February Farmers Markets in Tokyo

Scrumptious strawberries at the Roppongi Farmers Market!

February is my favorite month for a whole bundle of reasons, not the least of which is the fact that the weather usually gets colder. (I know, I know. Who likes winter? Me, that's who!) I usually venture home to America in February, so exactly how it turns out in Tokyo I don't know, but I usually hear reports of snow, cold winds, and more. I also often hear reports of miso making, as this is the season. I hope to make my own this year when I return in March, but we'll see what the kitchen cards hold in store.

Meanwhile, there are plenty of good markets on in the city (read about a few here in my recent feature article in Metropolis Magazine) to find homemade miso fixings, seasonal fruits, greens, and other glorious vegetables. So head on out while I'm carousing about the Madison Farmer's Market and perhaps even visiting Detroit's famous Eastern Market. Oh, the fun to be had!

Ebisu Market

Sunday, February 3rd
Sunday, February 17th

11am to 5pm

A nice sized market held on the terrace just in front of Ebisu Garden Place that will always be special to me for introducing me to dried natto and tea seedpods.

Map

Gyre Market

Saturday,  February 9th and Sunday, February 10th

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
Saturday, February 16th and Sunday, February 17th
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!

Koenji Farmer's Market
Saturday, February 16th
A new market I spotted while riding the train on a Saturday morning into the city center. That circle of red awnings in front of the Za-Koenji Public Theatre could only mean one thing! Sure enough, I found a small group of area growers and producers, and the bounty surely continues!
11am - 5pm
Map

UN University Night Market

Saturday, February 16th

A unique event in the heart of the city that a vegetable loving geek like me wouldn't miss for the world. What better way to get the healthy vitamins and minerals you need to sustain an evening of karaoke and izakaya hopping?

5pm - 8pm

Earth Day Market

Sunday, February 24th

I could go wax on forever about how great this market is and how important it is for the future of Japanese farming. Instead, I'll just insist that folks go and see for themselves what great things the market and these innovative growers are doing.

10am to 4pm, Rain or shine!

Map

UN University Market

Every Saturday and Sunday

A massive weekend affair that is great fun and features a variety of fruits and vegetables and prepared products from all over Japan. Plus, there's a most excellent selection of food trucks offering everything from salad to zingy curry to roast chicken to falafel!

10am to 4pm

Map

Roppongi Market

Every Saturday

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

Yurakucho Farmer's Market
Every Saturday and Sunday
Smaller than the UNU Market, Yurakacho features a particular region of Japan each week along with an excellent selection of seasonal fruit and vegetables. Growers from nearby Chiba, Kamakura, and Saitama are also on hand to help fill the larder.
11am to 5pm
Directions: Turn left out of Yurakacho 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!