Kyoto Hidden Gems Shopping Guide: Unique Tableware, Sundries & Specialty Coffee Beans
What to Buy in Kyoto Besides Luxury Goods and Pharmacy Cosmetics?
I spent two days in Kyoto as a “special forces shopper” and came back with a haul of miscellaneous goods that I absolutely love. Here are my recommendations:
❶ Minä Perhonen Cups and Saucers
A must-visit in Kyoto is the Minä Perhonen building. I bought two cups and even got a free tote bag.
Address: Google “mina perhonen”
❷ Animal Crossing Merch
Unsurprisingly, Animal Crossing is my favorite Switch game. When in Kyoto, don’t miss shopping at Nintendo! I snagged some Tom Nook merch and the Tanuki brothers plushies.
Address: Takashimaya 7th floor
❸ Traveler’s Notebook Kyoto Limited Edition
A must-have for journal lovers—especially a limited edition!
Address: ShinPuhKan 1st floor
❹ SOU·SOU
SOU·SOU’s bags and socks are classics. A Kyoto visit isn’t complete without browsing their stores—there’s a whole street of them!
Address: Near Shinkyogoku. Google “SOU SOU”
❺ Tsuji Kazuho Wire Mesh
Featured in *Kyoto Small Stay*, I’ve always wanted their pour-over dripper, tea strainer, and grill. Finally got them this time!
Address: Google the store name. Near Nijo.
❻ *The Eccentric Family* Pilgrimage Goods
Highly recommend visiting Shimogamo Shrine for limited edition goshuin and photo spots.
❼ Assorted Coffee Beans
Weekenders Coffee is a standout. Their in-store brews are great, and the beans I took home were just as delicious.
❸ Ichizawa Shinzaburo Hanpu H11 Tote
Exclusive to Kyoto, Ichizawa Shinzaburo’s bags are legendary. I already own a small crossbody, a large backpack, and a linen tote, but the H11 is still worth it—smart compartments and plenty of pockets.
Address: Google the store name
❾ Iino Natsumi Cat Cup and Saucer
Bought at Utsuwaya Saisai, a tiny roadside shop featuring rotating artisan collections. You’re bound to find something you love here.
Address: Google “UTSUWAYA SAISAI” or “器や彩々”
❶⓪ Mont-bell and Keen
Essentials for Japan trips. Their quick-dry Ts are perfect for the whole family, and the Kyoto store has exclusive designs. Keen sandals and hiking shoes are also great—I regret not buying an extra pair. The kids adore theirs.
Address: Google the stores. Mont-bell is in Shinkyogoku Shopping Street; Keen is at Yodobashi Kyoto Station.
❶① Human Made x Blue Bottle Sharing Cup
Adorably tiny and cute.
