Boroichi Market I

The 436 year old Boroichi (rag market) takes place in Setagaya on January 15 and 16 and again at the end of the year on December 15 and 16. Boroichi is an enormous flea market at which more than 700 vendors sell a variety of used goods, antiques, handicrafts, religious artefacts and food to approximately 200,000 visitors.

Any cheapos looking to outfit their apartment, pick up an interesting Japanese knick knack (kokeshi dolls for 1,000yen) or just take some interesting photos should definitely take a look at this market. The market will be running from 9am to 9pm with closing marked by exploding firecrackers.

The market is located on Boroichi Dori which starts next to Kamimachi Station and runs through to Setagaya Station – both on the quaint, light rail Setagaya Line.

For more info and pics of the market, read this article.

(Greg Lane)