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Nagoya Antique Market in Higashi betsuin Temple
I visited the antique market held at Nagoya Higashi Betsuin on November 24, 2024. Let me introduce what this market is like, along with some photos!
What is Nagoya Antique Market?
The Nagoya Antique Market is a large-scale event held twice a year. While Higashi Betsuin hosts a morning market on the 8th, 18th, and 28th of every month, the Antique Market differs greatly in both theme and scale. True to its name, the market focuses on antiques but also offers a variety of items such as accessories and vintage clothing. The number of participating vendors is far greater than that of the regular morning market. Additionally, numerous food trucks attend, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of dishes on-site.
How to get ticket
Unlike regular markets, the Antique Market requires a ticket (1,000 yen) for entry. Tickets are sold near the main gate of Higashi Betsuin, so you can line up there to purchase one. If you’re unsure where to buy, don’t hesitate to ask a nearby local. Most Japanese people are willing to help, so you’ll likely manage. Buying a ticket might be the biggest challenge for visitors from overseas.
You’ll receive a pamphlet and a wristband upon purchasing your ticket. Make sure to wear the wristband on your wrist where it’s visible. You’ll need to show it when entering the venue and when making purchases.
Higashi Betsuin Temple
This time, the event was spread across three locations. I started by visiting Higashi Betsuin. My first impression? It was packed with people. Since it was held on a weekend, it seems many people attended. With antiques and vintage clothing on sale, the market attracted a significant number of young visitors as well.
After taking a look around, I decided to head to the next venue, Nishi Betsuin. To be honest, I’m not particularly interested in antiques. My goal today is to experience Nagoya’s events firsthand and write about them for my WordPress blog. Nishi Betsuin is about a 10-minute walk away. They offered a free bicycle rental service, but the process seemed a bit complicated, so I decided to walk instead.
Right after leaving Higashi Betsuin, you’ll find Eikokuji Temple . This temple marks the site where Christians were executed in the 1600s. There’s a memorial stone erected by a feudal lord of that time to honor them. While I was observing it, a black cat appeared. Could this be an omen of something ominous?
Nishi Betsuin Temple
Nishi Betsuin is a bit smaller and less crowded than the main venue, Higashi Betsuin. It has a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.
By around 1 PM, the temperature had risen, making the day much more comfortable. It was about the time when people started feeling hungry, and I noticed many others eating. I couldn’t resist either and decided to order a hamburger.
The hamburger was a bit on the expensive side at 1,000 yen, but it was delicious. However, when it comes to the best burgers in Nagoya, I’d say Handsome Burger in the Fushimi underground shopping street takes the top spot.
Hioki Shrine
Finally, I visited Hioki Shrine. It seems the focus here was on outdoor products and food trucks. They had a bonfire going, allowing people to warm up while enjoying a cup of coffee.
This time, the Antique Market was held across three venues, which was a great idea. It made for a nice stroll, and the area is home to many temples with some old streets still intact, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The next event will be held on April 26-27. It’s a fun event to explore, so I highly recommend it.
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