Omicho Market, in the heart of Kanazawa, is known as the “Kitchen of Kanazawa” due to its wide variety of fresh seafood, produce, and local delicacies. The market has been a staple of the city for over 280 years and continues to attract all.
You can expect to find rows of vendors selling everything from oysters and sea urchin to traditional Japanese sweets and sake.
The market is also home to small restaurants and food stalls where you can try local specialties like kaisen-don (seafood rice bowl) and jibuni (a type of hot pot).
Despite its popularity, Omicho Market maintains a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the market and chatting with the vendors, many of whom have been working there for generations.
Whether you’re a foodie looking to sample some of Kanazawa’s best cuisine or simply looking to pick up some staples for dinner, Omicho Market is not to be missed.
Location and Hours
The market is situated just a few blocks away from Kanazawa Castle and Kenroku-en Garden, two of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
The market is open every day except for Wednesdays, and it is best to visit in the morning when the fishmongers and other vendors are setting up their stalls for the day.
The market opens at 9:00 am and closes at 5:00 pm, but many of the vendors start to pack up their goods around 3:00 pm. Visitors should plan to arrive early to have the best selection of fresh seafood and other local delicacies.
Omicho Market is easy to reach by public transportation. You can take the Kanazawa Loop Bus to the Omicho Market bus stop, or they can take a taxi from the Kanazawa train station. There is also a parking lot nearby for those who are driving.
What to Expect at Omicho Market
Omicho Market in Kanazawa is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. With its wide variety of fresh seafood, local produce, tea and sweets, as well as kitchenware and souvenirs, there’s Something to interest all at this bustling market.
Fresh Seafood Section
The fresh seafood section is one of the main attractions at Omicho Market. You can find a wide variety of fish, shellfish, and other seafood caught fresh from the Sea of Japan. Some of the most popular seafood items include crab, squid, and sashimi-grade tuna. You can also enjoy fresh seafood dishes at the many restaurants and food stalls throughout the market.
Local Produce Section
The local produce section at Omicho Market is another must-see. Here, you can find a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the surrounding Ishikawa prefecture.
Some of the most popular items include Ishikawa’s famous Kaga vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and onions, as well as local fruits like persimmons and grapes.
Tea and Sweets Section
For those with a sweet tooth, the tea and sweets section at Omicho Market is not to be missed. You can find a wide variety of traditional Japanese sweets, such as mochi and wagashi, as well as locally made chocolates and other confections. There are also many tea shops where you can sample and purchase different types of Japanese tea.
Kitchenware and Souvenir Section
The kitchenware and souvenir section at Omicho Market is a great place to find unique and authentic omiyage. You can browse a wide variety of traditional Japanese kitchenware, such as pottery and lacquerware, as well as other locally made crafts and souvenirs. There are also many shops selling fresh spices, teas, and other food items that make great gifts.
Food and Drink Recommendations
Omicho Market is a paradise for food lovers. Tourists can find an array of fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and other local delicacies. Here are some food and drink recommendations to try at the market:
Kaisendon
Kaisendon is a must-try dish at Omicho Market. It is a bowl of rice topped with fresh sashimi of kinds, such as tuna, salmon, squid, and shrimp. The sashimi is served raw and sliced thinly, and the rice is usually seasoned with vinegar. The combination of fresh seafood and vinegared rice creates a perfect balance of flavors. You can find many stalls selling kaisendon at the market, but one of the best is Kaisendon Nakamura.
Kaga-Yasai Salad
Kaga-Yasai Salad is a salad made from fresh local vegetables grown in the Kaga region. The vegetables are carefully selected for their quality and taste, and the salad is usually dressed with a light vinaigrette. The salad is a refreshing and healthy option for those who want to take a break from seafood. You can find Kaga-Yasai Salad at stalls in the market, but one of the best is Yasai no Oka.
Kaga-Bocha Tea
Kaga-Bocha Tea is a type of roasted green tea that is unique to the Kaga region. The tea has a rich aroma and a nutty flavor, and it is often served with Japanese sweets. You can try Kaga-Bocha Tea at the tea shops in the market, such as Marujuen and Hakuichi.
History of Omicho Market
Omicho Market is a bustling and vibrant marketplace in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan. The market has been a staple of the city for over 280 years, and has a rich history that has helped shape the local culture and economy.
The market was first established in the early 18th century during the Edo period, when Kanazawa was a thriving castle town. At the time, the market was a small collection of vendors selling fresh seafood and vegetables to the local residents.
Over time, the market grew and expanded, attracting more and more customers from across the region. As the market grew, it became a hub for local commerce and culture, and played an important role in the development of Kanazawa as a city.
Today, Omicho Market is one of the most popular destinations in Kanazawa, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The market is known for its wide variety of fresh seafood, including crab, squid, and tuna, as well as its selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables.
Despite its long history, Omicho Market has continued to evolve and adapt to changing times. In recent years, the market has embraced new technologies and marketing strategies, while still maintaining its traditional charm and character.
Overall, Omicho Market is a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of Kanazawa’s people, and a destination for anyone interested in experiencing the rich culture and history of this beautiful city.
