The Vibrant Heart of Kanazawa: Omicho Market

• Helloこんにちは
  [konnichiwa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [sayonara]
• Yesはい
  [hai]
• Noいいえ
  [iie]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [douzo]
• Thank youありがとうございます
  [arigatou gozaimasu]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [sumimasen]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [ogenki desu ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [genki desu. anata wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [wakarimasen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [menyuu o misete kudasai]
• I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [niku wa tabemasen]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [kanpai!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [okaikei o onegaishimasu]

• Help!助けて！
  [tasukete!]
• Go away!どいて！
  [doite!]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んで！
  [keisatsu o yonde!]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！
  [isha o yonde!]
• I'm lost道に迷っています
  [michi ni mayotteimasu]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [guai ga warui desu]

• I'd like to buy...これを買いたいです
  [kore o kaitai desu]
• I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [miteru dake desu]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [ikura desu ka?]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [sore wa takasugimasu]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [ima nanji desu ka?]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [ichiji desu]
• Half past (10)10時半です
  [juuji han desu]
• Morning朝
  [asa]
• Afternoon午後
  [gogo]
• Evening夕方
  [yuugata]
• Yesterday昨日
  [kinou]
• Today今日
  [kyou]
• Tomorrow明日
  [ashita]
• 1一
  [ichi]
• 2二
  [ni]
• 3三
  [san]
• 4四
  [shi]
• 5五
  [go]
• 6六
  [roku]
• 7七
  [nana]
• 8八
  [hachi]
• 9九
  [kyuu]
• 10十
  [juu]

• Where's a/the...?…はどこですか？
  [... wa doko desu ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [juusho wa nan desu ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてもらえますか？
  [chizu de misete moraemasu ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次の（バス）はいつですか？
  [tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)（…）までのチケットをください
  [(...) made no chiketto o kudasai]

Omicho Market, known as the 'Kitchen of Kanazawa', has roots that trace back to the Edo period (1603-1868). Originally serving as a wholesale market for the local fishing industry, it evolved from a small street market into a bustling marketplace by the 18th century, reflecting the region's rich culinary heritage.

During the Edo period, Kanazawa thrived as the center of the Kaga Domain, ruled by the Maeda clan. Omicho Market played a crucial role in the local economy, providing fresh seafood, produce, and other goods to both the samurai class and commoners. This contributed to the establishment of Kanazawa as a significant urban center in Japan.

Following World War II, Omicho Market underwent significant transformations to adapt to changing consumer needs. As the city rebuilt, the market not only preserved its traditional role but also began to incorporate modern elements, making it a blend of historical authenticity and contemporary commerce.

In recent decades, Omicho Market has become a cultural landmark in Kanazawa, celebrated for its diverse food offerings. It hosts seasonal festivals and local events, such as the Kanazawa Hyakubangai (100 store shopping area), which further highlights its importance as a cultural and culinary hub within the city.

As Kanazawa has embraced tourism in the 21st century, Omicho Market has managed to maintain its traditional atmosphere while catering to a growing number of visitors. The market's vibrant stalls selling local delicacies, fresh seafood, and traditional crafts continue to reflect the region's cultural identity and history.

Omicho Market is centrally located in Kanazawa, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From Kanazawa Station, you can take a short 15-minute walk to the market, or opt for a local bus service that stops nearby. The bus ride takes about 10 minutes. Taxis are also available and provide a convenient option if you're carrying heavy bags.

Omicho Market is a pedestrian-friendly area, making it easy to explore on foot. The market itself is compact, with narrow lanes lined with stalls and shops. For those looking to explore further afield, rental bicycles are available nearby, and Kanazawa's efficient bus system can take you to other attractions in the city.

Omicho Market is generally safe for tourists. However, as in any busy market area, be aware of pickpockets and keep your belongings secure. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Kanazawa, but it's advisable to remain vigilant in crowded spaces and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is within a short distance from Omicho Market. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies nearby where you can find over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking a lot. Don’t wear revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting nearby temples and shrines. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to those in need. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet vendors politely; a simple 'Konnichiwa' (こんにちは) suffices. Eating & Drinking: Do sample local street food and enjoy dining at market stalls. Don’t waste food or leave unfinished meals, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Omicho Market like a local, visit early in the morning when the market is less crowded and the freshest produce is available. Engage with vendors to learn about their products and try samples. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations. If you're looking for a unique experience, explore the side streets adjacent to the market, where you can find hidden gems like traditional tea houses and artisanal shops.