“Boro-ichi” open-air market in Setagaya: Dec 16, 2023

I visited “Bori-ichi” open-air market held in Setagaya City. It has 400 years of history and is one of famous open-air market in Tokyo.

The market was held in the areas near Kamimachi and Setagaya stations of the Setagaya Line.

About 600 stalls were open at the sides of streets. They sold foods, clothes, accessories, toys, tableware pieces and many other things.

Old books were also sold there.

They open the market total four days – Dec. 15 and 16 in 2023 as well as January 15 and 16 in 2024 – this winter.

The market was crowded with visitors. Setagaya City estimates that about 200 thousand people visit the market each day. (See also the top and 2nd photos)

 

The original form of the market started in 1578 under the deregulation policy of Hojo Ujiyasu, the ruler of Kanto area at the time. The style of the market changed after the Edo era; current style started after the World war 2.

The local governor’s house, or daikan yashiki, is preserved in the area.

I enjoyed both Bori-ichi market and Setagay’s history.