Tokaichi (Tenth Day Market)

Every year on the 10th of January, stalls are set up along the main shopping street in the center of Aizu-Wakamatsu. At this time of year in Aizu it is very cold and the city is covered in snow so this traditional winter market is very picturesque. It is the largest winter market in the Aizu area and regularly attracts over 100,000 visitors. At the stalls it has long been a tradition for people to buy Fusha (colorful, paper windmills) and Okiagari Koboshi (small round bottom dolls that cannot be knocked over) as lucky charms. Shoppers also buy Ichiame (market candy), which is only on sale at the market.

The sight of snow falling under the bright lights of the stalls creates a vivid image of Aizu in winter. Japanese visitors from outside the Aizu area usually enjoy listening to the distinct Aizu accent of the stall-keepers and local customers as it evokes images of warm-hearted, country people from the north.

On this day many people also go to Shinmei Temple near the market to pray for their family's safety and for good luck during the year.