Recently, it has become common to see events such as markets being held on weekends. It may be due to the fact that more than a year has passed since the COVID-19 pandemic was classified as a Category 5 infectious disease, making it easier to hold such events.
There are various types of markets and other events like this.
- Those focused on parenting
- Those featuring meat as the main attraction
- Those exclusively for handmade items
What I found is the "Warm Water Market ~From Here~". From the title, I felt something gentle. Additionally, the event flyer conveys a warm atmosphere.
I learned that it will be held on July 6, 2024 (Sunday) at Achi Terrace Kurashiki Open Space, so I went to find out what kind of market it is.
What is the Warm Water Market ~From Here~
The Warm Water Market ~From Here~ (hereinafter referred to as "Warm Water Market") is a market that is regularly held alternately in Okayama City and Kurashiki City under the slogan "Kind to people, kind to the earth, a market that connects."
It started in Okayama City in June 2024, and this will be the first time it is held in Kurashiki City in July, making it the second overall event. Vendors full of passion and commitment gather for a calm yet lively event.
The Warm Water Market has the following features:
- Food that is additive-free, pesticide-free, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly
- Accessories and art items with heartfelt thoughts that are meant to be cherished
- Body care that nourishes the heart and heals the body
- Workshops and photo sessions to take home memories...
On July 6, 2024 (Sunday), it will be held at Achi Terrace Kurashiki Open Space, gathering the following vendors.
On that day, "Traveler's Merchant Teahouse" participated as a substitute for "Kanakana Coffee."
The atmosphere on the day of the event
The Warm Water Market, which was held for the first time in Kurashiki City, took place on a sunny day despite the rainy season, making it a very pleasant day.
However, the temperature was a concern. It can be tough for both vendors and customers in the heat. Fortunately, a cool breeze was blowing through the Achi Terrace Kurashiki Open Space, the venue, which was very much appreciated.
The venue for the Warm Water Market attracted many people, including families, couples, and individuals of all ages. While those heading to the Bikan Historical Area might pass by the sidewalk on the opposite side of Achi Terrace Kurashiki, those who happened to walk by the Achi Terrace Kurashiki side may have been drawn in.
It was that lively and bright atmosphere. The flea market space was particularly energetic, with elementary school students shouting, "Welcome!" as they served customers.
I walked around the venue and stopped by the booths that caught my interest.
Traveler's Merchant Teahouse: Recommended Matcha An Smoothie
First up is the Traveler's Merchant Teahouse. They appeared as a substitute for "Kanakana Coffee," which was initially scheduled to participate. They had plans to set up later that evening as well, but I was impressed by their quick adaptability.
At Traveler's Merchant Teahouse, there is something I always order whenever I visit other events. That is the "Matcha An Smoothie" (600 yen including tax).
The balance of matcha and an (sweet red bean paste) is just right, making it delicious and easy to drink. My son also loves this Matcha An Smoothie, and he ended up taking all of it from me this time...
The owner, Ryo Sho Hara, was visited by acquaintances one after another, and conversations flourished. Of course, first-time customers were also greeted with kind smiles and tones, so they are sure to become fans.
Hyakusai Farm: Organic Vegetables
Next, I was interested in the organic vegetables sold by Hyakusai Farm. They had summer staples like tomatoes, eggplants, edamame, and onions. Notably, everything was available for purchase at 200 yen (including tax) per bag.
The vivid red caught my eye, so I chose tomatoes.
After returning home and trying the tomatoes, my impression was, "Ah, this tastes like the tomatoes my grandmother used to grow." The aroma of these tomatoes, close to freshly picked from the field, tickles my nose.
Tomatoes from supermarkets tend to lose their unique aroma over time after being harvested. In contrast, the vegetables from Hyakusai Farm seem to have a different vitality. I think they are appealing both in appearance and taste.
Nash Curry American: Unique Blend of 30 Spices
I started to feel hungry. Among the food booths, what caught my eye... or rather, what strongly wafted to my nose was curry. They are committed to using ingredients with minimal pesticides and chemical fertilizers, and they take great care in their preparation.
Even though they say "a unique blend of 30 spices," it's impossible to identify all of them just by tasting. However, I thought, "Ah, there’s a complex umami flavor that intertwines nicely." There is also a spiciness typical of curry, but it's at a level that even children can eat, which is reassuring. My son also loves this curry.
Conclusion
The Warm Water Market, held for the first time in Kurashiki City, was a success. I heard from the organizers, "We were a bit worried about whether people would gather since it was the first time at Achi Terrace Kurashiki," but there was absolutely no need for such concerns.
When a market with a fun atmosphere is held, people naturally gather and are drawn in. It was impressive to see many smiles from both the vendors and customers participating in the Warm Water Market.
I believe this atmosphere will carry over to the next event in Okayama City in August. The Kurashiki City event is scheduled for September. I am looking forward to both events from now on.
Nurumayu Marche ~Koko Kara~ Data
| Name | Nurumayu Marche ~Koko Kara~ |
|---|---|
| Date | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM |
| Location | 3-9-1 Achi, Kurashiki City, Achi Terrace Kurashiki |
| Website | Nurumayu Marche ~Koko Kara~ Instagram |
