As the birthplace of Japan’s historical culture, Kyoto is the ultimate playground for those who appreciate the finer things in life. 

From 796 to 1868, Kyoto was home to Japan’s Imperial family. Evidently, it motivated the best craftsmen to provide services for the Emperor, military nobles and the elites. The deep rooted respect and discipline for art, design and functionality was fostered in Kyoto for centuries forward. Leading to 74 categories of traditional crafts that still exist in Kyoto today, instilled in a nation that religiously practice customs including: flower arrangements, seasonal festivals and tea ceremonies. While objects and accessories are needed as part of these ingrained rituals, the city continues to cultivate refinement while infusing the old and new to progress with modern times.

This list showcases some of the coolest shops travelers can find in Kyoto, many were launched decades ago, by artisans that were cream of the crop. Today, they might either still be servicing the Imperial family, but the difference is, you can also indulge and enjoy high quality items that breathe history as well as elegant precision.

 

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Saluk is another exquisite store where travelers can browse through crafts made by local artists. A celebration of stylish metalware, Saluk is where its creator Kanoko Kai sells and showcases her expertise from training at SEIKADO – Kyoto’s 185-year-old silverware company. Known for sleek tin items, the store also offers workshops teaching students how to make tin sake cups. In addition, Saluk is also a gallery of earthy ceramics, chopstick stands, folded fans…and much more.

Kyo folding fans, or Kyo sensu, also make stunning souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home. Mostly produced in Kyoto, folding fans have a long been viewed as coveted artworks that display symbolic designs and patterns, often adorned with gold or silver lacquer. The bamboo used to make the fans are meticulously collected, lightweight and flexible for fanning. In Japanese culture, they’re often used for ceremonies, special occasions, or even on a hot summer day. The best place to purchase a magnificent folding fan is at Hakuchikudo founded in 1718, it features collections that are handmade by expert artisans.

Since historical times, kimono was always beyond simply a piece of dazzling Japanese garment. The traditional wrapped-front robe with square leaves was is the national dress of the country, worn with an obi (wide sash,) accompanied by zōri sandals and tabi socks. Dating back to the Heian period, kimono was embraced by Japan’s elites and later worn by geisha and meiko. Today, citizens still wear kimono for special occasions, especially during festivals and ceremonies.

There are many boutiques where travelers can try on kimono, purchase them or opt for vintage pieces that have been worn and cleaned. For the most luxurious kimonos in Kyoto, head over to Chiso’s flagship store which was launched in 1555 when the brand made detailed clerical vestments for monks. Chiso’s handcrafted process elevates its brand to haut couture status, as it often creates bespoke garments with ravishing limited editions.

Kojima Shōten goes back 220 years, when the lantern-making company lit up ancient temples and shrines throughout Japan. A distinctive element of Kyoto lanterns is “jibari-style,” or affixing, rather than wound bone style. With Kojima Shōten’s traditional approach, it requires thicker bamboo and paper, which needs longer time to produce each lantern. But the end result is strength in durability and stronger in texture. Kojima Shōten is one of three workshops in Kyoto that continues jibari-style, making it a luminescent brand to look out for.