TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Omicho Market is a representative kitchen in the center of Kanazawa City, beloved by locals and tourists alike as "Kanazawa's Kitchen." Originating as a commercial district dating back to the Edo period, it is now a lively place lined with shops selling fresh fish, produce, dried goods, prepared foods, Japanese sweets, souvenirs, and restaurants. One of its greatest attractions is the opportunity to easily sample fresh seafood from the waters off the coast of the Hokuriku region, including Kanazawa Port, Noto, and Toyama, as well as local and Kaga vegetables and Kanazawa's regional cuisine. The atmosphere of the market's arcade and shopping streets, the lively exchanges in the stores, and live sales demonstrations are also tourist attractions.
Highlights
- Fresh seafood: A wide variety of seasonal seafood is available, including snow crab, yellowtail, firefly squid, sea urchin, and salmon roe. You can enjoy the taste of the season in seafood bowls and sushi.
- Food and snacks: There are many food stalls selling crab skewers, fried foods, dried fish from Noto, sweets, and Japanese confectioneries.
- Local ingredients and specialties: A specialty store for Kaga vegetables (Kaga lotus root, Uchiki red-skinned sweet chestnut pumpkin, etc.), pickles, miso, dried goods, etc.
- Restaurants and sushi restaurants: There are many popular seafood bowl, sushi, and set meal restaurants both inside and outside the market, and sometimes there are long lines.
- In-store demonstrations and services: Enjoy interacting with the store owner through demonstrations of fish filleting and cooking, tasting services, and sales by weight.
- Omicho Ichibakan (facility): This facility is the face of the market and contains a commercial facility and tourist information center, allowing you to get around efficiently (facility names are subject to change).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Kanazawa Station - 15-20 minutes walk (approximately 1.2km).
- Bus: From Kanazawa Station, take the "Castle Town Kanazawa Loop Bus" or Hokuriku Railway Bus and get off at the "Musashi-gatsuji/Omicho Market" or "Omicho Market Exit" bus stop.
- By car: As it is in the city center, you will need to use the paid parking lots in the surrounding area. However, as the parking lots tend to fill up during peak hours, it is more convenient to use public transportation.
- Walking distance: Within walking distance from the Korinbo/Katamachi area and Kenrokuen Garden (approximately 5-10 minutes from Korinbo).
- Access: As it is in the city center, the roads are flat and it is easy to get around from the tourist spots, but it is a good idea to check your sense of direction before heading there.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short tour and food tour: 30 to 60 minutes (a light meal at one shop, just enough to enjoy the atmosphere).
- Dining and shopping: 1.5 to 2 hours (including waiting in line at popular stores).
- If you want to take your time and enjoy shopping and dining: 2-3 hours (comparing food at multiple stores and choosing souvenirs).
Nearby spots
- Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park: Accessible by foot or bus. Kanazawa's most popular tourist destinations.
- Higashi Chaya District: A charming street where traditional teahouse architecture remains, within walking distance.
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: A popular spot for contemporary art. Accessible by foot or bus.
- Korinbo/Katamachi: Shopping, cafes, and downtown areas. You can stop by while shopping.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded on weekends, national holidays, consecutive holidays, and tourist seasons (Golden Week, summer vacation, New Year's). Popular stores tend to have long lines, so it's best to go early (right after opening) for a smoother experience.
- Opening hours: Each store is different, with some opening early in the morning and others closing early in the afternoon. If there is a store you want to visit, be sure to check the opening hours in advance.
- Payment: Smaller stores may only accept cash. Although an increasing number of stores are accepting credit cards and electronic money, it is a good idea to carry a small amount of cash with you.
- Tasting and photography: Please ask a store staff member before tasting. When taking photos inside or in front of a store, it is good manners to ask permission if the products or staff are in the photo.
- Hygiene/take-out: When purchasing fresh food, be sure to keep it cool (using ice packs or refrigerated delivery) or ask the store to add ice to it to maintain freshness. Be careful in the summer as food is particularly susceptible to spoilage.
- Safety at footing and when crowded: The market has narrow passages and wet areas. Please be careful when bringing strollers or large luggage as they can be difficult to move around.
- Closed days/Closed days: Closed days vary by store, so please check in advance for information on market holidays and opening hours during the New Year holidays.
