Hello, I’m Atsuki, born and raised in Kyoto.
I grew up near Gokou-yu, and I know many niche, lesser-known local spots. I hope this information will help you make the most of your trip.
This model course focuses on onsen and public bathhouses, making it perfect for travelers who want to experience Japanese history and culture more deeply.
13:00 — Shinsen-en Garden
Located quietly near the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site Nijo Castle, Shinsen-en is a peaceful and calming garden-temple complex.
It was originally built over 1,200 years ago as a private imperial garden for the emperor.
Admission is free, and the area sees far fewer tourists than Nijo Castle, allowing you to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere that feels completely different.
The shrine here enshrines a dragon deity that governs water.
In fact, the water surrounding Nijo Castle comes from natural spring water that flows toward Shinsen-en.
13:30 — Sanjō Shopping Street
When it comes to shopping streets popular among tourists visiting Japan, Nishiki Market is the most famous.
However, the shopping street beloved by local Japanese people is Sanjō Shopping Street. If you want to experience the real Japan and an authentic Kyoto shopping street, Sanjō Shopping Street is absolutely the place to go.
Nishiki Market is fun, of course, but in reality, local residents almost never shop there.
Originally, a “market” was meant to be a place where locals buy daily necessities, and Nishiki Market no longer serves that purpose—it is now almost entirely geared toward tourists.
Personally, I strongly recommend visiting Sanjō Shopping Street if you want to experience a genuine local shopping atmosphere in Kyoto.
The photo below shows the shopping street, and as you can see, it’s mostly local Japanese people.
Next, I’ll introduce some recommended shops in Sanjō Shopping Street.
- Sanjo Wakasa-ya
Sanjo Wakasa-ya is a long-established confectionery shop that has preserved traditional Kyoto sweets for generations, including its signature “Gion Chigo Mochi,” a famous Kyoto delicacy.
It’s a place where you can truly feel the authentic atmosphere of Kyoto.
- Amitatsu Seafood
It’s an izakaya, but they also sell takeaway items at the storefront.
You can find fresh dishes such as fried fish and sashimi, so be sure to stop by and try something.
- Meat Shop Hiro
Hiro’s minced-meat cutlet (menchi-katsu) is highly recommended.
It’s a well-known butcher shop in Kyoto, and you should definitely try their menchi-katsu, croquettes, or any of your favorite freshly fried items.
15:00 — Maruki Bakery
This is a popular bakery known for its homemade savory buns, lovingly made by local Kyoto mothers.
Among all their items, the croquette sandwich is especially recommended.
For those who want to experience Kyoto more deeply
For those who want to experience Kyoto more deeply, trying Japanese pickles (tsukemono) is highly recommended.
Tsukemono are traditional Japanese preserved vegetables made by pickling cucumbers, daikon radish, napa cabbage, and other vegetables in salt, vinegar, rice bran, or miso. They are known for their unique flavor and crisp texture.
In Japanese meals, a small portion of tsukemono is often served as a side dish, and they have been loved for hundreds of years.
According to local pickle shops, some international visitors step inside but leave immediately—perhaps because of the distinctive smell or unfamiliar taste.
However, many Japanese people love tsukemono, so I encourage you to give them a try and experience this part of traditional Japanese food culture.
16:00 — Head to Gokou-yu
Relax and soothe your tired feet with a warm bath after all the walking.
For a detailed introduction to Gokou-yu, click here.
18:00 — Recommended for Dinner: COPPIE
After relaxing at Gokou-yu, COPPIE is highly recommended for dinner!
COPPIE is a renovated 120-year-old traditional Kyoto townhouse, offering a wide variety of dishes that blend Western, Japanese, Chinese, and ethnic flavors, using an array of unique spices without being bound to any single culture or cuisine.
It has become a very popular restaurant among international visitors as well.
Finally
How was it?
If you plan to visit an onsen or public bathhouse, I highly recommend exploring the surrounding area as well.
You’ll be able to experience a deeper, more authentic side of Kyoto that you won’t find at typical tourist spots.
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