Around Kinkaku-ji Temple, there are many souvenirs packed with the traditions and flavors unique to Kyoto.
Omotesando, bustling with worshippers, is lined with long-established Japanese confectionery shops and general stores, where you can find locally loved delicacies.
From Japanese sweets made with matcha to traditional crafts with a Kinkaku-ji motif, the selection is a delight.
Why not find a gift for a special person along with your memories of Kinkaku-ji Temple?
Below we introduce a carefully selected list of places where you can purchase the souvenirs shown on the map above.
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Honke Yatsuhashi in front of Kinkaku-ji store – Bean-flavored Yatsuhashi
Image source: Honke Yatsuhashi
An Yatsuhashi is a traditional Japanese confectionery that represents Kyoto.
It is made with rice flour, sugar, and cinnamon, and is served in a soft dough filled with sweet bean paste.
Its origins date back to 1689 and it is said to have been created in memory of Yatsuhashi Kengyo, the founder of koto music.
Its distinctive curved shape and soft fragrance make it appealing. Unbaked yatsuhashi is made of steamed dough wrapped around sweet bean paste and is a popular souvenir.
address 14-3 Kinugasa Kaidocho, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture telephone number ー Opening times 9:00～16:00 Closed Day Irregular holidays
Full Moon – Ajarimochi
Image source: Ajarimochi Honpo Kyogashitsukasa Mangetsu
Ajarimochi is a semi-moist confectionery that was invented in 1922 by the Kyoto confectionery shop “Mangetsu.”
It is made by wrapping a filling of Tamba Dainagon red beans in a dough made from rice flour and eggs, and baking it on an iron plate.
It has a unique chewy texture and a subtle sweetness.
Its shape resembles the straw hat worn by monks in training, and its name comes from the Sanskrit word for high priest.
address 〒603-8378 京都府京都市北区衣笠御所ノ内町３０−１ telephone number 075-461-7600 Opening times 10:00～17:00 Close day Irregular holidays
Mamemasa – Kyoto tea dumplings
Image source: Mamemasa
Kyoto Chadango are traditional rice dumplings made with plenty of Uji matcha.
It was invented by Suchi Makichi in 1919, and the traditional manufacturing method has been maintained for nearly 100 years.
Made from 100% rice flour and containing no preservatives or colorings, these specialty dumplings are known as the finest quality with a distinctive natural flavor.
It has a chewy texture and a glossy exterior, and with just one bite, the aroma of matcha and the sweet taste of the dumpling fill your mouth.
address 1 Kinkaku-jicho, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture telephone number 075-211-5211 Opening times 9:00～16:25 Close day Irregular holidays
Itsuji Konbu Kinkaku-ji Branch – Heart Konbu
Image source: Itsuji Konbu
Heart Konbu is a popular product made by Itsuji Konbu, which was founded in 1902.
This thick, heart-shaped piece of kombu is characterized by its slightly sour taste.
It is made using traditional methods that were first developed in Nishijin, Kyoto, and it cherishes the flavor of Kyoto.
It is unique in that it is delivered by registered post and is popular as a souvenir.
address Kyoto City, Kita Ward, Kinugasa Kaido-cho 11-3 telephone number 075-461-5858 Opening times 10:00〜16:00 Close day Irregular holidays
Yamashin Shoten – Yuuko (Yatsuhashi)
Image source: Izutsu Yatsuhashi Honpo
Yuuko is a lyrical confectionery named after the protagonist in Mizukami Tsutomu’s novel “Gobancho Yugiriro.”
Based on the fresh yatsuhashi developed by Izutsu Yatsuhashi Honpo, it combines chewy “fresh yatsuhashi” with moist “tsubuan” bean paste.
Available in a variety of variations and as limited edition seasonal items, they are known as delicious sweets that allow you to feel the traditions of Kyoto.
It is unique in that it is delivered by registered post and is popular as a souvenir.
address 〒603-8376 京都府京都市北区衣笠北天神森町１８ telephone number 075-463-6090 Opening times ー Close day ー
summary
The souvenirs around Kinkaku-ji Temple are all exquisite items that embody the traditions and culture of Kyoto.
Matcha sweets and Japanese confectioneries keep well and are popular as souvenirs to give to colleagues or relatives.
The limited edition items that can only be found at Kinkaku-ji Temple will be a treasured memento of your trip.
There are many long-established shops in Omotesando, so try searching for your favorite item while enjoying a conversation with the shop owner.
Why not end your special day with a visit to the World Heritage Site, Kinkaku-ji Temple, followed by some typical Kyoto shopping?
