Best Food Souvenirs From Kyoto

Discover the Tastiest Souvenirs From the Ancient Capital

When it comes to food, Kyoto has plenty to offer. From traditional sweets to savory snacks, there’s no shortage of delicious treats to take home as a souvenir. In this article, we’ll explore the best food souvenirs from Kyoto that you won’t want to miss.

1. Matcha Kit Kats 🍫

Matcha Kit Kats are a classic Kyoto souvenir that’s loved by locals and tourists alike. This unique flavor combines the crisp wafer texture of a Kit Kat with the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea. You can find these treats at most convenience stores and souvenir shops in Kyoto.

2. Yatsuhashi 🍬

Another classic Kyoto sweet is yatsuhashi, a traditional Japanese confection made from glutinous rice flour and sugar. These soft, chewy treats come in a variety of flavors, including cinnamon, chocolate, and matcha. Yatsuhashi is a must-try souvenir for anyone with a sweet tooth.

3. Kyoto Sake 🍶

Kyoto is known for its high-quality sake, and there are many breweries in the city that offer tours and tastings. If you’re a fan of Japanese rice wine, consider picking up a bottle of Kyoto sake as a souvenir. Some popular brands include Fushimi, Gekkeikan, and Tamanohikari.

4. Kyo Baum 🍰

Kyo baum is a type of Japanese sponge cake that’s popular in Kyoto. This fluffy dessert is made with eggs, sugar, and flour, and comes in a variety of flavors, including matcha, sesame, and chestnut. Kyo baum is a great souvenir for anyone who loves cake.

5. Kuzu Mochi 🍡

Kuzu mochi is a Kyoto specialty made from arrowroot starch. This chewy, translucent dessert is usually served with a sweet sauce or kinako (roasted soybean powder). Kuzu mochi is a unique souvenir that’s sure to impress your friends and family back home.

6. Senbei 🍘

Senbei are traditional Japanese rice crackers that come in a variety of flavors and shapes. In Kyoto, you’ll find senbei made with local ingredients like yuba (tofu skin) and shoyu (soy sauce). These crunchy snacks are a great souvenir for anyone who loves Japanese snacks.

7. Uji Tea 🍵

Uji is a city located just outside of Kyoto that’s famous for its high-quality green tea. If you’re a tea lover, consider picking up a bag of Uji tea as a souvenir. This tea is known for its fresh, grassy flavor and vibrant green color.

8. Otabe 🍡

Otabe is a type of sweet that’s similar to yatsuhashi, but with a different texture. This treat is made from mochi (sticky rice cakes) that are filled with sweet bean paste and wrapped in a thin layer of dough. Otabe is a popular souvenir that’s sold at souvenir shops and department stores throughout Kyoto.

9. Kyoto Pickles 🥒

Kyoto is known for its pickles, which are made using traditional preservation techniques. These pickles come in a variety of flavors, including cucumber, eggplant, and ginger. If you’re a fan of pickled vegetables, consider picking up a jar of Kyoto pickles as a souvenir.

10. Yuzu Sake 🍶

Yuzu is a type of Japanese citrus fruit that’s commonly used in cooking and drinks. In Kyoto, you’ll find yuzu-flavored sake, which has a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs well with Japanese cuisine. Yuzu sake is a unique souvenir that’s sure to impress your friends and family back home.

11. Kyo-yasai 🥕

Kyo-yasai are traditional Kyoto vegetables that are grown using traditional farming methods. These vegetables are known for their unique colors and flavors, and are used in many local dishes. If you’re a foodie, consider picking up some Kyo-yasai seeds or a cookbook as a souvenir.

12. Yaki Imo 🍠

Yaki imo is a type of sweet potato that’s roasted over an open fire. In Kyoto, you’ll find food trucks and street vendors selling yaki imo in the fall and winter months. This warm, comforting snack is a great souvenir for anyone who loves sweet potatoes.

13. Konpeito 🍬

Konpeito are small, colorful candies that are similar to rock candy. These treats were originally brought to Japan by Portuguese traders in the 16th century, and have since become a popular souvenir. Konpeito comes in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, lemon, and grape.

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, you’re in for a treat. This ancient capital is known for its rich history, stunning temples, and delicious food. In this article, we’ll be focusing on the latter, specifically the best food souvenirs from Kyoto that you won’t want to miss.

From traditional sweets to savory snacks, Kyoto has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a unique souvenir to bring home, these treats are sure to impress. So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Kyoto cuisine.

What Makes Kyoto Food Special?

Kyoto is one of the oldest cities in Japan, and its culinary traditions reflect that. Many of the dishes and ingredients used in Kyoto cuisine have been passed down for generations, and are still prepared using traditional methods. In addition, Kyoto is known for its high-quality ingredients, including locally-grown vegetables and artisanal sweets.

One of the most unique aspects of Kyoto cuisine is its emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Many restaurants and shops in Kyoto change their menus and products to reflect the seasons, so you’ll always find something new and fresh to try.

Why Should You Buy Food Souvenirs in Kyoto?

Food souvenirs are a great way to bring home a taste of your travels. Not only do they make great gifts for friends and family, but they also allow you to relive your trip long after it’s over. When you buy food souvenirs in Kyoto, you’re not just buying a product – you’re buying a piece of the city’s history and culture.

In addition, many of the food souvenirs on this list are unique to Kyoto or the surrounding area, so you won’t find them anywhere else. By buying these treats, you’re getting a true taste of Kyoto cuisine.

What Should You Look For When Buying Food Souvenirs in Kyoto?

When buying food souvenirs in Kyoto, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the shelf life of the product. Some souvenirs, like fresh mochi or pickled vegetables, may not last very long. Make sure to check the expiration date or ask the shopkeeper for advice on how to store the product.

Second, consider the weight and size of the souvenir. If you’re traveling with limited luggage space, you may want to avoid buying heavy or bulky items. Look for souvenirs that are small and lightweight, like candy or tea.

Finally, consider the price of the souvenir. Some Kyoto souvenirs can be quite expensive, so make sure to set a budget before you start shopping. That being said, remember that you’re not just buying a product – you’re buying a piece of Kyoto’s culinary history.

What Are the Best Food Souvenirs From Kyoto?

Without further ado, here are the best food souvenirs from Kyoto:

1. Matcha Kit Kats 🍫

As mentioned earlier, matcha Kit Kats are a classic Kyoto souvenir. These treats combine the crispy wafer texture of a Kit Kat with the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea. You can find them at most convenience stores and souvenir shops in Kyoto.

Matcha Kit Kats are a great souvenir for anyone who loves chocolate or green tea. They’re also relatively inexpensive, so you can buy a few packs to give to friends and family as gifts.

Where Can You Buy Matcha Kit Kats in Kyoto?

You can find matcha Kit Kats at most convenience stores and souvenir shops in Kyoto. Some popular places to buy them include:

Name
Address
Hours

Lawson
Various locations
24 hours

Fukujuen Kyoto Honten
721 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto