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Japanese Antique Markets: What to Expect

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Antique markets and monthly temple fairs in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka: their days, times and rain rules as stated officially, and what the official pages leave out.

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Key points

  1. Many start early and run on a fixed day each month
  2. Kyoto and Osaka temple fairs are held on the 21st and 25th
  3. Payment and bargaining are rarely stated officially (TBC)

Introduction

Many of the antique markets and temple fairs on this site are held in shrine or temple grounds on a fixed day each month. Here is what their official pages say, and what they do not.

Early starts, fixed days (Tokyo)

Temple fairs in Kyoto and Osaka

  • To-ji Kobo-ichi (Kyoto): the 21st of every month, in the temple grounds. Hours are not stated officially (TBC).
  • Kitano Tenmangu “Tenjin-san” (Kyoto): the 25th of every month, with stalls all day. On December 25 and January 25, the shrine says there are about 1,000 stalls, more than usual.
  • Shitennoji Daishi-e (Osaka): the 21st of every month, across the temple grounds. Hours are not stated officially (TBC).

What the official pages do not say

Most of these pages do not state payment methods, English support or bargaining customs (TBC). Some say times can change with the weather (Machida, Musashi-Itsukaichi), and some markets are cancelled in rain (Oedo, Tomioka Hachimangu). See Before you go and Shopping and payment.

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Last updated：Oct 21, 2026