A Glimpse into Kinjo Night Market: Reviving Kinjo Market with New Energy

People gathering outside Kinjo Market at night, with the market brightly lit and vibrant decorations visible through the windows

Kinjo Market (金城市場), nestled in Nagoya’s Kita-ku, exudes retro Showa-era charm with its rusty, old-fashioned appeal. But once a month, it transforms into the vibrant “Kinjo Night Market,” infusing fresh energy into the community and becoming one of the Nagoya’s cool hidden night markets, bringing renewed energy to the local community. On this particular night, we decided to check out the fourth edition, themed around “health.”

 

 

 

It felt local, yet wonderfully diverse!

Inside Kinjo Market at night, bustling with people enjoying various activities, including a massage session in the foreground.

 

 

 

As soon as we stepped into Kinjo Market, it felt like we’d been whisked away to a bustling Asian bazaar. The vibrant colors and the palpable energy of the crowd were infectious. From cozy bars and coffee shops to Taiwanese cuisine and various ethnic delights, there was no shortage of excitement and community spirit – it was as if the entire neighborhood was throwing a party, and we were lucky enough to join in!

 

 

 

A vendor serving drinks at a stall in Kinjo Market.
Taiwan-themed drinking stall bustling with customers.

 

 

 

A lively scene inside Kinjo Market, with people mingling and enjoying the atmosphere under the wooden beams of the market's ceiling
Handcrafted repairs are being made to the old, worn-out market ceiling.

 

 

A child enjoying cotton candy at Kinjo Market, with other visitors and vibrant decorations in the background.
A kid enjoying cotton candy.

 

 

A man playing a 1970s retro arcade game at Kinjo Market, surrounded by colorful decorations and lively market activity
A retro 1970s Invader game.

 

 

What stood out was the inclusivity and diversity of the event. Not only were adults indulging in food and drink, but kids also had their fair share of fun with candy shops and game corners. It truly was a family-friendly affair that brought joy to everyone involved.

 

 

 

The night at Kinjo Market was more than just an event!

 

People gathered outside Kinjo Market at night, with the market's bright lights and decorations visible through the windows

 

 

In the backdrop of Japan’s growing number of vacant homes, with Nagoya being no exception, Kinjo Market stands as a beacon of urban renewal. This market has turned empty spaces into vibrant community hubs, breathing new life into the area while preserving its historical charm.

 

 

 

An elderly vendor serving customers at a stall specializing in Kuroge Wagyu beef inside Kinjo Market.
An elderly meat vendor, the last remaining tenant, still operating in Kinjo Market

 

 

Rather than erasing the past, Kinjo Market beautifully integrates it with the present, creating a meaningful and lively space. Walking through the market, we felt the warmth of the lights and the even warmer smiles, a reminder of the comfort and connection that such community spaces can foster.

 

 

The night at Kinjo Market was more than just an event; it was an experience of nostalgia, community, and a hopeful glimpse into how old spaces can find new life.

 

 

 

Kinjo Market（金城市場）

5−32−22 Shimizu Kita-ku, Nagoya

 

 

 

 

 

LOCATION

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