11 Unique Kyoto Souvenirs You Will Wish You Bought (2025)

Are you planning your Kyoto trip and wondering what Kyoto souvenirs are actually worth that extra check-in luggage charges?

Don’t worry; I have got your back.

Hello there! I am Sam, your go-to travel bestie who is here to make your trip to Japan way less stressful and a whole lot more fun. I am all about helping first-time travellers (like you!) make smart, fun decisions without wasting time or yen!

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Kyoto is full of stunning temples, lantern-lit streets, delicious food, and matcha everything.

But when it comes to souvenirs, it is easy to fall into the trap of buying something mass-produced that you will never use again.

Sounds familiar? (I am guilty as charged as well lol)

So whether you are shopping for yourself or grabbing gifts for friends or family members, here are 11 truly unique Kyoto souvenirs to buy.

Like the kind you will actually be excited to unwrap when you get home!

Let’s get into it!

TLDR: Best Kyoto Souvenirs to Get

1. Kyo Baum Matcha Baumkuchen
2. Yojiya Aburatorigami (Oil-Blotting Papers)
3. Otabe Nama Yatsuhashi
4. Kyo-Kumihimo Crafts by Showen Kumihimo
5. Eirakuya Tenugui Hand Towels
6. Gion-Style Kanzashi Hairpins
7. Kyo-Inkan (Personal Seal Stamps)
8. Goshuincho Temple Stamp Books
9. Yamada-Matsu Nioi Bukuro (Kyoto Perfume Sachets)
10. Kyo-Satsuma Ceramic Chopstick Rests by Touan
11. Omamori (Lucky Charms from Kyoto Shrines & Temples)

1. Kyo Baum Matcha Baumkuchen

One of the top Kyoto souvenirs with a unique Japanese twist is none other than Kyo Baum Matcha Baumkuchen!

Each baumkuchen is delicately baked by skilled artisans using traditional methods combined with classic Kyoto ingredients.

Made with Uji matcha and Sencha tea powders and soy milk, the green and cream-coloured layered cake has a moist, soft texture along with the luxurious aroma of green tea.

The matcha Baumkuchen is conveniently packaged for travel, making it an ideal gift to bring back for friends and family who appreciate Japanese sweets!

Where to Buy

You can find Kyo Baum at several locations throughout Kyoto, particularly in popular tourist areas, including Kiyomizuzaka, Arashiyama, and Kyoto Tower.

I bought mine from the Kyo Baum store located near Kyoto’s Kiyomizudera Temple!

2. Yojiya Aburatorigami (Oil-Blotting Papers)

Founded in Kyoto back in 1904, Yojiya is a renowned cosmetics brand selling make-up items and skin-care-related products.

Their most iconic product is aburatorigami, or oil-blotting facial paper, which is now a must-get Kyoto souvenir.

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The facial paper was first introduced in 1920 and quickly became popular with geisha, stage actors, and film performers for their ability to absorb excess facial oil without disturbing makeup.

Now featuring Yojiya’s striking logo of a woman’s face, the lightweight and palm-sized aburatorigami makes a practical souvenir from Kyoto that your T-zone and your bestie will thank you for!

Buying tip: Single packs are also available for travellers seeking a quick purchase.

Where to Buy

You can purchase Yojiya aburatorigami at their various shops throughout Kyoto, including their Kiyomizu Sannenzaka store and their easy-to-find Kyoto Station location.

3. Otabe Nama Yatsuhashi

Another Kyoto food souvenir that you don’t want to miss is Nama Yatsuhashi.

And one of the most well-known makers of these Japanese sweets is Otabe!

Named after a famous bridge in Kyoto, these soft, triangular sweets are made from glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet bean paste (anko).

The traditional Nama Yatsuhashi has a cinnamon flavour, but Otabe offers various delicious options:

• Matcha (green tea)
• Strawberry
• Chocolate
• Sesame
• Seasonal flavours

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Eating tips: You can enjoy these sweets on its own or pair them with your favourite hojicha for a delightful snack 😉

Since each piece is individually wrapped, Nama Yatsuhashi is the perfect souvenir to be shared with foodie friends and family back home!

Travel tip: Check out my must-try snacks from Japan article if you’re looking for even more tasty ideas!

Where to Buy

You can easily find Otabe Nama Yatsuhashi at various locations throughout Kyoto, such as at:

• Their main stores near Kyoto Station and in the Gion district
• Department stores
• Most souvenir shops

4. Kyo-Kumihimo Crafts by Showen Kumihimo

Looking for something with cultural significance that you can wear every day?

Well, one of the best Kyoto souvenir accessories is the Kyo-Kumihimo crafts.

Translating to “braided cord” in English, kumihimo is one of Japan’s oldest traditional crafts.

This unique weaving technique has been an integral part of Japanese culture for centuries, where it had/has been used in making:

• samurai’s helmets and armour,
• hair accessories, and
• kimono’s obi-jime (a decorative, cord-like kimono accessory).

In Kyoto, Showen Kumihimo specialises in creating these beautifully braided crafts using both traditional methods and modern adaptations.

