Invitation to Antique Markets
Kyoto’s antique markets reflect the city’s rich history and culture, attracting a wide variety of timeless items, from antiques, old clothes, and books to furniture.
In a sense, Kyoto’s antique markets are not simply places to buy and sell items but places where the past and present intersect.
These markets are held monthly at various temples and shrines in the city and are beloved by locals and visitors from far and wide. They are more than just a place to shop; they are a valuable place to experience Japanese tradition and culture.
Major Antique Markets in Kyoto
To-ji Temple Kobo Market
This antique market is held on the 21st of every month in the precincts of To-ji Temple (Kyo-o Gokoku-ji Temple)1, which Kobo Daishi Kukai established in the Heian period (794-1185) as a fundamental center for esoteric Buddhism
The market offers various goods, from ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, and other antiques to antique kimonos, clothes, toys, accessories, food, and plants.
Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine Tenjin Market
Tenjin Market is held on the 25th of every month at Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine2, the head shrine of all Tenmangu shrines in Japan, where Sugawara no Michizane, known as the god of learning, is enshrined.
From morning until evening, stalls selling antiques, kimonos, records, toys, pickles, and seafood line the grounds and outside of the shrine.
To-ji Temple Garakuta-ichi (Antique Market)
This antique market is held on the first Sunday of every month at To-ji Temple, where the Kobo Market is held. About 150 stores line the streets, attracting many antique lovers.
Kyoto Heian Antique Market
The Kyoto Heian Antique Market3 is held every month along the approach to Heian Shrine, which was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the transfer of the capital to Heian (794-1192), and in the surrounding Okazaki Park.
Approximately 150 booths are set up where antiques and old tools from the East and West are gathered.
Tips for visiting antique markets
- Visit early in the morning: the early bird gets the worm. Head out at sunrise to get the most out of the antique market.
- Have cash ready: Many vendors only accept cash. Be prepared, as there is room for negotiation.
- Be willing to haggle: Bargaining is part of the culture. But do it with respect and honor the other party.
- Be careful with valuables: Antique markets are crowded with people. Be careful to protect your valuables.
Kyoto’s antique markets offer a unique opportunity to explore historical items and traditional artifacts and gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture. When you visit, you will be enriched by the history of the items and by imagining the stories behind each one. Why not add a visit to an antique market to your travel plans to Kyoto?
