Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, Kyoto

Right in the heart of downtown Kyoto, this popular covered pedestrian arcade runs parallel to Teramachi street to the east. Together with Teramachi, it forms Kyoto's main shopping district, but Shinkyogoku has its own distinct vibe catering more to younger tastes.

Here, street fashion takes center stage, and people watching is as common as window shopping. The arcade is filled with hidden shops accessible via escalators, inviting exploration. You'll find a variety of attractions, from "pachinko" parlors to cozy cat cafes and specialty stores offering a plethora of souvenirs, shoes, umbrellas, t-shirts, yukata (casual summer kimono), geta (traditional Japanese footwear), confectionery, character goods, and more. Prices are affordable, making it a hotspot for high-school and university students.

For those who enjoy snacking while shopping, Shinkyogoku is a paradise with its many restaurants and cafes offering street food delights. The whole district is a maze of pedestrian pathways, with small alleyways adding to its charm, blending the tacky with the traditional, and the present with the past. While wandering, you might also want to peek inside a temple nestled along the street.

Tip:
While online sources may suggest late closing times, in reality, most establishments start closing around 7 or 8 PM, so plan accordingly.