Kyoto is at the heart of Japanese culture, and a must-see for all food and handmade product lovers. Beyond zen gardens and temples, Kyoto streets are lined up with small shops that are perfect to complete your cookware and kitchenware collection at home so you can bring a little bit of Japan home with you. From our own Bento&co Shop to legendary makers, we're introducing you to the best spots for food connoisseurs in Kyoto.
Aritsugu (Nishiki Market) : The Best of Japanese Knife Making
Located inside Nishiki Market, Aritsugu is a famous shop founded in 1560! If they started off as saber blacksmiths for the imperial family, Aritsugu evolved to become a premium kitchen knives and kitchen tools maker. Whether you're a professional chef or an amateur cook, you'll be amazed by the diversity and delicacy of the blades on display.
At Aritsugu, you'll find an incredible selection of handmade Japanese kitchen knives (for sushi, meat, etc.), and other kitchen goods. The staff is known for its 5-star customer service and will answer all questions; they also offer services like sharpening or initial engraving on the blade.
Just make sure to plan enough time to see it all!
Address: 219 Kajiya-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8052, Japan
Opening Hours: Thursday to Tuesday, from 10am to 5pm (closed on Wednesdays)
Bento&co Kyoto (Teramachi) : Our Shop in Downtown of Kyoto
Did you know that Bento&co, on top of its online store, has a brick-and-mortar shop here in Kyoto? Opened in 2012, 4 years after we launched our first online store, it is located in the city center. There you'll find everything about bento boxes and Japanese cooking.
In our shop, you can browse a large assortment of bento boxes, accessories, furoshiki (traditional wrapping cloths), and even foods to help you create your best lunches. We also sell home items like tableware, tea canisters, as well as Japanese cookware and kitchenware that will help you make bento prep easy thanks to their top-notch Japanese quality.
It's the best place to find an authentic souvenir, an original present, or simply to immerse yourself in the bento world and Japanese food culture.
Address: 117 Yaoyacho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8072, Japon
Opening Hours: Everyday from 1-6pm on weekdays and from 11am to 6pm on weekends and Japanese bank holidays
Yagi Hochoten: More than 150 years of Craftsmanship in Knife-Making
For more than 150 years, Yagi Hochoten has been making high-quality kitchen tools in Kyoto. Established by saber makers, this little store offers a wonderful array of knives and kitchen tools that are both traditional and functional.
Loved not only by local chefs, but also food lovers and amateur cooks, this store offers durable and high quality products. They sell Japanese kitchen knives as well as kitchen tools crafted according to Japanese tradition and know-how.
Address: 540 Yaoyacho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8123, Japan
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, from 10am to 5pm (closed on Sundays and Mondays).
Conclusion: Restock your Kitchen with Quality Japanese Cookware and Kitchen Tools While in Kyoto
Whether you're looking for the perfect bento box, an artisanal kitchen knife or unique tableware, Kyoto is a treasure trove for any Japanese food aficionado. Don't forget to visit our store for a full shopping experience after visiting our recommendations!