Omicho Market (often called Omicho Ichiba or “Kanazawa’s Kitchen”) is Kanazawa’s premier food market. The market has served as a vital source of seafood, produce, and local specialties for over 300 years, dating back to the Edo Period. This vibrant, covered market is a feast for the senses and a cornerstone of daily life in the city. Whether you’re a food lover, a cultural explorer, or just looking for a uniquely local experience, Omicho Market promises a taste of the region like no other.
Omicho Market consists of a series of covered arcades lined with around 170 stalls and small restaurants. It is especially famous for its wide selection of fresh seafood sourced from the nearby Sea of Japan. Visitors can find a range of seasonal fish, shellfish, crabs, and other marine products, particularly during the winter months when Kanazawa’s seafood is at its peak.
In addition to seafood, the market also offers fruits, vegetables (including local Kaga vegetables), pickles, traditional sweets, sake, and various daily goods. Several small eateries serve donburi (rice bowls) topped with sashimi and other fresh ingredients from the market, making it a popular lunch spot for both locals and tourists. The wide range of food options makes the market a great place to stop in and explore the tastes of Japan.
Explore Kanazawa
Top Attractions
Kenroku-en Garden
One of Japan’s most famous gardens
Kanazawa Castle
Restored samurai castle with gardens, historic walls, and scenic grounds.
Kanazawa Higashi Chaya District
Historic geisha district with teahouses, shops, and Edo-era charm.
Omicho Market
Famous market in the heart of Kanazawa
Oyama Shrine
Unique Western-style Shrine building in Central Kanazawa
Accessing the Omicho Market
The Omicho Market is in the heart of Kanazawa City, only a 15-minute walk from Kanazawa Station, and just a handful of minutes from Kanazawa Castle, and Kenroku-en Gardens.
Where to Stay
Hotel Forza Kanazawa
Highly Recommended
The Hotel Forza Kanazawa comes highly rated, offering some of the best value for money. With spacious rooms, a welcome drink at the on-site bar, and a convenient location, there's few hotels in Kanazawa which offer better value.
Minn Kanazawa
Modern hotel with spacious artistic rooms, that combine western comfort with Japanese flair. Located in central Kanazawa, the Minn Kanazawa makes for a great retreat.
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
The Hotel Nikko Kanazawa is an upscale hotel, offering rooms with stunning city and sea views. Enjoy spacious rooms, and dine at one of Kanazawa's finest restaurants at the on-site restaurant.
Explore more in Ishikawa Prefecture
Kanazawa
City with a rich history, pristine gardens, and a love for Gold.
Kanazawa Castle
Restored samurai castle with gardens, historic walls, and scenic grounds.
Kanazawa Higashi Chaya District
Historic geisha district with teahouses, shops, and Edo-era charm.
Kenroku-en Garden
One of Japan’s most famous gardens
Omicho Market
Famous market in the heart of Kanazawa
Oyama Shrine
Unique Western-style Shrine building in Central Kanazawa