On December 15, 2024 (Sunday), the regular event "Takahashi River Basin Kurashiki Sansai Market" was held in front of JR Kurashiki Station, showcasing a lively atmosphere that blew away the cold.
This morning market is held every third Sunday of the month from 8 AM to 11 AM, and the December event featured about 80 vendors from inside and outside Kurashiki City. Curious about the atmosphere of the unique local products on display, I headed to cover the event.
The Origin of "Kurashiki Sansai Market" Alive with History and Tradition
Kurashiki developed as a "tenryo" (shogunate-controlled area) during the Edo period.
The "Kurashiki Sansai Market," named after the regularly held "Sansai Market" and "Rokusai Market" of that time, started in March 2005.
Subsequently, to further promote the charm of the seven cities and three towns in the Takahashi River basin, it was renewed in April 2016. It has become a monthly tradition.
At the venue, amidst the cold wind, the lively voice of the announcer resonated, creating a warm and vibrant atmosphere from the moment one stepped in.
About a 3-minute walk from JR Kurashiki Station, the venue saw a steady stream of elderly people and tourists arriving from early morning.
The Official Character "Kuramoni" Inspired by Kurashiki's White Walls
With the morning chill, the warmth of the sun gently permeated the attendees.
The "Kurashiki Sansai Market" also features the official character "Kuramoni"! With a design that incorporates Kurashiki's white walls in the hat and pants, and the flower "wisteria" of Kurashiki City in the hair accessory and tail, it is an adorable design.
Additionally, since it is December, Kuramoni dressed as Santa Claus to enhance the festive atmosphere and entertained the crowd with its signature dance.
Full of Charm! Unique Products You Can Only Taste Here
This time at the "Kurashiki Sansai Market," a luxurious lineup fitting for the year-end was prepared.
Local Specialty "Tsurajima Lotus Root"
Tsurajima lotus root began to be cultivated during the Edo period as reclamation progressed, utilizing the clayey land.
Rich in dietary fiber and vitamins, this winter seasonal vegetable is a delight for the body. Lotus root, essential for osechi (New Year’s cuisine), can be purchased in abundance at reasonable prices.
Wishing for a bright outlook for the coming year through the holes of the lotus root, I would like to add it to my New Year’s dishes.
Niimi City's Long-established "Chiyagyu Beef Dice Steak Skewers"
The juicy steak skewers provided by a renowned shop with 80 years of history burst with flavor with just one bite.
Fruits of Sizes Not Found in Supermarkets
The fruit vendor rushed in from Bizen at 4 AM, bringing astonishingly large fruits.
- 4L size apples with a crisp texture and sweet nectar
- Seedless, soft giant persimmons
- Smooth, golden-colored Nijisseiki pears
These are impressive just to look at.
Chirinmen and Ibuki Iriko from the Seto Inland Sea
A selection of local seafood packed with flavor, enticing the hearts of cooking enthusiasts.
Sales by Students from Kurashiki High School's Commercial Department
Students sold handmade rice cakes and dumplings. Their youthful energy brought smiles to the community.
Seeing them gain experience in the business world gives a sense of the future of the region.
The venue heats up even more with a luxurious plan!
The "Kurashiki Santa Claus Christmas Lottery" was a great success as a major event that captured the hearts of visitors.
The luxurious prizes presented by volunteers from the Kurashiki Chamber of Commerce and Industry Youth Division included tickets to the Ohara Museum of Art, filling the venue with cheers and smiles.
This lottery added even more color to the bustling morning market, leaving special memories for those who visited.
Furthermore, tourists visiting from Taiwan enjoyed the lively atmosphere reminiscent of a Taiwanese night market while holding freshly harvested oysters. Their smiles reflected the special experience in a foreign land.
Conclusion
The "Takahashi River Basin Kurashiki Sansai Market" was a special morning market filled with heat and vitality that made one forget the winter chill. Continuing the tradition from the Edo period, it was a wonderful event where local people and tourists gathered to fully enjoy the charm of the area.
In this warm atmosphere, I was able to feel the culture of Kurashiki and the warmth of its people.
The next "Kurashiki Sansai Market" will be held on February 16, 2025 (Sunday).
Local specialties and delicious food will be available, and I think you will have a great time. Please visit the next morning market and experience the charm of Kurashiki directly.
Also, for those considering setting up a stall, the executive committee will kindly and clearly explain the simple procedures, so please feel free to contact us. Let's spread the charm of Kurashiki together.
Data on the Takahashi River Basin Kurashiki Sansai Market
| Name | Takahashi River Basin Kurashiki Sansai Market |
|---|---|
| Date | Every third Sunday of the month |
| Location | 2-11-13 Achi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture / Kurashiki Station Shopping Street and surrounding area |
| Website | Takahashi River Basin Kurashiki Sansai Market |
