For “Kyoto connoisseurs,” I highly recommend Kyogoku Iwai for its traditional incense sticks and authentic Japanese antiques!
After a bustling walk through Kyoto’s most famous shopping street Nishiki Market, the first thing you’ll want is to stabilize your senses with a calm ambiance. Kyogoku Iwai is an authentic antiques and incense candle shop that offers interesting cultural goods that capture the essence of traditional Japan, particularly the ancient capital of Kyoto.
Adjacent to Nishiki Market!
A short walk from Kyoto-Kawaramachi station and on the eastern side of the famous Nishiki Market street is the iconic antiques and incense shop known as Kyogoku Iwai. It may be a little difficult to find as there are no English signs, so hopefully the above image can help you out. Personally, I was able to quite literally sniff it out as the smell of aromatic incense is what drew me to it (literally followed my nose!).
Beautiful Designs!
There are many traditional Japanese incense sticks to choose from. On display are countless varieties with free samples that you can “try before you buy.” Kyogoku Iwai also has their own rankings and top 10 bestseller lists which can help narrow down your decision.
In addition to incense sticks, there are plenty more authentic goods on sale such as premium chopsticks, beautifully designed teapots, and decorative Japanese banners with aesthetic artworks and captivating calligraphy. For a taste of authentic Kyoto culture to take back home as a souvenir, look no further than Kyogoku Iwai!
Quality Packaging
A great store for authentic souvenirs indeed, I had purchased five boxes of incense sticks for my good friend in Australia. At just 1000 yen per box for the #2 ranked incense sticks, I’d say that sounds like a solid deal. The quality of the wrapping was quite strong and had a smooth and glossy texture, making it ideal for gift-giving and easy to pack in your luggage!
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