The Gion and Kawaramachi areas form the heart of Kyoto. While they present a glamorous facade as popular tourist destinations, stepping into an alley or walking a little further south reveals the authentic daily lives supporting local residents and international students.
This time, we delve into a hidden treasure trove of authentic Asian ingredients. We’ll explore an Asian supermarket that has become indispensable for long-term residents and locals eager to recreate genuine Asian flavors at home.
Asia Mart Kyoto
📍 Address: Cosmo st Kawaramachi 106, 468 Zaimokucho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
‘Asia Mart Kyoto’ is an authentic Asian supermarket conveniently located near Keihan’s Kiyomizu-Gojo and Shichijo Stations, easily accessible by bicycle or bus from the Gion area. Situated on the first floor of an apartment building, its exterior is unassuming, but stepping inside feels like entering a local Southeast Asian market. It’s a hidden gem with a loyal following, often whispered in reviews as ‘a secret spot you don’t really want to tell anyone about.’
Particularly noteworthy is the overwhelming lineup of authentic Vietnamese spices and seasonings that are difficult to find in typical Japanese supermarkets. You’ll find a wide array of items like Nuoc Mam (fish sauce), various chili sauces, and fresh herbs such as lemongrass. Moreover, it covers daily necessities like frozen foods, fresh vegetables, fruits, and even rice, making it incredibly convenient to get everything you need for home cooking in a single visit.
Furthermore, many regulars unanimously praise the excellent cost-performance of their ‘meat’ selection. You can find essential cuts of meat and specific parts for local dishes at incredibly affordable prices, leading many international students to visit once or twice a week for bulk shopping. And above all, the incredibly kind and friendly service from the owner couple, who run the store, creates a warm community atmosphere that makes you want to visit again and again, banishing any feeling of being an outsider.
【Tips】Smart Shopping at Asian Supermarkets: How to Avoid Mistakes!
In supermarkets stocked with international ingredients, you’ll encounter unique pricing and packaging that differ from typical Japanese supermarkets. Here are some smart shopping tips to help long-term international students and locals eager to try Asian cuisine avoid common pitfalls.
First, aim for ‘large-capacity meat packs.’ In Vietnamese and other Asian cuisines, large cuts of meat or bones are frequently used for dishes like braised pork belly (Thit Kho Tau) and making pho broth. At local supermarkets offering good quality meat at low prices, buying meat in bulk, portioning it at home, and freezing it is the most cost-effective way to save on daily food expenses.
Next, let’s talk about choosing seasonings. Even sauces that look similar can have various uses, from mild and sweet to intensely spicy Sriracha. Since owners are often friendly and helpful, the best approach is to ask directly, ‘I want to make this dish; which spice would be best?’ They might share authentic local recipes or point out hidden popular products tucked away on the shelves.
Summary: Experience Authentic Daily Life in the Gion & Kawaramachi Area
When you find yourself wanting to feel the vibrancy of Asia amidst Kyoto’s historic cityscape, or when you crave the kick of authentic spices in your daily meals, ‘Asia Mart Kyoto’ is the perfect choice. It’s a valuable spot where you can glimpse not just the tourist side, but also the ‘real local life’ of Kyoto, a city where people of diverse nationalities coexist.
Just a short trip from Gion will lead you to incredibly affordable authentic ingredients that will significantly enhance your daily life. Why not bring a large eco-bag and embark on a deep dive into shopping this weekend?
