Wajima Morning Market Reopens at New Location

Wajima Morning Market (Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture) was forced to close following a major fire caused by the Noto Peninsula earthquake. However, on July 10, it reopened at a local commercial facility in the city. This was the market's first outing at its new location. Moving forward, the market plans to open daily in alignment with the facility's operating schedule, marking a significant step toward recovery. 

Tomimizu Nagaki, the 55-year-old chairman of the Wajima Asaichi Association, expressed his joy. "Six months after the disaster, we are finally back," he commented.

Community Revival

On this day, approximately 30 shops selling seafood, Wajima lacquerware, and other goods set up stalls. At 9 AM, when the facility opened, residents and those involved in Wajima's recovery efforts began arriving one after another.

Sumiko Yoshimori (75), who bought chopsticks from her favorite shop, spoke about the importance of the market’s revival. "I think the local morning market's return will revitalize the community," she remarked. Eiko Yamagishi (72) purchased sandwiches and vegetables. "Before the disaster, I used to come to the morning market every day for shopping," she shared. "Today, I could finally chat again for the first time in six months."

The venue hosting the market is situated approximately one kilometer south of Asaichi Street, which was struck by a major fire. Orange tents, symbolic of the Wajima Morning Market, were neatly laid out inside the venue.

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(Read the article in Japanese.) 

Author: The Sankei Shimbun