The Japan Market features Japanese-inspired vendors and food trucks at various locations in Vancouver. The events usually run for one or two days each season.

The fall edition of the Japan Market runs on September 14th and 15th, 2024, at the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza.

Japanese Market in Vancouver

The Japan Market is a small market full of Japanese products. Taking place a few times a year at different locations in Vancouver, the event is a wonderful way to learn about Japanese culture.

The Japan Market is organized by three Japanese Vancouverites, all of whom also sell their own products. Yuko, Mami and Yurie put together impressive markets almost every season each year. There is typically a large variety of products to check out, including everything from food and art to clothing and accessories. Sometimes, there is live entertainment to enjoy as well.

TIP: Another fabulous market is the Shipyards Night Market. It takes place on Fridays in North Vancouver. The event features artisan vendors, live music, a beer garden and free admission.

2024 Dates and Locations

This year, the first Japan Market happened on the weekend of March 1st to 3rd. It was held at Robson Square. The spring edition ran from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm on the Friday and 10:00 am until 5:00 pm on both the Saturday and Sunday.

The summer market took place on Saturday, June 8th and Sunday, June 9th. This edition of the Japan Market happened at the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on both days.

The fall edition is on the weekend of September 14th and 15th at the Robson Square Ice Rink. The market runs from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on both days.

Finally, the winter market is at the same location on December 7th and 8th. It also runs from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on both days.

Admission

Tickets are required for most Japan Market events. Admission to the 2024 markets cost $5 for one adult or $9 for two adults. Tickets purchased at least one day in advance cost $1 less per person. Kids under the age of 16 enter for free.

Market Vendors and Entertainment

The Japan Market offers plenty of different products and things to see. The exact number of vendors varies at each event, although you can usually expect to see at least 70 different tables during the markets with nicer weather.

In the fall of 2024, the September 14th and 15th event features many different vendors selling food, clothing, handmade jewellery, arts and crafts, and more. The event starts at 10:00 am and concludes at 5:00 pm.

Featured vendors include AKA HANNYA, ZAWA Pottery, Ibis Japan Handmade, Samurai Apparel, and many more.

Live entertainment is also a part of most of the Japan Markets. The 2024 summer edition includes performances by Aikido, Vancouver Okinawa Taiko, and APPARE Yosakoi Vancouver.