JAPAN MARKET is a special event in Leiden, the Netherlands, to celebrate Japanese culture. The event is a celebration for everyone who loves and is interested in Japan. JAPAN MARKET will take place on Sunday, 19 May 2024 and will be an unforgettable day, like a journey to Japan.
JOURNEY TO JAPAN MARKET
Step into the quiet streets of Leiden and you enter the vibrant world of JAPAN MARKET. Colourful flags and lanterns sway in the breeze and traditional music echoes through the air. The market is organised by the local community who love Japan and aims to celebrate Japanese culture and introduce Dutch people to Japanese traditions, crafts and food culture. For those with a connection to Japan, the event will remind them of the tastes and nostalgic atmosphere of their homeland.
JAPAN MARKET is a paradise for lovers of Japanese culture. The market is crammed with Japanese crafts, art, antiques and, of course, delicious food. Local vendors, both direct from Japan and inspired by Japan, come together to sell their crafts and art, and offer delicious food. This event is a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture and get a taste of its depth.
Spectacular Japanese beauty and craft
Traditional crafts
At JAPAN MARKET, you will be captivated by the beauty and craftsmanship of traditional Japanese crafts. From ceramics and lacquerware to textiles and swords, you will find artworks created by skilled craftspeople. These crafts embody the traditions and culture of Japan, and their delicacy and attention to detail cannot help but fascinate the viewer.
Art and antiques
The market also features a wide range of art objects, including Japanese paintings, prints, calligraphy and sculptures. These works of art testify to the creativity and skill of Japanese artists. In the antiques section, visitors will also find a glimpse of good old Japan. Kimonos, dolls, furniture and other items that have been handed down through time tell the story of Japan's traditions and history.
Workshops and demonstrations
JAPAN MARKET is not just about shopping, it also offers opportunities for experience and learning. Visitors can take part in workshops such as calligraphy and origami, or watch demonstrations of kendo and aikido. These experiences will help you gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and traditions.
Enjoy Japanese food culture with all your senses
Traditional Japanese food
One of the biggest attractions of JAPAN MARKET is undoubtedly the food. Many traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, ramen and takoyaki will be served. These dishes are served by local Japanese restaurants and chefs who are passionate about Japanese food. Visitors to the market will be enthralled by the taste of Japanese food, using all their senses.
Contemporary fusion cuisine
In addition to traditional Japanese cuisine, JAPAN MARKET also offers contemporary fusion cuisine. The innovative combination of Japanese and Western ingredients and cooking methods will open up a whole new world to your taste buds. Japanese cuisine with Dutch ingredients and Dutch cuisine with a Japanese twist are just some of the unique dishes that await you here.
Eating and experiencing food culture
At JAPAN MARKET, you can enjoy a variety of Japanese food as you stroll around. You can stroll through the market with a takoyaki or okonomiyaki in hand, or take part in a matcha or sake tasting, among other food-related experiences. There are also workshops and demonstrations on food culture, where you can learn about the history, traditions and etiquette of Japanese food.
City of Leiden and Japanese culture
Leiden's connection with Japan
Leiden is one of the cities in the Netherlands with the closest ties to Japan. Leiden University was the first in Europe to establish a department of Japanese studies and has produced many Japanologists and Japanophiles. Leiden also has an immigrant community from Japan, whose presence has strengthened the links between Leiden and Japan.
A spot where you can experience Japanese culture
Apart from the JAPAN MARKET, there are several other places in Leiden where you can experience Japanese culture. The Leiden National Museum of Ethnology (Museum Volkenkunde) has exhibitions on Asian cultures, including Japan. You can also take a stroll through the beautiful Japanese-style garden at the Japan Museum SieboldHuis and get a taste of Japanese nature and culture.
Special recommendations by Japanese immigrant families
As a Japanese immigrant family living in the Netherlands, we would like to share some recommendations for visitors to the JAPAN MARKET.
"Atariya Foods Netherlands" is the Japanese grocery shop in the Netherlands. Here you can buy imported food and ingredients from Japan, which comes in handy when you miss Japanese food. Or you can find some Japanese food in "Amazing Orinetal" or "Wah Nam Hong", too!
Access and overview of JAPAN MARKET
Date, time and location
The JAPAN MARKET will take place on Sunday 19 May 2024 at Brestraatplein, a square in the centre of Leiden. The square is conveniently located within walking distance of Leiden Central Station and is surrounded by beautiful canals in the historic city centre.
Admission and times
Admission to this event is free and will run from 10am to 6pm. The market will be set up over both indoor and outdoor areas and will take place rain or shine.
Organisers and volunteers
The event is organised by the local Japan-loving community living in Leiden. Through this event, the organisers hope to bring Dutch people closer to the culture and traditions of Japan and to deepen the relationship between the two countries. The event will also involve a large number of volunteers who will give a warm welcome to visitors.
Enter the world of Japan at the JAPAN MARKET
JAPAN MARKET is an unforgettable day out in Leiden, the Netherlands. The event is a celebration for those who love Japan, those who are interested in Japan and those who just want to have a fun day out. You will feel like you have travelled to Japan, experiencing the beauty of Japanese culture, craftsmanship and delicious food. Explore the city of Leiden and its history and connection to Japan, and enjoy the JAPAN MARKET to the fullest.
FAQ
1. Is this event open to everyone?
- Yes, JAPAN MARKET is a free event open to everyone. Anyone with an interest in Japanese culture is welcome.
2.What can I expect at the event?
- JAPAN MARKET will offer a variety of Japanese cultural experiences, including traditional Japanese crafts, art, antiques and delicious food. There are also a variety of participatory activities such as workshops, demonstrations and food culture experiences.
3. Where is this event taking place?
- JAPAN MARKET will take place at Brestraatplein Square, Leiden, the Netherlands. It is conveniently located within walking distance of Leiden Central Station.
4.Will this event take place indoors or outdoors?
- The event takes place both indoors and outdoors. The outdoor plaza will feature food and craft stalls, while the indoor venue will host workshops and demonstrations. The event will take place even if it rains.
5.How often does this event take place?
- JAPAN MARKET is a special annual event. It is scheduled to take place around May each year, so please keep your schedule open!
JAPAN MARKET is an unforgettable day out in Leiden, the Netherlands. The love and passion for Japanese culture is what makes this event so special.