Some of the popular items include:

• straps
• hair accessories
• bag charms
• glasses cords

Available in vibrant colours and intricate patterns, each piece showcases detailed Japanese craftsmanship, making Kyo-Kumihimo a truly special souvenir that proudly says, “Straight from Kyoto!”

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Fun fact: You will often see “Kyo” used in the names of traditional crafts, foods, or shops from Kyoto to signify their Kyoto origin or style.

Where to Buy

You can purchase authentic Showen Kumihimo bracelets at their workshop in Kyoto, where you might even witness the braiding process. 

Kyoto Asahiya also stocks a lovely selection of these bracelets, with prices ranging from 1500 yen to 5000 yen (US$11 to US$35) depending on complexity and materials.

5. Eirakuya Tenugui Hand Towels

The next memorable Kyoto souvenir that made to the list is Tenugui hand towels.

Measured approximately 35cm by 90cm, this practical souvenir typically features stunning dyed patterns that reflect Japanese artistry.

And Eirakuya is no newcomer to this traditional craft.

Currently run by the 14th generation of the founding family (started back in the early 1600s!), Eirakuya offers beautiful and one-of-a-kind seasonal tenugui designs.

The patterns often showcase Kyoto’s traditional events and the twenty-four seasons, giving you a piece of Japanese cultural heritage to take home!

Aside from using it as hand towel, tenugui can also be used as:

• handkerchief,
• book cover,
• box lunch wrapper,
• bandana, or
• simply home interior decor.

Where to Buy

You can purchase Eirakuya tenugui at their main shop in downtown Kyoto, their outlet at Kyoto Station, or through their online store.

The Kyoto Station shop is particularly convenient for travellers and offers exclusive designs not available elsewhere!

6. Gion-Style Kanzashi Hairpins

If you are looking for a souvenir that instantly screams “Kyoto!”, then you can consider getting kanzashi hairpins.

Crafted using the Tsumami Zaiku technique, Gion-style kanzashi hairpins are elegant traditional Japanese hair ornaments that go very well with kimono.

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These decorative pieces are especially popular in Kyoto’s famous Gion district, where maiko (apprentice geisha) wear them as part of their elaborate hairstyles.

The delicate art of Tsumami Kanzashi involves pinching small squares of silk fabric to create petal shapes that are assembled into stunning floral designs.

Authentic Gion-style kanzashi often feature seasonal motifs with vibrant colours and intricate details.

For example, you can find hairpins adorned with cherry blossoms for spring, hydrangeas for summer, and autumn leaves for fall.

Here are some of the unique types of Tsumami Kanzashi:

• Hana Kanzashi: Flower-shaped ornaments
• Bira Bira: Designs with dangling components
• Tama Kanzashi: Ball-shaped ornaments

Buying tips: Look for quality craftsmanship with secure attachments and vibrant colours. Authentic pieces may even show minor imperfections to highlight their handcrafted nature!

Where to Buy

You can purchase genuine Tsumami Kanzashi hairpins at speciality shops in Kyoto’s Gion district or traditional establishments like Nijusan-ya.

7. Kyo-Inkan (Personal Seal Stamps)

Looking for a memorable personalised Kyoto souvenir for dear self or loved one back home?

Well, you will be happy to discover Kyo-Inkan.

Instead of signing with signatures, Japanese people use personal stamps called “hanko” or “inkan” to sign important documents. 

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And stamps made in Kyoto, Kyo-Inkan, are especially prized for their craftsmanship and cultural significance.

Depending on your preference and budget, you can choose either Japanese boxwood, black buffalo horn, cow’s horn or titanium for the hanko.

The experienced artisan will then carve your translated name into meaningful kanji characters, making it completely personalised to you.

How to use hanko: Just press it onto a red ink pad called “shuniku” and then stamp it onto paper!

Where to Buy

You can purchase authentic Kyo-Inkan at specialist shops throughout Kyoto, like Akinoya Hanko in Kawaramachi.

Many stores even offer same-day carving, so you can stick around and watch your personal seal come to life!

8. Goshuincho Temple Stamp Books

If you want a more meaningful way to keep track of the temples and shrines you have visited in Kyoto (besides just flipping through your phone photos), then you won’t regret picking up a Goshuincho stamp book to collect goshuin early in your trip!

Traditionally, pilgrims were given goshuin as proof of them offering prayers at the religious sites.

Now, many local worshippers and travellers collect goshuin during temple hopping as a memento of Japan’s culture and tradition.

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Each temple or shrine has its own distinctive goshuin seal and calligraphy design too, making these collections truly one of a kind.

Some even offer seasonal designs, so you collect multiple unique festive motifs that represent that particular season.

A goshuin usually costs between 300 yen to 500 yen (<US$4), but special goshuin like seasonal ones may cost up to 1000 yen (US$7).

As for the Goshuincho stamp book, it can cost anywhere between 3000 yen to 5000 yen (US$21 to $35).

