiyama in Yudofu Sagano.

Best cheap eat in Arashiyama Yudofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu

I am not a fan of tofu. Since yudofu is one of the most eaten food in Kyoto, we decided to try the tofu dishes in Tofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu. It is a cabin kiosk on the main street of Arashiyama, selling various kinds of tofu dishes.

What to eat at Yudofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu

While the price is relatively cheap at about 500 yen for one dish. However, don’t underestimate its popularity. A lot of locals were queuing for the tofu dishes. All of us ordered a bowl of soba and the yudofu at Tofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu to try.

Yudofu from Tofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu

The yudofu was so soft like melted in your mouth. And I can’t imagine that it was delicious. It changes my image of the traditional tofu dish. So be sure to try it for yourself. A popular shop in Arashiyama if you are looking for the best cheap eats in Arashiyama.

Tofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu (嵯峨豆腐 三忠)

  • Address: 2-1 Sagatenryuji Tateishicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8375, Japan
  • Price: Ranging from 300 yen to 700 yen depending on the item.

Kyoto Style Sushi

Kyoto style sushi from Izuju

For authentic Kyoto-style sushi, Izuju Sushi is one of the must-try tastes the Kyoto. Located nearby Yasada Shrine, Izuju Sushi is a quaint century-old sushi restaurant in Kyoto. Compare with the regular nigiri sushi, sushi in Izuju is prepared differently. Their sushi rice is marinated with vinegar. So the taste will be different from this traditional Kyoto-style sushi. It has a stronger burst of flavor when tasted.

Limited tables available and long queue especially during peak hours. While most of the customers are takeaway for a picnic. So the queue moves very fast. Please be sure to write down your name on the reservation list. The staff will be called you according to the running number.

If you’d like to have normal sushi, then this restaurant is not for you. However, if you’d like to feel and taste the authentic Kyoto sushi, this is the perfect restaurant for you.

Izuju Sushi Kyoto:

  • Address: 292 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan
  • Operating hour: Daily from 10:30 to 19:00. Closed at Wednesday.

Green Tea Dessert

Matcha ice cream

Located 30 minutes from Kyoto, Uji is the birthplace of Japanese green tea. So, no surprise that Kyoto has tons of green tea specialty stores selling kind of match products. Matcha lovers don’t miss the opportunity to try as much as possible.

Among them, Tsujii Gion is one of the must-try desserts in Kyoto. It is a popular dessert cafe in Kyoto, specializing in green tea and matcha. Most importantly, Tsujiri uses the top-notch green tea from Uji. It gained its popularity by serving various kinds of sweets. For example shaved ice, cake, jelly drinks, green tea noodles, and more. Moreover, their hojicha parfait is the best selling, especially during summer.

We originally planned for afternoon tea at Tsujiri. However, the line was so long. While this dessert shop has many branches in Japan and even oversea, we ended up giving up and proceeded with our Kyoto itinerary. So for those who want to try on the dessert in Tsujiri, please be ready for the queue..

Tsujiri Gion Kyoto

  • Address: 573-3 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0074, Japan
  • Operating hour: Daily from 10:00 to 19:30 or 20:00

Japanese Street Food

Kyoto Nishiki Market

Last but not least, remember to try on Japanese street food in Kyoto. While the Nishiki Market is the most popular food market in Kyoto. It is a narrow street filled with more than a hundred food stores and restaurants.

With over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to traditional Japanese sweets, you can find something to eat here. So, this is one of the great places to sample as much as possible Japanese street food in Kyoto.

Read More: Nishiki Market Travel Guide: What To Eat and Buy

Nishiki Market

  • Address: 609, Nishidaimonjicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto.
  • Operating Hour: Daily from 9:30 to 18:00
Street food tour in Arashiyama Kyoto

Moreover, we also recommended street food hunting in Arashiyama street. There has a variety of snack food on the busy street of Arashiyama. We tried fried chicken, takoyaki, matcha ice cream, mochi, and various street food. A great place to sample Japanese snack food.

Japanese Dessert

Waguri Senmon Saori - Kyoto Mont Blanc

Treat yourself to a traditional Japanese dessert when visiting Kyoto! The charming city has many dessert shops and cafes are offering dessert in traditional setting. There are many Japanese dessert you can try in Kyoto but one can’t miss the chance to try it the Mont Banc.

The making of Mont Blanc at Waguri Senmon Saori

In Japan, Mont Blanc is made with a pureed, sweetened sponge cake base, topped with layered rich chestnut cream. The pressed chestnut cream is generously topped with long piped strings into a mountain shape. This desset is particular popular in Kyoto!

Enjoy the Mont Blanc soft-served ice cream from Waguri Senmon Saori

Kyoto’s best Mont Blanc from Waguri Senmon Saori – This little gem is a popular dessert place in Kyoto and is known for its Mont Blanc Chesnut dessert using the waguri (Japanese chestnut). Their desserts are served delicately and carefully that all look like pieces of art.

Related Read: Waguri Senmon Saori – Kyoto Best Mont Blanc Chestnut Dessert

Waguri Senmon Saori (和栗専門 紗織 さをり)
Address: 170-1 Izumiyacho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto.
Business Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 18:00 (Last order at 17:30)

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Kyoto Food Guide with Best Restaurant

This top must-eat food in Kyoto is part of our Kyoto travel blog. For travel tips to Kyoto, check out our Kyoto travel guide below. We have included the 3 days Kyoto travel itinerary, food review, and transportation guide. Happy travel to Kyoto!

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