Me staring in adoration at a display of local veg in Kanawa’s Omicho Market.
November is a month of bright skies, vivid leaves, and cooler temperatures. As farmers markets open again, get out and enjoy the community, the fresh produce, and the fun. Do pay attention, though, to posted precautions, and take care of yourself and your loved ones by wearing your mask (nose and mouth, thanks!), washing your hands, and being aware of social distancing protocols.
Market of the Sun
A lovely and absolutely hopping market in the heart of Tokyo. Held the second weekend of each month, the Market of the Sun offers a range of fresh and prepared foods from near and far(ish). Do check their Facebook page before heading out to make sure it is still on and plan to wear a mask over your nose and mouth while there.
Saturday, November 13 and Sunday, November 14
10am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Kachidoki, Exit 4a, 4b
Shishimai Marche
A new-to-me market in Oiso, the Shishimai Marche is held in front of a ramen shop in Oiso that looks to be one of the loveliest homegrown efforts going on this stretch of the Shonan Coast. I’ve not been yet, but their Instagram is enticing, and word from two trusted sources is that it is worth the early morning bike ride. I’m hoping to make it this weekend and get back to you all with a full report!
Saturday, November 13
8am to 10:45am
Koenji Farmers Market
A cute local market set up in front of Zakoenji Theatre the third Saturday of each month featuring farmers, bakers, picklers, and a few other foodly creatives. Check out the website for details.
Saturday, November 20
11am – 5pm
Oiso Farmers Market
A charming and lively market at the Oiso Port featuring local growers, producers, and artisans. Even though case numbers are down to nearly non-existent, market organizers remain cautious. Nothing is scheduled yet for this month, but check their Facebook page for updates.
Yokohama Kitanaka Marche
A fantastic market in the city opening for the first time in a number of months. Be sure to check their Facebook page to see which vendors will be on hand on which days and head on down. Note they are in a new location, Kitanaka Brick and White. For access, see their website.
Saturday, November 20 and Sunday, November 21
10am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Bashamichi, Exit 2a
Kichijoji Harmonica Yokocho Asaichi
This market remains closed. Check their Facebook page for updates. When it reopens, you’ll find an early morning gem well worth the effort.
Kamakura Farmers Market
Established in 1933, the market features a different group of farmers each day. All grow Kamakura Brand vegetables, a brand established to delineate the uniqueness and terroir of Kamakura’s produce. Check out their website, visit to discover which group(s) of farmers might be your favorite, then make it a regular journey. My advice? Other than getting vaccinated, wear your mask, bring your own shopping bag, and get ready for a feast!
Kamakura Renbai
Everyday
8am until sold out
Ebisu/Yebisu Marche
Open every Sunday, the market is a charming cluster of growers, producers, and artisans gathered in the square just across from Ebisu Station. Be sure to look for Brod, a new Nordic baker on the scene whose work looks darn amazing.
Every Sunday
11am to 5pm
Nearest Station: Ebisu, Exit via East Gate for Yebisu Garden Place
Farmers Market at UNU
Up and running at its usual location in front of the United Nations’ University, this market is easily one of Tokyo’s best. Open every Saturday and Sunday, it presents a fantastic array of growers, producers, and artisans as well as a very tempting set of food trucks. Themes and events help vary the action. Check their website for updates and make this a go-to destination for delicious urban outdoor fun.
Every Saturday and Sunday
10am to 4pm
Nearest Station: Omotesando, Exit B2
Hills Marche
Another excellent weekly market at Ark Hills Karajan Square featuring a compendium of local growers, producers, and artisans. It is worth noting that one of Kokobunji’s farmers is on hand each Saturday! Support your Tokyo farmer whenever possible! Check their Facebook page for updates and vendor listings.
Every Saturday
10am to 2pm
Nearest Station: Roppongi Itchome, Exit 3
Yurakucho Marche/Kotsukaikan Marche
Held every weekend, this market is a mix of regular vendors from Tokyo and near Tokyo as well as vendors who match the theme for the day. The Kotsukaikan is home to the city’s best selection of prefectural antenna shops, so the market builds on that with regional and prefectural food themes. It is a ridiculous amount of fun. As always, check their Facebook page for updates and vendor listings.
Every Saturday and Sunday
11:30am to 5:30pm
Nearest Station: Yurakucho, Chuo Exit on the Ginza Side
Know of a market and it’s not on the list? Give me a shout, and I’ll add it.
