Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is famous for its rich cultural heritage, serene temples, and lush gardens. But beyond its historic beauty, Kyoto is also a haven for food lovers, offering a wide variety of delicious street food that perfectly captures the essence of the city’s culinary traditions. From savory snacks to sweet treats, the city’s vibrant food scene will make your taste buds dance.
Here are five street foods you absolutely must try when you find yourself wandering the charming streets and markets of Kyoto:
1. Yaki Imo (Roasted Sweet Potatoes)
The Heartwarming Winter Snack
When the chill of winter settles in, one of Kyoto’s most comforting street foods is yaki imo—roasted sweet potatoes. These humble yet delicious snacks are sold by street vendors, especially during the colder months, with the sweet aroma of roasting potatoes wafting through the air. The purple-skinned satsumaimo variety is the most popular, known for its naturally sweet, creamy texture. Vendors often serve them warm, wrapped in newspaper to keep the heat in.
While you can find yaki imo on street corners throughout Japan, Kyoto’s mountainous landscape and colder weather make this roasted treat particularly satisfying. You can enjoy it as a snack while strolling through the beautiful Philosopher’s Path or near the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
2. Kibi Dango (Sweet Rice Flour Balls)
A Sweet Tradition
For a sweet and chewy treat, kibi dango is a Kyoto specialty that will leave you craving more. Made from rice flour, sugar, and starch, these soft, bite-sized balls are often coated in a dusting of soybean flour (kinako) or rolled in sweet syrup. You’ll find vendors selling these delightful snacks from traditional wooden carts or in the bustling markets of Kyoto, particularly around Nishiki Market.
Kibi dango is a nod to Kyoto’s ancient past, as it was once a snack enjoyed by samurai on their travels. Today, it’s a popular street food, perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Pair it with a hot cup of matcha for a true Kyoto experience.
3. Matcha-flavored Everything
A Green Tea Lover’s Dream
Kyoto is the birthplace of matcha, the finely ground green tea powder that has become a beloved ingredient in Japanese desserts, drinks, and savory dishes. In the streets of Kyoto, you’ll find matcha in nearly every form imaginable, from matcha soft serve ice cream to matcha-flavored mochi, cakes, and even savory snacks like matcha-flavored udon noodles.
One of the most popular matcha street foods is matcha taiyaki, a fish-shaped waffle filled with a smooth, sweetened matcha custard. This crispy treat is a great way to enjoy the rich, earthy flavor of matcha in a fun, portable form. Whether you’re wandering through Gion or visiting the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, a matcha treat is a must-try.
4. Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken)
Crispy, Savory, and Irresistible
If you’re craving something savory, look no further than karaage, Japan’s beloved fried chicken. Although you can find this crispy fried goodness throughout Japan, Kyoto’s version has a distinctive flavor profile, often marinated in soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sake before being deep-fried to golden perfection. The result is juicy chicken with a crispy, crunchy exterior that’s full of flavor.
Street vendors serving karaage will usually offer pieces of chicken in a paper cone or small bowl, making it the perfect snack to eat on the go. Grab some and take a stroll around Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or the bustling Pontocho Alley—two of Kyoto’s best locations for both sightseeing and snacking.
5. Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake)
A Savory Street Food Experience
Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake made from a batter of flour, egg, shredded cabbage, and meat or seafood. The dish is cooked on a hot griddle, and then topped with a variety of condiments such as okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes (katsuobushi), and a sprinkle of seaweed. While it’s more commonly associated with Osaka, you’ll find street vendors offering delicious variations of okonomiyaki in Kyoto too.
In Kyoto, you might find a unique twist on this dish, with ingredients like tofu or local Kyoto vegetables added to the mix. It’s a hearty, satisfying snack that combines crispy and tender textures in every bite. Enjoy it at one of Kyoto’s many lively food stalls or tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries, often nestled in the backstreets near Nijo Castle or the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Final Thoughts
Kyoto is a city that offers so much more than its stunning temples and shrines—it’s a food lover’s paradise, where every corner offers something new and exciting to taste. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory like karaage or something sweet like kibi dango, Kyoto’s street food scene will leave you feeling satisfied and enriched with the flavors of this historic city.
So, the next time you’re exploring Kyoto, be sure to visit the city’s vibrant street food stalls and markets to discover these must-try treats. Each bite will bring you closer to the heart and soul of Kyoto—one delicious street food at a time.