The newest addition to the array of farmers markets in the Tokyo and Yokohama regions is the Osanbashi Marche. When no ships are scheduled, the market fills the dock just below the main port building and offers a taste of local and unique fare in an unusual and beautiful location.
Less than a year old, the Osanbashi Marche is the brainchild of officials in the Yokohama Port Office.
“We wanted to introduce local products and make use of this great space,” said Yuichiro Imamura, Senior Executive Director of the Port of Yokohama Promotion Association.
Nearly 80 vendors are on hand when the market is on, catering to roughly 15,000 visitors. Live music, fresh vegetables, scrumptious baked goods and some spectacular food trucks blend with live music throughout the day for a mix of fun and food that’s hard to beat.
Satoh Nouen comes from Yamanashi Prefecture to share their sweet bounty. Grower Yuichi Satoh’s peaches appear in early summer, followed by grapes and nashi (Japanese pears) in fall. A selection of Grade B fruits—those with small imperfections—are perfect for homemade jam or serious snacking and available at a slightly lower price. Get there early though as they go fast!
Akira Tanaka, the second generation proprietor of Mukashi no Aji Tamago in Sagamihara, Kanagawa Prefecture, brings his farm-raised eggs to the market to meet and talk with customers directly. Tanaka took over the family business 40 years ago and continues the tradition of sharing a tasty version of a kitchen staple with a focus on quality feed and a chemical-free environment for their laying hens.
Visitors will find a number of food carts to choose from, but The Miso Fish Stand is worth a stop. After the 2011 triple disaster, founder Takumi Takase volunteered and subsequently moved to Kesennuma in Miyagi Prefecture. Making good use of unused shark meat from the shark fin soup industry there, Takase combined it with local miso and created a delectable fish sandwich made fresh to order. Paired with a local craft beer, it’s a fantastic meal.
A little irregularly scheduled but always fun, the Osanbashi Marche is full of delightful treats for visitors of all ages. If you are looking for something special to do in Yokohama that offers a taste of the area, this market is just for you.
