What other travelers are saying about Semmaizuke Honke Ofuji (Pickle Shop), Kyoto
This was our favorite stand. Very fresh, light and unique amongst the deep fried options. Our favorite was the pickled squash and they recommended the daikon and greens combination. They even have a couple seats in the back that are peaceful for you to eat.
Semmaizuke Honke Ofuji is a traditional Japanese pickle shop (tsukemono store) located in Kyoto, specializing in senmmaizuke - thin sliced turnip pickles layered with kombu seaweed. This historic establishment has been serving authentic Kyoto pickles for generations and is situated in central Kyoto near popular tourist areas.
Semmaizuke Honke Ofuji typically operates from morning to evening, usually around 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though hours may vary seasonally. The shop may be closed on certain weekdays or national holidays, so visitors should check current operating hours before visiting this traditional Kyoto pickle shop.
Semmaizuke Honke Ofuji specializes in senmmaizuke (thousand-sheet pickles) made from thinly sliced turnips layered with kombu seaweed, along with various other traditional Kyoto tsukemono including pickled vegetables, seasonal specialties, and gift sets perfect for souvenirs from Japan.
Prices at Semmaizuke Honke Ofuji vary depending on the type and size of pickle products, typically ranging from a few hundred to several thousand yen. While they offer beautifully packaged gift sets, international shipping policies may be limited due to food regulations, so visitors should inquire directly about overseas delivery options.
Semmaizuke Honke Ofuji welcomes tourists and offers an authentic Japanese cultural experience. While staff may have limited English, the visual displays make selection easy. Payment methods typically include cash, and some locations may accept credit cards, though visitors should bring Japanese yen to ensure smooth transactions at this traditional Kyoto shop.
Traditional Kyoto’s pickles, seasonal vegetables items and not too salty, good taste. Recommend to try eating with steamed rice, porridge and “Ochazuke”.
I bought some pickles as souvenirs and was very disappointed. Everyone, please be careful of expiration dates.
On December 13th, I bought my favorite senmaizuke pickles and shiso daikon radish, as well as two bags of chopped red turnips that the store clerk recommended.
I checked the expiration dates the following night when I got home and was shocked.
One of the recommended red turnips expired on December 15th, just two days after I purchased it. The other expired on December 17th.
On the other hand, both of the pickles I chose had more than a week until their expiration date (December 22nd and 27th).
I couldn't give someone something with such a short expiration date, so I reluctantly gave away the shiso daikon radish I had bought for myself and consumed the red turnips at home.
When I think about it, it's strange that I didn't check the expiration date when I purchased them at a store that sells souvenirs for others, especially since the expiration date was so close.
I was also disappointed that they sold me the same product but with different expiration dates.
Even in souvenir shops like convenience stores in train stations, the cashier always checks the date, even for things like chocolate that only lasts for six months.
Especially since this is a store that sells perishable goods, surely they should have a manual for checking expiration dates before paying?
By the way, the recommended red turnip actually tasted pretty average.
I learned that when store clerks say "recommendation," it doesn't mean they're really recommending the product, but is simply a cliche to get you to buy products they want to clear out.
It's a shame, as it was a favorite store that holds many memories from my school trip.
