The Kochi Sunday Market, or Nichiyo-ichi, is one of Japan’s great street markets, a tradition over three hundred years old that fills a kilometre-long avenue leading to Kochi Castle every Sunday. Hundreds of stalls line both sides of the street, selling fresh local vegetables and fruit, pickles, plants and flowers, tools, antiques, street food and crafts — much of it brought in by farmers and makers from the surrounding countryside. Wandering its length is a wonderful window into everyday Kochi life, full of local colour, seasonal produce and friendly banter. Try local snacks like imokenpi (candied sweet potato) as you go, and browse for a while: it is one of the most enjoyable free things to do in the city.


🗓️ At a Glance

Location Kochi City, Kochi
Hours Sundays, ~5:00–15:00 (seasonal)
Admission Free
Time needed 1–1.5 hours
Best time Sunday mornings, year-round

What to See

  • A kilometre of stalls running to Kochi Castle.
  • Local vegetables, fruit, pickles, plants and antiques.
  • Street food and snacks like imokenpi candied sweet potato.
  • A 300-year-old window into everyday Kochi life.

Combine Your Visit


Getting There

  • By tram: central tram stops are steps from the market street.
  • On foot: it runs through the heart of Kochi to the castle.

Tips

Come on a Sunday morning, since this is the only day it runs, and go earlier rather than later as stalls begin winding down by mid-afternoon. Try street snacks like imokenpi as you browse, bring cash and a bag for any produce you buy, and combine it naturally with Kochi Castle at the top of the market street.