Dec. 15, 2022 UPDATE
Toji Kobo Market
- 弘法市 -Traveler Friendly
There is not much guidance in foreign languages.
Information
Japanese only
Languages spoken
Japanese only
Period21st of every month
VenueToji Temple
Story & Recommendation
Kobo Market – Huge turnouts and your monthly bargain-hunt!
The Toji Kobo Market takes place at the Toji Temple—near the Kintetsu railway’s Toji Station—on the 21st of every month.
Although Toji Temple is most well known for its five-story pagoda, the 21st of every month sees around 1,000 textile, antique, ceramics and food stalls gather on its grounds. And like the saying “Build it and they will come” goes, these stalls draw huge crowds as well.
This market has been loved by the people of Kyoto for over 700 years, so drop by for a gander at the stalls and see if you can’t find a good deal on some of your favorite things while taking in the wonderful atmosphere of one of Kyoto’s oldest markets.
Even if you aren’t planning on buying anything, it’s also fun to just wander around the market–and hey, you never know, you might just find the bargain you were looking for.
Although Toji Temple is most well known for its five-story pagoda, the 21st of every month sees around 1,000 textile, antique, ceramics and food stalls gather on its grounds. And like the saying “Build it and they will come” goes, these stalls draw huge crowds as well.
This market has been loved by the people of Kyoto for over 700 years, so drop by for a gander at the stalls and see if you can’t find a good deal on some of your favorite things while taking in the wonderful atmosphere of one of Kyoto’s oldest markets.
Even if you aren’t planning on buying anything, it’s also fun to just wander around the market–and hey, you never know, you might just find the bargain you were looking for.
1Highlight
Antiques & Textiles
At the Toji Kobo Market, you can find many expertly-made ceramics, tea cups, and vases. If you're a little lost about what to choose, we recommend talking to the stall owner, though please be aware that they may not understand English.
Prices vary, so you may be able to pick something up for as little as ￥500.
2Highlight
A Mish-Mash of Offerings
Selling everything from footwear and watches to chopsticks and statues of Buddha, you’ll find a whole mish-mash of curious things for sale here. You can even find toys and old records from bygone Japanese singers.
How about picking up a little memento of your trip to Kyoto?
3Let's join!
Chat to Stall Owners!
Many of the people behind the stalls are also the people that made these products, so feel free to stop and let them know what you think or ask them about how they are made. Just be aware that many stall owners may have difficulty communicating in English.
4Let's join!
Get Something from a Food Stall!
After you’ve tired of walking around, take a break and head to one of the many food stalls to grab some delicious food like yakisoba or oden.
Some of the stalls also sell ice cold beer and other alcohol, so if the weather’s nice out, kick back with a cold one over some classic Japanese soul food.
- Manner & Tips -
Please handle the items with care. Please place your rubbish in the rubbish bins provided around the market.
