Wajima Morning Market
A historic market offering local crafts, fresh seafood, and a glimpse into traditional Japanese commerce, resiliently adapting after recent challenges...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Market buzz and fresh goods
Wajima Morning Market
Best Time
Market buzz and fresh goods
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic market offering local crafts, fresh seafood, and a glimpse into traditional Japanese commerce, resiliently adapting after recent challenges.
"The Wajima Morning Market is a unique and interesting experience with friendly vendors and delicious local products."
Check Market Status First
Confirm operating status and location before visiting due to earthquake impacts. :informationdeskperson:
Beware of Food-Snatching Hawks
Eat in designated areas or indoors to protect your food from opportunistic birds. :eagle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Local Crafts and Lacquerware
Stalls along Asaichi Dori
Discover unique Wajima lacquerware and handmade crafts, a testament to the region's artistry.
Fresh Seafood and Local Produce
Various stalls
Sample grilled seafood and browse a vibrant selection of local vegetables and processed marine products.
Traveling Wajima Morning Market
Kanazawa Kanaiwa Port (temporary)
Experience a taste of the market's spirit at its temporary relocation, offering a chance to support vendors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Market Status Post-Earthquake
Navigating the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Market Status First
Confirm operating status and location before visiting due to earthquake impacts. +1 :informationdeskperson:
Beware of Food-Snatching Hawks
Eat in designated areas or indoors to protect your food from opportunistic birds. :eagle:
Ask for 'Extras'
While prices are firm, vendors might offer small extras if you ask politely. :moneybag:
Support Local Vendors
Purchasing goods directly helps the community rebuild and thrive.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Market Status First
Confirm operating status and location before visiting due to earthquake impacts. +1 :informationdeskperson:
Beware of Food-Snatching Hawks
Eat in designated areas or indoors to protect your food from opportunistic birds. :eagle:
Ask for 'Extras'
While prices are firm, vendors might offer small extras if you ask politely. :moneybag:
Support Local Vendors
Purchasing goods directly helps the community rebuild and thrive.
Explore Beyond the Main Street
Wander off the main Asaichi Dori for hidden gems and local interactions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Wajima Morning Market for its unique local products, friendly vendors, and the vibrant atmosphere. The opportunity to grill fresh seafood on-site is a memorable experience. However, recent earthquake impacts have led to reduced operations and temporary relocations, which can affect the full market experience. +1
"Stopping by the Wajima Morning Market was a great decision during our Noto trip. The vendors were all very nice and we found a lot of interesting and delicious items sold at the market."
Criselda Cabusas
"My family and I joined the Wajima Go day trip through Hokutetsu. Wajima Morning Market is our first stop. It is very unique and interesting. Most of the vendors sell processed seafood and products rather than fresh food. You will notice there’s a lot of females running the business. The tour guide told us you don’t usually get to negotiate with the price, but it’s better (or okay) to ask for “extras.” For example, you pay ¥1000 for seaweed. You can ask “can I also have X for free”? Hope you get good deals here 😀"
Chari Huang
"When I came here, out of the entire street, there were only 5 shops that was open. I don't know why the shops were not open at that time. (I came here on a Friday)
I found this shop that was selling a variety of food, from beef sushi to pizzas. I ended up having the pork bun and it was good in my opinion.
PS - I wouldn't recommend eating on the street, as there are hawks watching over and they will snatch your food in a blink of an eye. Just eat in a closed area."
Nicholas Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is located along Asaichi Dori in central Wajima. If you're driving, parking is available at the Asaichi Parking lot a couple of streets away. For those arriving by public transport, check local bus routes from Wajima Station. Note that the market's operational status and location may vary post-earthquake, so confirm details beforehand.
Yes, there is a designated Asaichi Parking lot located a few streets away from the market. Staff are available to guide travelers to the market from the parking area.
Yes, it's possible to visit as part of a day trip, though it requires careful planning. Some tours, like the 'Wajima Go' day trip, include the market as a stop. Be sure to factor in travel time to and from Kanazawa.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Wajima Morning Market is generally free to enter. You only pay for the goods you wish to purchase from the vendors.
The market typically operates from 8 AM until noon. However, due to recent events, it's crucial to verify current operating hours and any temporary locations.
Historically, the market has been open daily. However, post-earthquake, operational days and locations can change. It's best to check for the most up-to-date information.
It's advisable to carry cash, as many smaller vendors may not accept credit cards. While some stalls might, cash is generally preferred for a smoother transaction. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🛍️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a wide array of goods including local vegetables, processed seafood, handmade crafts, accessories, pottery, and the famous Wajima lacquerware.
Yes, there's often a charcoal corner where you can purchase seafood and grill it on-site to enjoy immediately. It's a unique and fun experience! :fire:
Many visitors report that the vendors are very friendly and welcoming, often greeting people with smiles.
While direct price negotiation might not be common, some visitors suggest it's okay to politely ask for 'extras' when making a purchase. :gift_heart:
The Wajima Morning Market boasts a history of over 1,000 years, making it one of Japan's oldest and most significant morning markets.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss the opportunity to try freshly grilled seafood, local produce, and perhaps some unique items like beef sushi or pizzas from specialized stalls. The market also features seasonal specialties like oysters during festivals.
Yes, besides the on-site grilling of seafood, some stalls offer ready-to-eat items like pork buns. However, be mindful of eating outdoors due to hawks.
This is a temporary market event where vendors gather in different locations, such as Kanazawa Kanaiwa Port, to continue their trade after the earthquake's impact on the original site.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the stalls, the colorful array of local produce, and the interactions between vendors and shoppers.
Generally, photography is welcomed, but always be respectful of vendors and shoppers. Ask permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
The early morning hours, when the market is setting up and the light is soft, can be ideal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The on-site grilling of seafood can be a fun, interactive activity for older kids. 💰 Budget Travelers
For a budget-friendly meal, consider purchasing seafood to grill yourself, which is often more economical than eating at a restaurant. ✈️ Day-Trippers from Kanazawa
Prioritize your visit to the market within its operating hours (typically until noon) and confirm its current operational status and location due to recent events. +1 :bullettrain:Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Resilience of Wajima Morning Market
+1 Many stalls and buildings were destroyed by the quake and subsequent fires, leaving a profound impact on the local community and its vibrant commerce. The market was not just a place for trade but a cultural hub, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Despite the immense challenges, the spirit of the market endures. Vendors have organized 'Traveling Wajima Morning Market' events, temporarily relocating to places like Kanazawa Kanaiwa Port to continue their livelihoods and offer their unique products.
This resilience showcases the determination of the Wajima community to rebuild and preserve their traditions, offering visitors a chance to support their recovery efforts. What to Buy: Wajima's Treasures
You'll find a variety of items, from delicate bowls and trays to more elaborate decorative pieces. Beyond lacquerware, the market is a fantastic place to discover fresh seafood and local produce. Many vendors specialize in processed marine products, offering unique flavors of the Noto Peninsula.
+1A Culinary Adventure at Asa Ichi
Beyond grilled seafood, you can find a variety of prepared foods, such as pork buns and even more adventurous options like beef sushi or pizzas from specialized stalls.
Remember the advice to eat in enclosed areas to avoid hawks snatching your food! 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit