Tokyo Farmers Markets: December 8th and 9th

Miyamotoyama Farm at Tokyo's Earth Day Market

Cold winds and clear skies swing us toward the New Year, and I strongly encourage you to take advantage of this stunning weather to hit the farmers markets. As the end of the month nears, farmers and brewers and jammers and weavers and canners alike begin turning their attention to family and friends and celebrating the coming year. Markets close down to give time to those gatherings, so don't wait a moment to go on out and pick up gifts that will more than satisfy those on your list. (I might also suggest hauling home a foodly treasure or two for yourself, too.) Seriously, anyone can go to a department store. Bust out of that usual holiday grind and get your shopping done in festive sunshine!

Gyre Market

Saturday,  December 8th and Sunday, December 9th

A gem of a market hidden away in one of Tokyo's high-end shopping districts offering seasonal favorites in a way that feels homey yet rather boutique-y.

11am to 5pm

Map

Nippori Farmer's Market
Sunday, December 9th
10am to 5pm
Another great market in the city found with a little help from friends, this one is sure to not disappoint. My first visit was wonderful despite cold temperatures and a smattering of rain. Plus, Tohoku growers are on hand sharing their best-of-the-best, so come on out to be part of the recovery and get something good to eat.
No map, but just head out the east exit and look for the green awnings!

UN University Market

Every Saturday and Sunday until December 23rd

A massive weekend affair that is great fun and features a variety of fruits and vegetables and prepared products from all over Japan. Plus, the curry I had during my last visit from one of the vendors was plate-licking good. (I refrained, but only just.)

10am to 4pm

Map

Roppongi Market

Every Saturday in December (one of the few exceptions this month!)

A first visit to this market was well worth the trek for the number of organic growers and getting to meet a Tokyo farmer from just down the tracks in Kokobunji!

10am to 2pm

Map

Kinshicho Market

Every Saturday and Sunday until December 23rd

Another nice market not far from the sumo stadium in Ryogoku it's worth casing out for the neighborhood as well as the vendors.

11am to 5pm

Map

Yurakucho Farmer's Market
Every Saturday and Sunday until December 23rd
Another great market somewhere in size between Kichijoji and the United Nation's University Farmer's Market, it often features from a particular growing region as well as heaps of farmers and producers from nearby Chiba and Saitama, too.
11am to 5pm
Directions: Turn left out of the station and cross the courtyard toward Tokyo Kouku Keitan. Look for the fun under the overhang!

Know of a market? Give me a shout and we'll add it to the list!