2027 Hatsu-ichi (Daruma Market)

About this event

Held every year on January 11, the "Hatsu-ichi (Daruma Market)" is an annual event where about 300 stalls stretch for approximately 400 meters along Kamigawara-dori near JR Utsunomiya Station, selling lucky charms and other goods. Various lucky charms are sold, including daruma dolls, rakes (kumade), and items unique to Utsunomiya such as "Kibuna" (yellow carp) and "Mame-daiko" (small drums). The daruma dolls vary in size from 10 cm to over 70 cm tall, and when a large daruma is sold, wooden clappers and drums are beaten spiritedly during a rhythmic ceremonial hand-clapping (tejime) to invite prosperity. Locally known as "Daruma-ichi," it also attracts many visitors, especially students, who enjoy snacking on street foods. The Hatsu-ichi has a long history, having been held in this area since the Edo period, and the scenes from that era are depicted in the relief at Saiwaibashi bridge. Each year, multiple shops offer "daruma," "kibuna," and "kumade" as the "three sacred lucky treasures," with "kibuna" being an auspicious item unique to Utsunomiya. In addition, "denden daiko" (pellet drums) are sold as lucky charms to invite good fortune and longevity and ward off evil and disasters. At the food stalls, along with classic foods like "okonomiyaki," "takoyaki," and "yakisoba," you can enjoy trendy gourmet items such as "hattogu" (Korean corn dogs) and "light bulb soda." "Ni-ika" (simmered squid) is a street-stall dish frequently seen in Tochigi Prefecture, western Ibaraki Prefecture, and parts of Gunma Prefecture, which is said to be a remnant of rehydrating dried squid for consumption in times when fresh seafood was difficult to obtain.

Venue

Kamigawara-dori Street

Kamigawara-dori, Utsunomiya, Tochigi