Explore the Autumn Delights of Gifu at the Gifu Marugoto Fair in Tokyo

Discover the Gifu Marugoto Fair in Tokyo

As autumn blankets Gifu Prefecture, it brings along a unique selection of local delicacies and traditional crafts that embody the region's rich cultural heritage. This year, the Gifu Marugoto Fair is returning to Tokyo for its second installment, running from October 8th to 14th, 2023, at the Matsuzakaya Ueno Store. This fair showcases a handpicked collection of Gifu’s finest produce, with a special highlight on the beloved chestnut sweets, or kurikinton, crafted with the freshest seasonal ingredients.

A Taste of Gifu’s Bounty

Gifu’s geography is marked by the beautiful Hida Mountains and the flowing Kiso Three Rivers—Kiso, Nagara, and Ibi—which nurture a landscape perfect for agriculture. Autumn marks the peak harvest season, with an abundance of fruits such as persimmons, apples, and of course, chestnuts. The Gifu Marugoto Fair aims to share this bounty with visitors in Tokyo, allowing them to taste the season’s finest offerings. Alongside kurikinton, attendees can also delight in a variety of products including:

- Meibo Ham - a renowned local specialty from Gifu
- Takayama Ramen - famous for its savory flavor
- A selection of sake, including the Junmai Ginjo variety from Ena
- Traditional sweets made from seasonal nuts and fruits

With over 300 products curated for this fair, every booth promises a delectable experience reflecting Gifu's autumnal essence.

Workshop Experiences

In addition to food, the fair is enriched with cultural experiences. From October 11th to 13th, visitors can engage in hands-on workshops that highlight traditional Gifu crafts. Attendees can try their hand at painting bonbori (traditional lanterns) and creating sarubobo dolls, iconic to Takayama. These activities not only provide a practical insight into Gifu’s cultural heritage but also allow participants to create memorable souvenirs of their visit.

- Bonbori Painting: October 11 & 12
- Sarubobo Doll Making: October 13

The workshops are open to the public for a fee and require prior registration through a QR code provided at the fair. This initiative not only promotes local craft but also instills a sense of pride and appreciation for Gifu's artistic endeavors.

Attend the Gifu Marugoto Fair

If you’re in Tokyo or planning to visit, don’t miss this opportunity to explore regional favorites from Gifu Prefecture. The fair is set in the North Arcade of Matsuzakaya Ueno Store, located at 3-29-5 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo. It runs daily from 10 AM to 8 PM. Come and indulge in the authentic tastes of autumn while immersing yourself in Gifu's rich cultural tapestry.

For ongoing updates and further information, attendees can reach out to the event organizers through various contacts provided at the fair.

Conclusion

The Gifu Marugoto Fair represents more than just a culinary event; it’s a celebration of Gifu's seasonal richness and cultural vibrancy. Whether you are a local, a tourist, or simply a lover of good food, this fair promises a delightful journey into the heart of Gifu during one of its most picturesque seasons. Save the date and explore all that Gifu has to offer this autumn!