Kisaiya Market Uwajima
A historic, 700m covered shopping arcade in Uwajima, offering a glimpse into local life and unique riverfront shops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More lively atmosphere
Kisaiya Market Uwajima
Best Time
More lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, 700m covered shopping arcade in Uwajima, offering a glimpse into local life and unique riverfront shops.
"It's a long, covered arcade, a common sight in the countryside, offering a glimpse into local life."
🚶♀️ Stroll the full 700m
The arcade is a complex of several streets, so explore its entire length for the full experience. 🚶
⏰ Check shop hours
Many shops close by 6 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid a 'ghost town' feel. :clock1:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
3.4 · 106 reviews
Type
Shopping Mall
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Arcade
Main covered shopping streets
A 700-meter long arcade complex, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese local shopping.
Local Eateries
Various shops within the arcade
Discover local delicacies and tea shops for a taste of Uwajima's culinary scene.
Unique Riverfront Shops
Shops straddling the river
Witness shops built over the river, a unique architectural sight that adds to the market's charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Explore the Full Stretch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll the full 700m
The arcade is a complex of several streets, so explore its entire length for the full experience. 🚶
⏰ Check shop hours
Many shops close by 6 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid a 'ghost town' feel. :clock1:
🍜 Sample local treats
Look for local delicacies and tea shops for an authentic taste of Uwajima. 🍜
☀️ Beat the summer heat
The covered arcade offers a cool escape from the summer sun. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll the full 700m
The arcade is a complex of several streets, so explore its entire length for the full experience. 🚶
⏰ Check shop hours
Many shops close by 6 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid a 'ghost town' feel. :clock1:
🍜 Sample local treats
Look for local delicacies and tea shops for an authentic taste of Uwajima. 🍜
☀️ Beat the summer heat
The covered arcade offers a cool escape from the summer sun. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Kisaiya Market to be a typical, long covered arcade common in Japanese countryside cities. While it can feel a bit lifeless and deserted, especially on Sundays or evenings, many shops are indeed open. The market's historical significance and unique features, like shops built over the river, are noted, though the decline in foot traffic is a common observation. +2
"It was a big, long arcade.
You often see these kinds of things in the countryside.
But it still felt a bit lifeless.
Maybe it was because I went during the day on a Sunday.
There were people shopping at the local shopping mall.
When I go shopping at the supermarket,
I go back and forth, thinking,
Oh, I'll make this dish, so I'll buy some chicken!
It's certainly a pain if the butcher, fishmonger, and greengrocer are all fixed.
The arcade also has a "grocery" zone.
Would it be better if there were separate zones for "clothing" and "eating out," etc.?
I guess that's not possible, since individuals have rights..."
Makoto Takahashi
"At first glance, it looks like the shops are closed, but the shops are open. Naturally, the atmosphere is good and it's cool in the summer. Occasionally, there are outdoor stalls."
豊津商店
"This shopping arcade stretches from near Uwajima Station. It consists of the Ebisucho, Shimbashi Gintengai, and Fukuromachi shopping streets, and is around 700 metres long.
It's been about 25 years since I first came here, and I remember being impressed by the wide streets lined with shops, the gorgeous decorations, and the number of people coming and going, and realizing that such a lively place could exist even in a regional city.
However, with each visit since then, the shopping arcade seems to be getting a little deserted. There are now many vacant stores, and above all, there are very few people walking around.
The decline of shopping streets in front of stations is a common phenomenon everywhere, but it's still sad to see."
Naka Hiro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kisaiya Market is conveniently located and stretches from near Uwajima Station. You can easily walk to it after arriving by train. It's a central part of the city's layout. :train2:
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, being near the station suggests there might be public parking facilities available in the vicinity. It's best to check local signage upon arrival. 🚗
The most enjoyable way to explore Kisaiya Market is on foot. The arcade is about 700 meters long and is a complex of several connected shopping streets. 🚶
Covered arcades in Japan are generally designed with accessibility in mind. However, some older sections or individual shop entrances might have small steps. It's advisable to proceed with caution. ♿
Yes, as it's close to Uwajima Station, you can easily access local buses and trains to explore other parts of Uwajima and the surrounding Ehime Prefecture. 🚌
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kisaiya Market is a public shopping arcade, and there is no admission fee to enter or walk through it. 🎟️
The market itself is always accessible, but individual shop hours vary. Many shops tend to close around 6 PM, and it can feel deserted later in the evening. :clock1:
Weekends, especially Sunday afternoons, can sometimes feel quieter. Weekday afternoons are often recommended for a more lively atmosphere. 📅
While you can walk through the arcade at night, most shops will be closed, giving it a deserted feel. It's best visited during daytime or early evening hours. 🌙
No, all sections of the Kisaiya Market arcade complex are free to enter and explore. :moneywithwings:
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a variety of local shops, including grocery stores, butchers, fishmongers, clothing stores, and eateries. It's a traditional local shopping street. :shopping_bags:
Yes, there are local eateries and tea shops where you can sample regional delicacies. Look out for small restaurants and cafes within the arcade. 🍜
While it's primarily a local market, you might find unique local crafts or food items that make great souvenirs. It's worth browsing. 🎁
Look for local specialties and fresh produce. The market offers a chance to experience authentic regional flavors. 🍦
It's advisable to carry some cash, as smaller, local shops in traditional arcades may primarily operate on a cash basis. :moneywithwings:
📸 📸 Photography
The long, covered arcade itself offers great leading lines. Also, look for the unique shops built over the river for interesting shots. :camerawithflash:
Yes, photography is generally allowed in public areas like shopping arcades. However, always be respectful and ask permission before photographing individuals or inside private shops. 📷
Late afternoon can offer softer light, and if you catch it when it's a bit busier, you'll have more life in your shots. Early morning can be very quiet. 🌅
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near public spaces. It's best to avoid flying drones within the market area to comply with local regulations. :noentrysign:
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm or a wide-angle lens would be useful for capturing the length of the arcade and the surrounding environment. A prime lens can be good for low-light shots inside shops. :camerawithflash:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit