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Do you have a keen eye for antiques?
If so, save the date for the Setagaya Boroichi Fair on the 15th and 16th of December and January, where you can find a wide variety of antiques, arts and crafts, interior decorations, fashion items, books, plants and more!
The History of the Setagaya Boroichi Fair
The fair originally started as a flea market for the farmers around the 1570s, where they exchanged used farming clothes. As most of them were old and raggedy – colloquially called “boro boro” – people started calling it a Boroichi, the name we still use today even though the items on sale are more presentable.
During its peak, there were around two thousand stalls lining up right next to each other, providing not only everyday items but also food and entertainment. Today, about 700 stalls display their treasures, some centuries old, others unknown.
Japanese Culture & History at the Setagaya Boroichi Fair
You don’t have to be the expert of antiques to enjoy this fair. Just stroll down the street and see what people have in store. A plethora of random items will give you a glimpse into Japanese history and nostalgia.
Though the fair is held in a quiet suburb of Setagaya ward, it attracts approximately 200,000 visitors every year. The number alone is a enough testament for a visit, right? If you are fed up with the latest and greatest of what Japan has to offer, visit Boroichi for a change. You might find it very refreshing.
How to Get to the Setagaya Boroichi Fair
To get to the fair, hop on a cute tram called the Setagaya line and get off at Kamimachi Station. I suggest getting there early so you can have a better look at the treasures from the past and perhaps keep some for yourself. Enjoy!
Information
Date: Dec.15& 16th Jan. 15th & 16th
Hours: 9am to 6pm
Fee: Free
Access: Setagaya Line Kamimachi Station
URL: www.city.setagaya.lg.jp/setagaya/001/003/d00125000.html (Japanese)
