551 Horai Butaman
Big steamed pork buns; they're refrigerated, so eat them the same or next day.
Tax-freeFrom November 1, it switches to a 'refund system.' You pay tax-inclusive prices in stores and get the tax back after a customs check at the airport when you leave. Be sure to bring your passport.
SouvenirsYuba and tofu sweets, chirimen goods and Kyoto pickles
Shopping tipMany shops close around 5 p.m.; browse in the morning before the afternoon crowds.
MainJR Sagano Line: Kyoto Sta. to Saga-Arashiyama in about 15 min; Hankyu and Randen also reach Arashiyama
BusCity buses reach Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji; from Ryoan-ji, the Randen Kitano Line is easiest to Arashiyama
PassThe bamboo grove is quiet before 8 a.m.
Shopping streets & markets in Kyoto: Arashiyama & Kinkaku-ji, Osaka · 1
Instead of tax being deducted at the store, you now pay including tax and get it refunded later.
Minimum spend and refund methods can vary by store, so ask before paying.
6 gifts to bring home from Osaka and where to buy them · Kyoto: Arashiyama & Kinkaku-ji first
Big steamed pork buns; they're refrigerated, so eat them the same or next day.
Fluffy cheesecake fresh from the oven; a bell rings each time a batch is baked.
Cinnamon-scented rice-dough sweets, either baked or as 'nama yatsuhashi' wrapped around bean paste.
Matcha and matcha sweets from Uji, south of Kyoto.
A Nara linen shop over 300 years old; its kitchen cloths and household goods are popular.
Cookies, chocolates and puddings born in the port city of Kobe.
Most are also sold at souvenir shops in airports and major stations. Check hours and stock via the Google Maps links.