We just arrived Kyoto, stay near Kyoto tower. Any good shopping and food around here?

We just arrived Kyoto, stay near Kyoto Tower. Any good shopping and food around here?

Great question! Since I actually lived near Kyoto Station for two years, I can share some personal favorites that locals enjoy around Kyoto Tower and the station area. It’s a lively zone with a mix of classic and casual spots that aren’t just tourist traps but where Japanese people really hang out and eat.

First off, if you’re into Japanese sweets and matcha, I highly recommend visiting Nakamura Tokichi. It’s a famous tea shop where their matcha parfait is legendary. I always make a point to go there when I’m in Kyoto because it’s hard to find such authentic matcha desserts elsewhere. While they have a branch in Ginza, Tokyo, it’s super crowded and you’ll wait forever, so definitely enjoy it here in Kyoto. The parfait is beautifully layered with rich matcha jelly, sweet red beans, and soft cream — perfect for a refreshing break.

For something more savory, try Daiichi Asahi, a ramen shop representing Kyoto-style ramen. Their ramen is simple but delicious, focusing on a clear yet flavorful broth. What’s great is they open early, so if you’re staying near Kyoto Tower, grabbing a bowl for breakfast is totally doable and popular with locals who want a light but satisfying start.

And if you’re in the mood for grilled meat, there’s Kō near Kyoto Station. It’s a casual yakiniku spot where you can enjoy quality meat without the hassle of long lines or the formality of more famous flagship stores. It’s a nice balance of good food and relaxed atmosphere, perfect if you want a simple but authentic dining experience close by.

What if I want some local snacks or souvenirs nearby? Any good shopping spots around Kyoto Station?

Absolutely! Kyoto Station itself is a hub for shopping. The station building has several floors with shops selling local crafts, sweets, and souvenirs. I often browse the “Isetan” department store inside the station for Kyoto specialties like yatsuhashi (cinnamon rice crackers) and green tea products. Also, the underground Porta shopping mall has smaller boutiques and food stalls with interesting Kyoto treats.

For something less touristy, walk a little east towards the shopping arcade around Shichijo Street. There you’ll find local shops selling handmade goods and specialty foods that locals pick up for gifts or home. It’s a good way to see the daily shopping habits of Kyoto residents rather than just tourist souvenirs.

How much should I expect to pay at these places?

Good question! At Nakamura Tokichi, the matcha parfait costs about ¥1,000 to ¥1,200 (roughly $7 to $9 USD), which is reasonable for a dessert experience of that quality. Daiichi Asahi’s ramen is very affordable, around ¥700 to ¥900 ($5 to $7 USD), making it a popular choice for a quick and tasty meal. At Kō yakiniku, expect to spend about ¥3,000 to ¥4,000 ($22 to $30 USD) per person for a casual dinner, depending on what cuts you order.

Is it easy to get to these places from Kyoto Tower Hotel? Any tips on timing or crowds?

All these spots are within a 10-15 minute walk from Kyoto Tower Hotel. Nakamura Tokichi is inside Kyoto Station’s building, so easy and convenient. Daiichi Asahi is just a few minutes’ walk south of the station. Kō is also nearby, just a short stroll east.

Since Nakamura Tokichi can get busy during afternoon snack times (around 2-4 pm), I usually recommend going earlier in the day if you want a quieter experience. Daiichi Asahi opens very early, around 6 or 7 am, so if you want to beat the crowd, breakfast there is a good idea. Kō tends to be less crowded on weekdays and earlier evenings, so avoid prime dinner rush times if you want a more relaxed vibe.

Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of when eating at these local spots?

Yes, a few things to keep in mind. At traditional places like Nakamura Tokichi, it’s polite to wait to be seated rather than just grabbing a table. At ramen shops like Daiichi Asahi, it’s common to eat quickly and leave to make room for others, so don’t linger too long after finishing your meal. And for yakiniku places like Kō, grilling your own meat is part of the fun, but Japanese people tend to cook bite-sized pieces and eat them promptly rather than letting them sit on the grill.

These subtle habits reflect Japanese dining etiquette focused on respect and efficiency, but don’t worry — staff are usually friendly and understanding towards foreigners.

In short, staying near Kyoto Tower puts you right in the heart of a vibrant local scene. You can enjoy authentic Kyoto flavors, relaxed dining, and genuine shopping experiences that Japanese people actually do day-to-day — not just the tourist hotspots. Those little details make a visit special, in my opinion!