Morning markets, known as “asaichi”, are very popular in Japan, and Takayama has one of the country’s largest. The Miyagawa Market, situated along the Miyagawa river and in front of the Jinya (an old shogunate outpost) has its origins in the Edo period and has been at the centre of the city’s culinary and social life for over 300 years. The market takes place every day from early in the morning until midday, and is the best place for residents to pick up some local groceries and for visitors to purchase some interesting souvenirs.
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The Miyagawa market consists of over 60 stalls and stretches across a 350 meter path from Kajibashi bridge to Yayoibashi bridge. The market is so large it spreads out over two areas - the main Miyagawa market and the Jinya-mae Market, a smaller market specialising more in local farm produce than crafts. In fact, the market was originally started as a way for farmers to sell sericulture goods like mulberry leaves. Even today, setting up a stall at the market is restricted only to farmers in order to support the local agricultural communities.
![Miyagawa Morning Market]()
Miyagawa Morning Market
![Miyagawa Morning Market]()
Miyagawa Morning Market
In front of Takayama Jinya many vendors gather every morning to proudly display their locally grown produce at the Jinya-mae market. The Hida area is famous for its food produce, mostly its roots vegetables which grow very well in the mountainous climate. If you are staying in accommodation that has cooking facilities, you can find lots of ingredients in the Jinya-mae area farmer’s market with stores selling wild flowers, organic spinach and homemade pickles. The friendly obasan, older women, are happy to chat about their handmade crafts such as origami or sarubobo dolls, which make for unique souvenirs.
![Miyagawa Morning Market]()
Miyagawa Morning Market
The Miyagawa Market has a fascinating array of goods to look through from organic dried popcorn to pepper holders made from Hida wood. The vendors give out samples of Takayama honey or dried Kabu (red turnip) chips to cheery crowds of locals and tourists alike. The Miyagawa Market is a great spot for breakfast or an early lunch, so come hungry as there are countless amazing food to excite any appetite. Wabisuke, a restaurant with a morning stall in front of it, sells succulent bites of Hida beef and local craft beer. There are a few seating areas but most people enjoy snacking on kibi dango whilst strolling down the riverside.
![Miyagawa Morning Market]()
Miyagawa Morning Market
In the spring, carp streamers float over the Miyagawa river and this popular open-air market can get even more crowded. The atmosphere is vibrant with many people interacting, sharing food and learning more about the local culture. There are some fascinating crafts, all locally made and tied to Japanese culture - specifically the traditions of the Hida area. We were lucky to meet Kosaka, a calligraphy artist who frequently partakes in the Miyagawa market crafting personal messages at the customer's request in traditional Japanese calligraphy. From the impressive array of fresh produce to the vibrant atmosphere, the Miyagawa market is not to be missed.
![Miyagawa Morning Market]()
Miyagawa Morning Market
- Miyagawa Morning Market
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- Gifu Pref. Takayamashi Shimosannomachi
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Hostel Murasaki Ryokan Miyagawa
高山市本町3丁目23 Takayama
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