Tsuku Ichi (つくいち) – Tsukuba`s Once- A-Month Morning Market will be held (for the 86th time) tomorrow ( September 6, 2015) -weather permitting
TSUKU ICHI – Tsukuba`s once-a-month outdoor morning market. About 30 of Tsukuba`s health and environmetally conscious businesses put up tents and tables to offer their products. Its a great place for breakfast, lunch, or just coffee and cake
By Avi Landau
It is now a a part of Tsukuba lore. Back in 2008, three men: the proprietor of Tsukuba`s Brotzeit Bakery, a producer of organic vegetables, and the founder of NPO- GOKIGEN FARM (ごきげんファ-ム)- referred to almost reverently now as the BAKER, the FARMER, and the CONCERNED CITIZEN- decided to create a monthly event which would bring together like-minded local businesses and consumers – those interested in high-quality, healthy, environmentally-friendly, locally produced products – at a centrally located venue.
One of Tsuku Ichi`s most popular boots is run by Frenchman David. There are always long lines for his freshly baked breads (Dec. 7, 2014)
Over the years, their idea has turned into a beloved Tsukuba Institution known as the TSUKU-ICHI (つくいち). The first time it was held, on July 18th 2008, eleven stands of varying shapes and sizes were set up in CHUO-KOEN PARK (中央公園)- just across from the street from the TX Terminal. They sold freshly baked breads, coffee, and locally grown organic produce (among other things).
Another popular booth selling a breakfast curry set (Dec. 7th 2014)
Tomorrow ( September 6, 2015), for the 86th monthly TSUKU-ICHI, you will find more than 30 stands waiting for you, offering a wide variety of foods (some of my favorite restaurants are represents !) and crafts- there are pony rides for the kids, as well.
There are pony rides for the kids (or anyone else who care to get on), as well.
What`s in the Name?
The name Tsuku-Ichi is a play on words which derives from two meanings of the Japanese word ICHI. One is MARKET (市場)- as in TSUKUBA no ICHIBA (つくばの市場), and the other is ONE (一), ICHI, as in ONCE A MONTH. And that is exactly what TSUKU ICHI is- a once-a- month Tsukuba market-place at the Chuo-Koen Park.
Fresh flowers for sale at TSUKU ICHI
TIMES:
The market will open at 9 AM and will close at between 1 and 2 PM
The most delicious stuff sells quickly, so its better to get there early ( a great place on a fine day for your Sunday morning coffee!)
In the event of heavy rain or strong wind, the market will be cancelled.
GETTING THERE:
Simple as pie! Just across the street (to the north) of the Tsukuba Center bus and train terminal ..
Perfect weather and a nice crowd for the 77th TSUKU ICHI on December 7th 2014
Hasegawa-san and her son Wataru selling their blueberry and rhubarb jams along with plenty of fresh TAKANA leaves.
Organically grown vegetables from GOKIGEN FARM- I actually get home delivery from them once a week !
Jams
And some YUZU (citron) tea – perfect for keeping colds away!