Here are some tips about goshuin collection:

• A goshuincho is considered sacred, so be sure to treat it with care and respect.
• Not every temple and shrine offers goshuin stamp. You can check online before visiting.
• Typically, goshuin is only given during specific hours (usually between 9 am and 4 pm). So be sure to check the temple’s goshuin seal schedule before you go.
• Most temples and shrines only accept cash for goshuin payment so make sure to bring some!
• Get approval from the staff before taking photos or videos of the stamping process.

Where to Buy

You can purchase goshuincho books at major temples and shrines in Kyoto.

Many bookshops in the city centre also stock them, particularly those near popular tourist areas.

9. Yamada-Matsu Nioi Bukuro (Kyoto Perfume Sachets)

Nioi Bukuro is one of the little cutesy Kyoto souvenirs you can get without breaking the bank.

With a rich history of over 1000 years in Japan, these traditional Japanese scent sachets were originally used as perfumes and natural bug repellents.

And the best place to buy some of Kyoto’s finest scent sachets is Yamada-Matsu.

Established in 1790, Yamada-Matsu is known for using high-quality natural materials and traditional craftsmanship to create premium Nioi Bukuro that embodies the elegance of Kyoto.

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Depending on the size and design, a Nioi Bukuro can cost about 880 yen to 1400 yen (about US$6 to $10), whereas a premium one can go up to 2000 yen (US$14).

How to use the sachet: Tuck one into drawers, closets, or storage boxes to gently scent your clothes or accessories. You can also put it in your bag to keep it smelling fresh.

Where to Buy

You can purchase authentic Yamada-Matsu Nioi Bukuro at their official shop in Kyoto near the Kyoto Imperial Palace.

10. Kyo-Satsuma Ceramic Chopstick Rests by Touan

If you are a fan of ceramic wares and want something suitcase-friendly as a souvenir, then the exquisite Kyo-Satsuma ceramic chopstick rests by Touan are a must-get!

A renowned kiln established in 1922, Touan’s skilled artisans create each piece from scratch, showcasing both beauty and functionality in the distinctive Kiyomizu and Kyo ware styles.

What makes these chopstick rests special and worth mentioning is their intricate underglaze designs.

The patterns often feature beautiful seasonal motifs, turning them into tiny pieces of art you can actually use in everyday life.

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Where to Buy

You can purchase these cutesy chopstick rests directly from the Touan store in Nishiki Market.

11. Omamori (Lucky Charms from Kyoto Shrines & Temples)

Another souvenir you can consider getting in Kyoto is the colourful omamori.

These small, beautifully crafted good-luck charms are sold at shrines and temples throughout the city.

Each one carries a prayer or blessing for safe travel, good health, success, protection, or love.

You will find them at iconic Kyoto Instagrammable spots like Fushimi Inari Taisha or Kiyomizudera, and they are often seasonally designed or tied to the temple’s history and spiritual energy.

Extra note: While many visitors buy them as meaningful souvenirs or symbols of cultural appreciation, it is totally okay to skip omamori if it does not align with your personal beliefs.

Where to Buy

You can find omamori at most major temples and shrines across Kyoto, like Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizudera, and Yasaka Shrine.

Each location offers different blessings and designs, so feel free to choose one that matches your wish or travel vibe!

4 Helpful Tips When Buying Kyoto Souvenirs for The First Time

1. Shop at the Brand’s Main Store for Exclusive Designs

Many of Kyoto’s historic souvenir brands, such as Yojiya, Eirakuya, and Showen Kumihimo, have their flagship stores in Kyoto and often carry store-exclusive or seasonal items you won’t find at the airport or in Tokyo.

If you want that limited-edition matcha packaging or a print that only comes out in autumn or spring, hit up the original location in Kyoto!

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2. Look for Items That Are Easy to Pack (or Already Gift-Ready)

Kyoto souvenirs are often beautifully wrapped in washi paper, cloth, or boxes, while some even come pre-wrapped as gifts.

Choose compact, travel-friendly items like blotting papers, chopstick rests, or tenugui that won’t explode in your suitcase or melt by day three, especially when you are early in your 3-week Japan trip or have a long flight back home.

3. Keep the Receipt

If you spend over a certain amount in one store (usually more than 5000 yen or around US$35), you can often shop tax-free in Japan.

Just check with the shop assistants if you’re unsure, and be sure to bring your passport for the tax refund process.

Also, hang on to your receipts just in case something gets damaged or you need to exchange an item (if the shop allows it, of course!).

4. Don’t Delay Popular Souvenirs Shopping Until the Last Minute

Kyoto’s top souvenirs like Otabe yatsuhashi or Yojiya products can and do sell out, especially during busy seasons like spring and autumn.

If you see something you love on Day 1, just grab it (even if it means dragging it through the next 3 cities)!

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Final Thoughts: You Are Now a Certified Kyoto Souvenir Shopper

So there you have it!

Kyoto is full of beautiful things but these 11 unique souvenirs are the real standouts.

They are meaningful, easy to pack, and guaranteed to make you smile long after your trip ends!

So which one are you most excited to bring home? Let me know in the comments!