Kyoto Station is more than just a transit hub; it’s a bustling commercial center where travelers can indulge in a variety of culinary delights and shop for unique souvenirs. The concourse within Kyoto Station is a hidden gem, offering a wide range of products that capture the essence of Kyoto. From traditional sweets to gourmet bento boxes, you can find everything you need to enhance your travel experience. Let’s dive into what makes Kyoto Station’s concourse a must-visit destination.
A One-Stop-Shop Inside the Shinkansen Gates
Once you pass through the Shinkansen ticket gates at Kyoto Station, you’ll find yourself in a mini shopping mall filled with stores selling local delicacies and souvenirs. If you have a bit of time before your train departs, this is the perfect place to explore. The concourse is designed to cater to travelers, offering convenience and a taste of Kyoto’s rich culture.
One of the biggest advantages of shopping inside the Shinkansen gates is the availability of popular items that are often hard to get elsewhere. For example, the famous Ajari-mochi, a traditional sweet that usually has long queues at department stores, can often be purchased here without the wait.
Gourmet Bento Boxes for Your Journey
In Japan, eating and drinking on the Shinkansen is not only allowed but often a highlight of the travel experience. As long as you are considerate of strong odors, you can enjoy a meal on the go. The Kyoto Station concourse offers a variety of bento boxes, from simple onigiri and sandwiches to elaborate meals from renowned Kyoto restaurants
One standout option is the bento from the “Kyoto’s Old-Taste Maiko” shop. While there are many types of Kyoto-specific bentos displayed on the right side of the shop, the bentos in front of the cash register are offered in limited quantities. Among these, you’ll also find bentos from a long-established restaurant that has been in business since the 1800s
Traditional Sweets and Souvenirs
Kyoto is famous for its traditional sweets, and the station concourse is the perfect place to pick some up. Ajari-mochi (阿闍梨餅）, in particular, is a sought-after treat. While the basement of the Isetan department store connected to Kyoto Station often has long lines for Ajari-mochi, the concourse inside the Shinkansen ticket gates offers a more relaxed shopping experience.
Additionally, you can find a variety of other Kyoto specialties such as yatsuhashi (cinnamon-flavored rice cakes) and matcha-flavored treats. These make for perfect gifts or personal indulgences to savor the flavors of Kyoto.
Refresh with Kyoto’s Finest Green Tea
No trip to Kyoto is complete without sampling its renowned green tea. If you forgot to pick up some earlier in your trip, the concourse has you covered. Various shops offer a selection of green teas, from everyday varieties to premium blends. They even have tea from Ippodo(一保堂茶舗）, a well-known Kyoto tea shop founded in 1717 during the Edo period. Enjoy a refreshing cup as you wait for your train or take some with you to enjoy later.
Modern Comforts and Traditional Delights
The concourse inside the Shinkansen ticket gates also hosts modern conveniences like Starbucks, where you can grab your favorite coffee, and traditional sweet shops (甘味処) that serve exquisite Japanese confections. These additions make it even easier to find something that suits your taste, whether you’re craving a familiar latte or a traditional Japanese sweet.
Convenience and Culture in One Place
The Kyoto Station concourse is a convenient spot for travelers to experience the essence of Kyoto without leaving the station. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack, looking for the perfect souvenir, or planning to enjoy a gourmet meal on your journey, the concourse has something for everyone.
So, next time you find yourself at Kyoto Station with some time to spare, make sure to explore the concourse. It’s a vibrant area that perfectly blends convenience with cultural richness, offering a unique shopping and dining experience that will enhance your travel memories.
