Kyoto is a part of every traveler who is visiting Japan. The country’s capital offers plenty of unique experiences which offer that ‘wow’ factor to all visitors. Whether you are looking to visit historical monuments, get a taste of the architectural history or even go out for shopping. This city has a lot to offer and it will take you more than a single visit to truly bask in the glory of this city. Kyoto has been historically important to Japan for being the Imperial capital, dating back to a thousand years. The city enjoys a humid, subtropical climate with occasional snowfall during the winter season. This gives visitors the opportunity to experience a wide variety of weather conditions, suited to their liking. If you’d like to get some shopping done, we’ve listed, below the shopping malls in Kyoto. Scroll down to find out more.
1. Aeon Mall Kyoto
Formerly known as Diamond City Hana, Aeon mall is one of the largest shopping centers in Japan. The entrance of this mall is awe-inspiring, a grand staircase that leads you to the heart of the complex. The mall offers wide spaces with plenty of resting chairs in case you are looking to take a break. It is located opposite the JR Station, which makes it incredibly easy to reach. This mall has plenty of amenities and shopping outlets to cater to all age groups under a single roof.
Aeon Mall Kyoto
Website: Aeon Mall Kyoto
2. Tokyu Hands Kyoto
This mall is perfect for satiating your thirst for shopping. Stores such as the Creator’s Circle offers virtually endless options when it comes to art supplies, greeting cards, calendars and a wide variety of cute accessories. This mall is sought after by people for beauty products, household items, gadgets and more. The variety of items you can buy is truly overwhelming and you can easily go window shopping in case you are looking to be frugal. We recommend you allocate at least half a day if you are looking to explore all six floors of the Tokyu Hands mall.
Tokyu Hands Kyoto
Website: Tokyu Hands Kyoto
3. Daimaru Kyoto
This department center is a part of a 300-year-old history. It features some of the top brands in the world and provides you unique shopping experience. Visit here if you are looking to purchase items such as cosmetics and Western delicacies. Daimaru is located in Downtown Shimohgyo-Ku in Kyoto. The massive building makes it impossible to miss.
This mall gives you the complete Japanese experience; you are sure to be delighted by the sales attendees due to their courteous nature. The food market is located in the basement of the department store and is highly recommended by dozens of travelers. Daimaru is located close to the Shijyo Subway and Karasuma Subway at the Hankyu line.
Daimaru Kyoto
Website: Daimaru Kyoto
4. Laque Karasuma
The Laque Shijo Karasuma is another shopping center that is located in Downtown, Kyoto. This shopping center is the ideal place for visitors to satisfy their purchasing impulses. The sheer size of this mall exudes extravagance and luxury. The eye-popping window displays make the stores a compelling visit. Don’t be surprised if you suddenly have the impulse to buy everything under the roof. This mall is a haven for women shoppers and you can expect to spend at least half a day here. Whether it’s fine dining, apparel and accessories shopping, this shopping center has everything that you’d wish for.
Laque Karasuma
Website: Laque Karasuma
5. JR Kyoto Isetan
The JR Kyoto Isetan mall is located within the Kyoto station. If you are looking to indulge in sheer luxury, the JR Kyoto Isetan Mall is the place to visit. It features top brands from across the globe, including, but not limited to Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana.
The mall frequently organizes and hosts various festivals and promotional offers, making it a great place to snag the best deals on a variety of items. This mall offers an extended selection of women’s clothing, intimate wear, and cosmetics. They also have a great selection of apparel and items for children and babies. When you get tired from all the shopping, this mall offers dozens of dining options that includes delicious food and a great selection of dessert options.
JR Kyoto Isetan
Website: JR Kyoto Isetan
6. Takashimaya Departmental Store
The Takashimaya Store has been in operation since 1831. This high-end departmental store has an opening ceremony which is a unique experience on its own. Spread across multiple levels, you can find a wide selection of cosmetics, luxury goods, and intricate items. Though this mall is on the pricier side of the spectrum, the sheer beauty of the store earns a spot on your bucket list.
The basement of this store is flooded with virtually all kinds of food that your imagination can muster up. It is also a great place to unwind with a glass of wine with your friends. The store offers a plethora of choices for souvenirs to take back home.
Takashimaya Departmental Store
Website: Takashimaya Departmental Store
7. Kyoto Marui
The Kyoto Marui is a dedicated fashion mall located in Downtown Kyoto, located in the vicinity of Takashimaya. It serves as a great place to catch up on the latest fashion trends in Japan. In case you are looking to explore international offerings, the mall offers a supermarket that is located in the basement of the mall.
The mall features “OIOI” outside the building, making it easier to locate. Whether you are looking to buy household supplies, enjoy a dining experience or looking to splurge on the latest fashion trends, Kyoto Marui is a must-visit.
Kyoto Marui
Website: Kyoto Marui
8. Kyoto Handicraft Center
The Kyoto Handicraft Center is the best place to purchase intricately hand-crafted items and goods. Your purchases directly support the local skilled labor in Kyoto, which makes for a great shopping experience. You will find handmade pottery, figurines, paintings, apparel and more. This is also the best place to buy Samurai armor and swords, which can serve as a great centerpiece for your living room once you get back home.
Kyoto Handicraft Center
Website: Kyoto Handicraft Center
9. Teramachi Kyogoku Shopping District
Located at the heart of Downtown, the Teramachi Shopping Arcade is a great place to bring your kids. Whether you are looking for pocket-friendly souvenirs, printed t-shirts and dozens of other gift options for friends and family. In case you’d like to purchase Buddha figurines and other religious items, this shopping district will cater to all your needs. Historically, the shops have been present since the 16th Century. You can also find a selection of art galleries and bookshops here.
Teramachi Kyogoku Shopping District
Website: Teramachi Kyogoku Shopping District
10. Kyoto BAL
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by BAL on Monday, February 22, 2021
First opened in 1970, the Kyoto BAL is also located in Downtown and offers a great selection of apparel, accessories, souvenirs and lifestyle products. This shopping center is incredibly spacious and offers plenty of unique brand concepts that are unseen anywhere. This shopping center is a conglomerate of hand-picked domestic and foreign brands.
Kyoto BAL
Website: Kyoto BAL
Kyoto is truly a shopaholic's heaven
Kyoto is the hotspot of shopping, indulgence, and lifestyle. We recommend that you travel light as you will need all the space you can manage to bring all your amazing finds back home.
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