
Setagaya Boro-ichi
Tokyo's oldest flea market, a 400-year-old tradition offering antiques, crafts, and street food twice a year.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Only dates it's held

Setagaya Boro-ichi
Best Time
Only dates it's held

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tokyo's oldest flea market, a 400-year-old tradition offering antiques, crafts, and street food twice a year.
"A must-visit for antique lovers and those seeking a unique cultural experience in Tokyo!"

🎯 Plan Around Dates
Only held Dec 15-16 & Jan 15-16. Book flights/hotels accordingly!
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be walking a lot! Wear your most comfortable shoes for exploring.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Antiques Galore
Boroichi Street
Discover centuries-old treasures, from vintage kimonos to unique household items. A true antique lover's paradise.

Local Street Food Delights
Market Food Stalls
Savor traditional Japanese snacks and street food. A delicious way to refuel while browsing.

Crafts and Knick-Knacks
Various Stalls
Find unique handmade crafts, toys, and quirky souvenirs that capture the spirit of the market.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mark Your Calendar: Twice a Year Only!
Navigating the Market Maze
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan Around Dates
Only held Dec 15-16 & Jan 15-16. Book flights/hotels accordingly!
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be walking a lot! Wear your most comfortable shoes for exploring.
💰 Bring Cash
Many vendors prefer cash, so come prepared for purchases.
🚶♀️ Arrive Early
Beat the biggest crowds and snag the best finds before they're gone.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan Around Dates
Only held Dec 15-16 & Jan 15-16. Book flights/hotels accordingly!
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be walking a lot! Wear your most comfortable shoes for exploring.
💰 Bring Cash
Many vendors prefer cash, so come prepared for purchases.
🚶♀️ Arrive Early
Beat the biggest crowds and snag the best finds before they're gone.
📸 Capture the Vibe
The market's atmosphere is unique. Get your camera ready!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Setagaya Boro-ichi is a highly anticipated, historic flea market that offers a unique glimpse into Tokyo's past. Visitors rave about the sheer volume and variety of antiques, crafts, and street food available. While the crowds can be intense and it's only held twice a year, the experience is widely considered worth the effort for its cultural significance and treasure-hunting opportunities.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Setagaya Boro-ichi is easily accessible by public transport. It's a short walk from Setagaya Station or Kamimaezawa Station on the Tokyu Setagaya Line. It's also conveniently located less than 30 minutes from Shinjuku and Shibuya.
The Tokyu Setagaya Line is a charming way to arrive, offering scenic views. Many visitors find it convenient to take a train to Setagaya Station and walk from there.
Parking is generally limited and can be challenging due to the market's popularity. It's highly recommended to use public transportation to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, you can use a taxi, but be aware that traffic around the market area can be heavy on event days. Public transport is often more reliable.
The Tokyu Setagaya Line is the most direct route, with Setagaya Station and Kamimaezawa Station being the closest stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Setagaya Boro-ichi is a public flea market and does not require an entrance ticket. Entry is free for all visitors.
The market typically runs from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM on its scheduled dates. However, it's best to arrive earlier for the best selection.
Setagaya Boro-ichi is held twice a year: on December 15-16 and January 15-16.
There is no admission fee to enter the Setagaya Boro-ichi market. You only pay for items you wish to purchase.
While the market is open until 8:00 PM, vendors may start packing up earlier. Arriving in the morning or early afternoon is recommended for the full experience.
🎫 🛍️ Onsite Experience
You can find a vast array of items including antiques, vintage clothing, crafts, household goods, toys, and local snacks. It's a treasure trove for unique finds.
Absolutely! With game stalls, food, and a wide variety of items, it's a fun outing for all ages.
While not as common as in some other flea markets, polite bargaining might be possible with some vendors, especially towards the end of the day.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must! Dress in layers as the weather can be chilly in December and January.
Restroom facilities are usually available within the market area, though they can get busy. It's always good to be prepared.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market offers a fantastic selection of street food, from savory snacks to sweet treats. It's a great place to sample local flavors.
Options can vary, but you can often find items like yakisoba, takoyaki, and various sweets. It's best to ask vendors directly about ingredients.
Yes, the Setagaya area has many local restaurants and cafes if you're looking for a more substantial meal after exploring the market.
Street food prices are generally reasonable, offering good value for money. Expect to spend a few hundred to a thousand yen per item.
Look out for classic Japanese festival foods like yakitori, takoyaki, crepes, and various fried snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, always be respectful of vendors and ask permission before taking close-up shots of their merchandise or stalls.
Capture the bustling atmosphere of the crowded streets, the unique items on display, and the interactions between vendors and shoppers. The sheer volume of stalls offers endless photo opportunities.
Some vendors might have signs indicating no photography for specific items. Always be mindful and respectful of these requests.
A versatile lens that can handle both wide shots of the street and closer details of items would be ideal. A camera with good low-light performance can also be helpful.
It's polite to ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially if they are the focus of your shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the market, consider visiting the Shiro-Hige's Cream Puff Factory for a fun, Totoro-themed treat. The Tokyu Setagaya Line tram also offers a unique and enjoyable ride for kids, providing a different perspective of the neighborhood.
💰 Budget Travelers
For affordable eats, stick to the street food stalls within the market. You can enjoy delicious local snacks at reasonable prices. Exploring neighborhoods like Shimokitazawa also offers many budget-friendly vintage shops and casual eateries.
🛍️ Vintage & Antique Enthusiasts
After the market, explore News Recycle Gallery in Setagaya, which offers an eclectic mix of vintage items, furniture, and more. For a broader vintage shopping experience, the nearby Shimokitazawa district is a must-visit, known for its numerous second-hand clothing stores and antique shops.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Setagaya Boro-ichi
The market's longevity is a testament to its enduring appeal. It has evolved from its humble beginnings to encompass a vast array of goods, but the spirit of discovery and community remains. Walking through the bustling stalls, you can almost feel the echoes of centuries past, with vendors selling everything from antique ceramics to vintage clothing.
Recognized as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property, Setagaya Boro-ichi offers a unique glimpse into traditional Japanese commerce and culture. It's an experience that connects visitors to the past while providing a vibrant, present-day marketplace.
Navigating the Market: Tips from the Community
While the market is free to enter, it's crucial to bring cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards. This also speeds up transactions, which is helpful in such a busy environment. Some Redditors mention that while haggling isn't as prevalent as in other flea markets, a polite negotiation might be possible, especially towards the end of the day.
Beyond the antiques, the market is a culinary adventure. Numerous food stalls offer classic Japanese street food, making it a great place to grab a bite. Remember to be respectful of vendors and their merchandise; always ask permission before taking close-up photos of items or people.
Beyond Boro-ichi: Exploring Setagaya
Setagaya is also known for its vibrant shopping streets, like Shimokitazawa, which is a hub for vintage clothing, quirky boutiques, and trendy cafes. You can find unique fashion items and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere of this popular district.
For those interested in local culture, consider exploring the Setagaya Line, a charming tram that offers a scenic ride through the neighborhood. You might even catch a glimpse of the 'lucky cat train' if you're lucky! The area also boasts unique eateries, such as the impressive 'Jenga meat' at Yakiniku Fuchioka, showcasing the diverse culinary scene.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit