From April 13 to 19, 2026, Ueno Station is set to host the exciting Iwate Local Market. Organized in collaboration with JR East's Morioka branch and JR East Aomori Commercial Development, this initiative aims to promote regional sustainability and tourism. The event will take place in the Grand Concourse outside the central ticket gate of JR Ueno Station, running daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, except for the opening day which starts at 11 AM and the final day concluding at 6 PM.
Local Delicacies on Offer
Attendees can look forward to an enticing array of products sourced directly from Iwate Prefecture. Sample delightful regional specialties such as:
- - Chiyoko-chan's sesame grinding dumplings
- - Shiwa Monduable 2022 and Shiwa Premium Merlot 2022
- - Supervised by Ogata, the famous Maezawa beef, served with Morioka cold noodles.
Special Highlight: Hakobun Service
One of the standout features of this market will be the use of the "Hakobun" train luggage transport service, which will allow for special local delicacies to be brought in via the Tohoku Shinkansen. Two limited-time offerings made available on April 15 and 17 will include:
- - An-butter sandwich from Fukuda bakery in Morioka
- - Hanamaki Onsen anpan from Hanamaki Onsen Co.
- - Sakura anpan also from Hanamaki Onsen Co.
Note: Availability of Hakobun items may be subject to change based on train operations.
Tourist Promotion Area
Within the market venue, a special area will be set up to promote tourism in Iwate. Visitors can catch promotional videos showcasing the stunning sights of Iwate, as well as collect brochures and learn about the hometown tax donation system that supports local initiatives.
Opening Ceremony
Mark your calendars for the opening ceremony on April 13 at around 11:20 AM, where guests can experience performances by the local mascots "Sobacchi" and "Oofuna-ton." There will also be a display of the renowned Morioka Sansa Odori dance from the JR East Group's Sansa Odori Execution Project.
Mascot Appearances
The beloved local characters, Sobacchi and Oofuna-ton, will be present for meet-and-greet sessions, allowing attendees to take memorable photos with them. The schedule for mascot appearances is as follows:
- - Sobacchi: April 13 at 2:30 PM, April 18 at 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM, and April 19 at 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM.
- - Oofuna-ton: April 13 at 2:30 PM, April 14 at 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM.
Please note: All event details, including the schedule and activities, are subject to change. We appreciate your understanding. Images featured in this release are for illustrative purposes only.