[Held on Sunday, April 19] The Third Hayashima Mat Flea Market ～ A selection of antiques, crafts, and one-of-a-kind items you can only find here are on display

There is an event that is becoming a regular fixture in Hayashima Town. It is the “Hayashima Mushiro Flea Market,” which was also held twice before (in April and September 2025).

The third edition will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026.

When you hear “flea market,” you might imagine lots of old-fashioned items and think it is only for people who like that sort of thing.

However, the Hayashima Mushiro Flea Market is an event that is “old, but a little new,” where families with children come as visitors, as do people who love crafts.

What is the Third Hayashima Mushiro Flea Market?

The Hayashima Mushiro Flea Market is a flea-market-style event where antiques, miscellaneous goods, craftworks, and other “things that have brought color to someone’s life” are lined up. But there’s more: it also has a well-stocked food area, as well as workshops and hands-on activities that children can enjoy.

“Mushiro,” the character in the event’s name, refers to a simple mat woven from straw, igusa rush, or cattail. Hayashima Town has developed as a town of igusa rush and igusa products.

This time, more than 68 vendors will be participating, including the following types of businesses:

• Antiques
• Crafts and plants
• Fruit and processed foods
• Food and drink
• Hayashima Town Tourism Association

For a detailed vendor list, check the Hayashima Mushiro Flea Market’s official Instagram.

Interview with the Hayashima Town Tourism Association

We spoke with a representative of the Hayashima Town Tourism Association about what makes the Hayashima Mushiro Flea Market special.

How did the Hayashima Mushiro Flea Market come to be held?

Representative

We wanted to rediscover the appeal of Hayashima’s rich history and its “highway culture,” where people and goods come and go, and create an enjoyable time in Hayashima where people could look, talk, and shop. Also, the first and second events drew more visitors than expected, and we felt the energy of the community, which led to holding this third edition.

Why was the kanji for “mushiro” in the event name changed from “筵” to “莚” this time?

Representative

Apparently, people involved in the goza mat industry often use the character “莚” rather than “筵.” That’s why we changed it.

What are the highlights of the third edition?

Representative

A selection of antiques and crafts, including one-of-a-kind items you can only find here, will be on display. There may even be products available only at this event!

What kinds of people attended previous events?

Representative

Many people liked antiques and vintage items, were interested in handicrafts and crafts, came with their children, or simply enjoyed the atmosphere of the event.

Who would you like to see come to the event?

Representative

Everyone is welcome, of course!

You may enjoy it even more if you’re looking for lifestyle goods or antiques, enjoy making things or workshops, or are looking for an event to attend with your children.

We’d be happy if you came with the easygoing attitude that you can “drop by even without any particular purpose.”

Do you have a message for our readers?

Representative

Whether you find a favorite item, experience a craftsperson’s handiwork, or simply take a leisurely stroll, you’ll enjoy a pleasant time.
We hope you’ll experience Hayashima’s unique charm at the Third Hayashima Mushiro Flea Market.

From the Writer

The writer attended both the first and second events with family. For the children, who were born in the Heisei and Reiwa eras, the products with a Showa-retro feel seemed unusual. In other words, it’s an event children can enjoy.

There are hands-on activities such as workshops, not just things to look at, so I think you can have a good time even if you just drop by.

Get handpicked articles from Kurashiki Tocotoco on LINE