Japan Farmers Markets

My shimin nouen spot! This post first appeared on March 5, 2018. The links have been updated and checked; however, if you happen to know of other options, please do let me know in the comments below. I'd be very happy to add them to the list! -JB I'm often asked if I know how people can find a little spot of their own to grow something in Japan. This post offers a variety of links to help people get started on their hunt. Shimin Nouen (Community Gardens) Shimin nouen  (community gardens) and  taiken nouen  (experience farms) are a great way to get a little garden, get involved with the community here, and have some tasty fun, too.  Shimin nouen  tend to be run by local governments - cities, prefectures, or towns - and are scattered about the area. There will be rules about managing the plot, possibly about what materials (organic or not) can be used, pets, children, and possibly even times of access. Terms of use may be limited to two or three years in popular locatio

Smoked umeboshi from Nara at the Ebisu Marche! Welcome to the most farmers-markety weekend of the month! There is really no shortage of awesome markets to visit this weekend, so perhaps take an extra bag with you. Better yet, head out both days to one of these lovely spots and see what seasonal delights you might find! Koenji Farmers Market Saturday, March 16* Spotted a handful of years ago while riding the Chuo Line,  this little market  is still going strong. A circle of red awnings in front of the  Za-Koenji Public Theatre  marks the spot where friendly folks with good food and interesting stories await. *A wee bit of a best guess here as they haven't updated  their blog  yet. Do check before making the trip over there. I haven't been wrong yet about the date, but there is always a first time for everything. 11am - 6pm Map Oiso Farmers Market Sunday, March 17 This little gem of a community shindig is one of the best things going outside of the Earth Day Marke

Wending my way through Kichijoji's delightful Harmonica Yokocho Market. A charming set of markets on this weekend for your shopping and dining pleasure. Peruse the tables at the ever wonderful Market of the Sun to see what delights this early spring day might bring or head on over to Hills Marche to see what goodies are in store. There is no shortage of fun to be had and treats to be found. Market of the Sun Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10 It's hard to believe this 'new' market is already five years old!  Market of the Sun (a.k.a. Taiyo Marche)  professes to be one of the largest, and it is certainly a good one. A short walk from Tsukiji Market and its wonderful surrounds, this market is worth a visit for its lovely selection of foodly and crafty items that rivals the goodies found at the UNU Market. 10am to 4pm Step out of Kachidoke Station at Exits A4a or A4b and look for the tents. Kamakura Farmers Market Every day This market i

Iyoshi Cola at the UNU Market. March is already rip-roaring along and the markets are hopping! It's hard to believe that ume blossoms are here and nearly done, and the sakura buds are looking pretty fat and sassy even in these chill winds. Potatoes are in and pea vines reaching for the sky. Farmers and gardeners are eyeballing their space and debating the merits of this or that variety, this or that new technique. Don't miss the chance to venture out to one of these great markets and see what wonders of the season you can find! Market of the Sun Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10 It's hard to believe this 'new' market is already five years old!  Market of the Sun (a.k.a. Taiyo Marche)  professes to be one of the largest, and it is certainly a good one. A short walk from Tsukiji Market and its wonderful surrounds, this market is worth a visit for its lovely selection of foodly and crafty items that rivals the goodies found at the UNU Market. 10