Tatehana Wharf Morning Market, Aomori

Morning markets don’t come much bigger than this! Stretching nearly 800 meters and offering visitors over 300 stalls to browse, the Tatehana Wharf Morning Market has something for everyone. Considered the largest morning market in Japan, it’s worth the early start, with activities kicking off from dawn.

Visitors to the Hachinohe area of northern Japan may have heard of the annual Nebuta (lantern floats) Festival and stunning coastline, but the local market is a slice of everyday life that keeps many coming back for more. It is a relatively recent addition to the city, but has fast become a weekly destination, attracting between 20,000–30,000 people at peak hour. Running from March to December, it also has some special market days held on public holidays which are worth looking out for.

Smoky, savory skewers sizzling over the grill

The market may have fresh fish, vegetables and fruit to take home, but the primary attraction for many is the food available to eat on the spot. Eating and walking is pretty frowned upon in Japan apart from specific events such as festivals, and this food market is one such exception. Despite the early hour, visitors can enjoy bowls of steaming local ramen, grilled seasonal fish, fried chicken and countless other popular dishes. Some more unusual options include the summer dish of hoya (also known as sea pineapple) and Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) or Senbei-jiru (rice crackers dipped in soup) which are favorites in the region. For a fresher snack, the area is known for producing sweet and crisp apples and pears, so be sure to pick up a few of these for your travels.

Senbei-jiru (Photo courtesy of Amazing Aomori)

Unlike the more traditional markets of Japan, this example has some more western twists such as local bakery stands with fresh bread and pastries as well as coffee stalls. Dotted nearby are tables and chairs set out for friends and families to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, with live performances from local bands providing a festival feel to enjoy along with the food. Souvenirs are easy to pick up too, with knife-makers, antiques and some more unusual items with an eco-friendly twist, like recycled fishing nets turned into body scrubbers.

Locals and visitors alike fill the market streets (Photo courtesy of Amazing Aomori)

The unexpected is the signature style of the Tatehana Wharf Morning Market, though, and this is personified in the unusual Ika Don mascot. The giant squid is dressed smartly and can be spotted handing out business cards—however, he is an unofficial mascot, appearing at random times possibly with his wife and daughter to greet visitors. If you’re lucky enough to be handed a larger-than-life business card, be sure to treasure it as they’re quite the souvenir. Another fun keepsake is the 100-yen market map postcard available from the information tent, something which may serve as a better reminder of your trip once your delicious snacks have long gone.

Tanesashi Coast (Photo courtesy of Amazing Aomori)

The market is a great way to start the day, but there’s plenty to do locally afterwards as well. For a quiet stroll, the nearby town of Sannohe borders Iwate and is one of the longest-inhabited parts of Japan, with residents as far back as the Jomon period, meaning history buffs can explore archaeological sites and museums. Those looking to enjoy nature can explore the Tanesashi Coast during the day and even consider another early morning to enjoy the stunning sunrise at the Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge on Tsugaru Fujimi Lake. For a lively evening, be sure to explore Hachinohe’s downtown bars once the sun has set. For those heading north, the purpose-built Wa Rasse museum in Aomori City is a fantastic way to enter the world of the annual Nebuta Festival if you don’t manage to visit during its summer schedule.

It may seem like an early start and some of the dishes may seem like a challenge first thing, but once your feet hit Hachinohe’s market street you’ll be slurping and snacking like a local and will no doubt be back for more.

For more details, contact DMC Japan to discuss ideas, locations and rates.
Contact Us