Japanese creative markets can only be described as "uncontrollable" for souvenir and stationery enthusiasts.
Visiting creative markets in Japan is a must. These markets showcase the Japanese craftsmanship and aesthetic sense, which is truly breathtaking. If you plan to include any markets in your itinerary, be sure to note their specific schedules, as Japanese markets are held at fixed times. If you love souvenirs or Japanese culture, you're bound to find many treasures here. Each handmade booth has its own unique style, guaranteeing you’ll want to buy everything in sight. Klook has handpicked six creative markets in Japan for all the souvenir lovers out there —don’t miss them when you pass by.
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01 | Kyoto: Hyakumanben Chion-in Handmade Market
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- Market in Full Swing.
Currently the largest market in Kyoto, the Hyakumanben Chion-in Handmade Market is located within the serene grounds of Chion-in Temple. In addition to handmade pottery, jewelry, clothing, baked goods, and wooden items, you can also enjoy freshly brewed coffee and street food—making it a highly enjoyable place to explore.
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- Handmade Pottery.
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- Handmade Bread.
Address: 103 Tanaka-monmae-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Time: 8:00–16:00 on the 15th of every month (held even on rainy days)
Transportation:
1. From Kyoto Station: Take city bus No. 206 or 17 and get off at “Hyakumanben”
2. From Shijo-Kawaramachi: Take city bus No. 201, 31, 17, or 3 and get off at “Hyakumanben”
3. A 10-minute walk from Demachiyanagi
02 | Kyoto: Umekoji Handmade Market
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- Image Source: Tezukuri-ichi.com.
Compared to the Hyakumanben Chion-in Handmade Market, the Umekoji Handmade Market offers more spacious grounds and a more comfortable browsing experience. The variety of booths is also very diverse. If you’re in Kyoto but miss the Chion-in market, this one is a great alternative.
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- Handmade Bread. Image Source: Kaami0?0?Chimuni0? Diary
Address: EVENT Plaza, Umekoji Park Nana-joguchi, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
Dates: 1st Saturday of every month (closed in January and May)
Time: 09:00–16:00
Read More: Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera Undergoing Three-Year Renovation: Here Are Other “Must-Visit Spots” in Kyoto You Should Explore
03 | Tokyo: Tsukudo-ya Creative Market
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- A Market Held Inside a Shrine.
The Tsukudo-ya Creative Market, held within the grounds of “Kishibojin Shrine” and “Otori Shrine,” is one of Tokyo’s most classic handmade markets. It takes place regularly on the first Sunday of each month. The quality and originality of the stalls are exceptionally high, and the bags and clothing you can find here are truly unique—you won’t have to worry about fashion duplicates.
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- Cute Handmade Pillow.
Location: 3-15-20 Tsukudo-ya, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, within “Kishibojin Shrine” and “Otori Shrine” grounds
Time: 09:00–16:00
Read more: A Must-Visit for Art Lovers! 9 “Tokyo Art Sanctuaries” You Can’t Miss!
04 | Tokyo: Harajuku Flea Market
Friends who love secondhand clothing must visit Harajuku Flea Market, where you’ll find 500 stalls selling all kinds of handmade goods, clothes, and food — you’re sure to find something you love here.
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- A Harajuku Flea Market selling a large selection of secondhand clothes.
Address: 1-1 Yoyogi-Kamizonocho, Shibuya City
Time: Held irregularly
Getting there: Take the Chiyoda Line to Meiji-jingumae Station, exit 1b, and walk five minutes
05 | Tokyo: Tokyo Flea Market
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- Tokyo’s Largest Market: Tokyo Flea Market. Image source: Official Facebook Page.
With over 200 stalls, Tokyo Flea Market is one of the largest and most famous creative markets in Tokyo. Due to its massive scale, the market is organized by theme, such as handmade, vintage, and food sections, so you won’t end up wandering aimlessly. However, “Tokyo Flea Market” is held only once a year in both the Kanto and Kansai regions, so if you miss this year, you’ll have to wait until next. Also, unlike other free markets, Tokyo Flea Market charges an entrance fee of 500 yen.
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- Secondhand tableware. Image source: Official Facebook Page.
Address: 4-31-1 Tamagawa, Chofu City, Tokyo
Time: Twice a year, once in Kansai and once in Kanto. For exact dates, check the Facebook Page.
Getting there: Take the Keio Line to Keio-Tamagawa Station
06 | Tokyo: Farmer’s Market
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- This market sells a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Image source: Official Facebook Page .
Located in Shibuya, the “Farmer’s Market” is held regularly every Saturday and Sunday at the plaza in front of the United Nations University. As the name suggests, it sells fresh produce from small farms, coffee beans, tea, and more. You can also browse groceries and clothing, and if you’re hungry, grab some snacks from the small food stalls on-site.
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- Japan’s creative markets also feature a wide range of handmade crafts to explore. Image source: Official Facebook Page.
Address: Plaza in front of the United Nations University (5-53-70 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo)
Time: Every Saturday and Sunday, 10:00–16:00
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