Osaka Kizu Market Live Auction – Open to Everyone!

Located in Naniwa Ward, Osaka, Kizu Wholesale Market (Kizu Ichiba) is one of Osaka’s three major markets with over 300 years of history. On the 2nd and last Saturday of each month, during the popular “Kizu Morning Market” event, visitors can take part in a unique Live Fish Auction experience

What is the Live Auction?

Normally reserved for professional wholesalers, this event allows the general public to watch and even participate in a real fish auction. The energetic voices of auctioneers, the fresh catch laid out on ice, and the lively atmosphere all capture the true spirit of “Osaka’s Kitchen.” It’s a must-see experience for visitors and families alike.

Event details

Venue: Kizu Wholesale Market, 2-2-8 Shikitsuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka

Time: Around 9:00 AM to 12 AM

Days: Every 2nd and last Saturday of the month (during Kizu Morning Market)

Access: 3-minute walk from Daikokucho Station (Exit 1, Osaka Metro Midosuji Line)

Admission Fee: Free (no reservation required)

How the Experience Works

1. Meet at the market entrance and receive a short explanation from staff.
2. Watch a real auction in action – or try bidding for fun!
3. Take photos (where permitted) and get a close look at the fresh seafood.
4. Explore the rest of the morning market – with stalls selling sushi, dried fish, produce, and more.
5. The whole market comes alive during the morning fair, making it one of the most energetic and authentic market experiences in Osaka.

Highlights

Real Fish Auction Access – Get close to the action usually seen only by professionals.
Local Market Vibes – Enjoy Osaka’s famous “Naniwa spirit” with lively merchants and food stalls.
Fresh & Affordable Food – Try fresh sushi, sashimi, seafood bowls, and hot breakfast dishes.
Family-Friendly & Educational – Great chance for kids to learn about Japanese food culture.

Regular Market Hours (Outside Auction Days)

Hours: 4:00 AM – 11:00 AM (varies by store)
Closed: Sundays, national holidays, and occasional Wednesdays
Recommended Time: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM is the best time for general visitors to experience a lively market. After 11:00 AM, many vendors start to close.
Access: Daikokucho Station, Osaka Metro Midosuji or Yotsubashi Line
Parking: Available (paid, often crowded during morning market)
Even on regular days, visitors can freely walk inside the market. Many vendors sell fresh seafood, vegetables, and local specialties, and there are small restaurants serving hearty breakfast meals loved by locals.

Conclusion

The Kizu Market Live Auction is a one-of-a-kind, free experience that lets you feel the heartbeat of Osaka’s traditional food scene. Whether you’re a foodie, photographer, or curious traveler, this event is the perfect way to spend a vibrant morning in the city.

*Schedules and event contents may change without notice. For the latest information, please check the official Kizu Market website.

Kizu Market live Auction & Seafood Cooking Class

Our English-speaking guide will walk you through a live seafood auction — no Japanese required!
Afterwards, enjoy a hands-on Seafood Cooking Class using your freshly won ingredients.

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