In & Around Kanazawa : A Local City Guide created by our Staff
Omicho Ichiba Market
When you think of visiting a famous fish market in Japan, a country surrounded by the ocean and brimming with fresh catches, the Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo or the some of the famous markets in Kyoto and Osaka may come to mind. We would like to introduce a market that is ranked as one of the top seafood markets in Japan, but does not have as much renown yet internationally. Omicho Ichiba Market in Kanazawa is a hidden treasure on Japan’s west coast, and a definite must on any Japan travel bucket-list. Considered not only one of Kanazawa’s top attractions and sightseeing spots, it is a must for any seafood lover craving fresh fish and crabs from the Sea of Japan!
Omicho Ichiba Market is the largest fresh food market in Kanazawa city. Established during the Edo period, more than 280 years ago, it boasts over 150 shops. Colorful and lively, the market is also known as "Kanazawa's Kitchen", as it is the best place to explore the food and drink culture of the city.
From fresh crab and fish to shrimp and scallops, you'll find everything you can imagine fresh from the Sea of Japan! The winter months starting in November will bring in some of the most highly sought-after seafood in Japan. Many booths will also have food samples to taste test as well as selling ready-to-go snacks to eat as you browse.
The market is not just full of booths and food stalls. Inside, you will find some of the most delicious restaurants serving seafood in Kanazawa city. For those that enjoy them fresh, there are plenty of restaurants with sushi and chirashi-zushi. There are also many varieties of steamed, broiled, or grilled fish as well as many shops offering the famous Kanazawa crabs.
You will also find many other Kanazawa foods in the market place. Many booths also sell fresh and delicious vegetables and fruits unique to the region. There are also many varieties of Japanese sake for sale in the liquor shops, as Kanazawa rice is famous for the sweet taste, which is suited to the making of liquor.
Omicho Ichiba Market is very conveniently located. Only about a 15 minute walk from the main Kanazawa station, you can also choose to take a short bus ride from the station, getting off at "Musashigatsuji" bus stop. It is also near Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden, so it's the perfect spot for a bite to eat after sightseeing.
Most shops and booths will open beginning around 9:00, and will be closed for business around 17:30. If you're looking to buy fresh seafood, we definitely recommend heading to the market during the early morning. For those interested in the various restaurants, most will open around 11:00 to customers, so be sure to get in line to get the freshest of the catch!
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