Kastuura Morning Market, Morning market in Katsuura, Japan
Kastuura Morning Market spreads across two main streets with about 80 stalls selling fresh seafood, local vegetables, traditional pickles, and homemade Japanese sweets. The market alternates its location between different streets based on the calendar to serve different neighborhoods.
This market began in 1591 during the Momoyama period and has operated continuously for over four centuries in this coastal fishing town. The tradition has remained largely unchanged, anchoring daily life in the community.
Local fishermen and farmers sell directly from their boats and gardens, creating a space where the community gathers to buy ingredients and catch up with neighbors. The vendors know their regular customers by name and share stories about the day's catch.
The market opens early each day except Wednesday, starting at 6:30 AM and closing around 11:00 AM, so arriving early gives you the best selection. The location switches between two different streets every two weeks, so check which street is in use before you visit.
Nine active fishing ports feed this market, making Katsuura the second-largest fishing hub in Chiba Prefecture. This proximity to the docks means the seafood arrives minutes after landing and sells out quickly.
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