Yanagibashi Central Market
Nagoya's vibrant 'Kitchen,' a historic market brimming with fresh seafood, local produce, and authentic eateries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See peak activity
Yanagibashi Central Market
Best Time
See peak activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nagoya's vibrant 'Kitchen,' a historic market brimming with fresh seafood, local produce, and authentic eateries.
"A local market seafood market that's not exactly catered to tourist."
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Selection
Many stalls close by late morning, so aim for an early start to catch the freshest seafood and full market buzz.
🍣 Taste the Freshness
Don't miss the chance to try incredibly fresh sushi and sashimi at the market's eateries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Seafood Stalls
Main market aisles
Witness an incredible array of fresh fish and seafood, a true feast for the eyes.
Early Morning Action
Throughout the market
Experience the market's energy as vendors prepare and sell their daily catch.
Local Eateries
Market periphery and inside
Savor incredibly fresh sushi, sashimi, and tempura at small, authentic eateries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Freshest Finds
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Selection
Many stalls close by late morning, so aim for an early start to catch the freshest seafood and full market buzz.
🍣 Taste the Freshness
Don't miss the chance to try incredibly fresh sushi and sashimi at the market's eateries.
🍓 Sample Local Produce
Beyond seafood, you might find delicious local fruits like sweet, juicy strawberries.
💰 Great Value Meals
Enjoy delicious, high-quality meals at surprisingly affordable prices.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Selection
Many stalls close by late morning, so aim for an early start to catch the freshest seafood and full market buzz.
🍣 Taste the Freshness
Don't miss the chance to try incredibly fresh sushi and sashimi at the market's eateries.
🍓 Sample Local Produce
Beyond seafood, you might find delicious local fruits like sweet, juicy strawberries.
💰 Great Value Meals
Enjoy delicious, high-quality meals at surprisingly affordable prices.
🗣️ Basic Japanese Helpful
While some vendors may speak limited English, a few basic Japanese phrases can enhance interactions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Yanagibashi Central Market offers an authentic, non-touristy glimpse into Nagoya's daily life, particularly for seafood lovers. While some visitors found specific food stalls disappointing in preparation, the overall consensus praises the freshness of ingredients and the great value for money. Arriving early is crucial to experience the market at its most vibrant and to secure the best catches and meals.
"A local market seafood market that's not exactly catered to tourist.
Arrived at 8+ on a weekday morning and it wasn't crowded, although about half the stalls were closing. But it means you don't get in the way of as many tradesmen.
Seafood available on sale there was different from what I see back home and the stalls that still remained open provided for a short but interesting sight.
Overall a small-medium sized market that is more localised and non-touristy.
The following is the review of a food stall I ate at in the market. I was unable to find its listing on Google Maps, but the attached photo shows the shop name in Japanese. The staff spoke Japanese and what sounded like Vietnamese.
The tuna (both minced and sliced) were fresh, but the slices that came with the rice were poorly sliced, resulting in tattered slices and frequent tough strips of tissue that was hard to chew through.
The sliced otoro was good, as it should be, but it had a slightly fish aftertaste and was initially served without wasabi.
Would probably not revisit this stall."
Levin
"If in Nagoya dont miss the fishmarket for a japanese breakfast (opens super early when the fishermen bring in the freshly caught fish) or an early lunch. Got here a bit late but this small sushi restaurant did not dissapoint. Very fresh (obviously) and friendly."
P R
"I bought strawberries from this market. It was soooooo delicious, juicy and sweet.
For Don, it was a premium dish that you had to try. The staff was nice
Prices of food were great. Not expensive!"
จิรัชฌา จิตพรพิพัฒน์
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yanagibashi Central Market is easily accessible by public transport. It's a short walk from JR Nagoya Station or the subway's Kokusai Center Station. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from Nagoya Station, which takes about 10-15 minutes.
While there might be some paid parking lots nearby, it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to the market's central location and potential parking limitations.
The best way to explore is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking around the stalls and potentially standing while eating.
The market can be crowded and has uneven surfaces, which may pose challenges for wheelchair users. It's best to visit during less busy hours if accessibility is a concern.
Yes, you can take a taxi directly to Yanagibashi Central Market. It's a well-known landmark, so most taxi drivers will know the location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees to enter Yanagibashi Central Market. It's a public market, and you can wander through the stalls freely.
The market generally opens very early, around 6 AM, and many stalls begin closing by late morning, around 10 AM or 11 AM. Some eateries may stay open later for lunch. It's best to arrive early for the full experience.
Yes, the market is open on Saturdays, but it can be quite busy. Some vendors might have slightly different hours on weekends, but the early morning is still the most active time.
The market is typically open daily, but it's always a good idea to check for any unexpected closures, especially around public holidays.
While primarily a food market, you might find some local food products or small kitchenware items that could serve as souvenirs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find an incredible variety of fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, grilled fish, and tempura. There are also stalls selling fruits, vegetables, and other local produce.
Absolutely! The market is renowned for its incredibly fresh sushi and sashimi, often prepared right in front of you. Many visitors rave about the quality.
Generally, prices are considered great value for the quality. You can enjoy premium dishes and fresh ingredients without breaking the bank.
Some stalls offer English menus, especially those catering to tourists. However, it's not guaranteed everywhere, so having a translation app or pointing to what you want can be helpful.
Yes, the market is a perfect spot for an early Japanese breakfast, especially if you arrive when the fishermen bring in their fresh catch.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always respectful to ask vendors before taking close-up shots of their products or them. Be mindful of the busy working environment.
Capture the vibrant displays of fresh seafood, the bustling activity of vendors, and the authentic local atmosphere. The early morning light can also be great for photos.
The main seafood aisles with their colorful displays are very photogenic. Also, the small eateries preparing food offer great action shots.
Early morning offers the best light and the most dynamic activity, though it can be crowded. Mid-morning can still offer good shots as some stalls are winding down.
It's best to avoid using flash, especially when photographing vendors or their products, as it can be disruptive. Natural light is usually sufficient and more atmospheric.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🍣 Food Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Nagoya's Culinary Heart
Visitors can expect a lively and sometimes chaotic atmosphere, especially in the early morning hours. The market is a working environment, so observing the interactions between vendors and customers provides a unique cultural insight. While some stalls may have limited English, the vibrant displays of seafood and produce speak a universal language. The market is also surrounded by numerous small eateries that serve incredibly fresh dishes, making it a prime spot for an early breakfast or lunch.
For travelers, Yanagibashi offers a chance to see a different side of Nagoya, away from the typical tourist trails. It’s a place to immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of the city and appreciate the dedication to fresh, quality ingredients that defines Japanese cuisine. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply curious about local culture, the market provides a memorable and sensory-rich experience.
Savoring the Flavors: Dining at the Market
One highly recommended experience is trying a sashimi or sushi donburi. The freshness is unparalleled, with melt-in-your-mouth tuna and salmon being common highlights. Another popular choice is tempura, known for its light, crispy batter encasing fresh prawns and seasonal vegetables. The quality of the food is exceptional, often prepared with skill and care by vendors who are passionate about their craft.
Beyond the main seafood dishes, you might also find stalls selling other local delicacies or even fresh fruits like exceptionally sweet strawberries. The prices are generally very reasonable, offering excellent value for the premium quality of the ingredients. It’s advisable to arrive early, as some of the most popular eateries can get busy, and stalls may start to sell out of their freshest items as the morning progresses.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit