Kyoto’s Toji Flea Market Tour: Discover Treasures with a Local Guide

On the 21st of every month, the grounds of the UNESCO World Heritage Site To-ji Temple transform into a bustling market. Stalls stretch as far as the eye can see—antiques, ceramics, kimono, crafts, and the tempting aromas of street food. Known as the “Kobo-ichi,” this special flea market blends Kyoto’s daily life with its centuries-old traditions. On this tour, a local guide will share the history of To-ji and the origins of the market, while showing you how to enjoy its many highlights.

With more than 1,200 stalls packed into the temple grounds, it feels like stepping into a treasure chest. Antiques, vintage kimono, quirky crafts, and delicious food stalls await, ready to excite all your senses. If you find something that catches your eye, your guide will help you interact with the vendors and even support you in price negotiations.

At Kyoto’s vibrant temple market, uncover hidden gems and bring home your very own treasure.

On the 21st of every month, To-ji Temple transforms into the lively “Kobo-ichi” market, held in honor of Kobo Daishi. Dating back to the Muromachi period, it has grown into one of Kyoto’s largest temple markets, with nearly a thousand stalls offering antiques, ceramics, kimono, crafts, and street food. It’s where history and everyday life merge into a truly unique experience.

Here you’ll find antique dealers with rare art pieces, pottery sellers showcasing Kyoto’s ceramics, kimono stalls, handmade crafts, and countless food stands. Prices range from small affordable trinkets to one-of-a-kind treasures. More than shopping, the real joy of the market is in conversations with vendors and the thrill of discovering hidden gems.

Founded in 794 with the establishment of Kyoto as the capital, To-ji became the headquarters of the Shingon school of Buddhism under its founder, Kobo Daishi (Kukai). Its 55-meter five-story pagoda, the tallest in Japan, is an iconic landmark of Kyoto. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, To-ji combines grand temple architecture and revered Buddhist statues with a living tradition of community gatherings, making it a place where past and present harmoniously meet.

◎ Engilish speaking Local guide
◎ Support with price negotiations and conversations with local shopkeepers.
✕ Personal expenses

10:00 – Meet at Kintetsu To-ji Station
After a brief orientation and an introduction to To-ji Temple and the Kobo-ichi market, we will begin our walk.

10:15 – Arrive at the South Gate of To-ji
Learn about the history and cultural background of the Kobo-ichi flea market.

10:30 – Explore the Market
Stroll through stalls of ceramics, antiques, fine art, and local food. Discover your own hidden treasures while your guide helps with conversations and price negotiations with local shopkeepers.

11:30 – Tour Ends at Keigamon Gate, To-ji
The market continues until around 4:00 pm, so you are welcome to stay and enjoy browsing at your own pace after the tour.