Tokyo Farmer's Markets: Saturday, June 15th

Seedlings galore at a Matsumoto farmer's market.

Wet, wet, wet. Gray and gray. My umbrella is my new best friend, but I can't say I'm really complaining. It is amazing to see how happy everything is at the farm. The vegetables suddenly seem stronger, taller, greener. As is usual for this time of year they look as though they have something to say. And I might not like it, especially as I approach to harvest. (My imagination is going a bit wild this morning.) I digress. That does mean that tables at markets will begin to groan with the weight of the season. Don't be shy about getting a little damp and heading off to the market!

Nippori Farmer's Market

Saturday, June 15th and Sunday, June 16th

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, June 15th

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, June 15th

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

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!