About Gomi no Ichi
At Gomi no Ichi, visitors can purchase seafood brought directly from the boats operating in the surrounding waters. The selection changes with the seasons, offering an opportunity to discover the variety of fish and shellfish caught in the Seto Inland Sea.
Opening days vary according to the season. Until the end of October, the market is normally closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. During oyster season, from November through March, it is generally closed only on Wednesdays. The market usually operates from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., although it may close temporarily during the New Year holidays or in bad weather. As popular products can sell out early, arriving in the morning is recommended.
Fresh Oysters and Unique Local Specialties
Hinase is one of Okayama’s best-known oyster-farming areas, and the market attracts seafood lovers during the winter harvest season. Oyster sales are a major highlight, and the area’s oyster production ranks among the highest in Japan, reportedly second nationally.
One of the market’s most unusual specialties is kaki-furai soft cream, a soft-serve ice cream topped with two pieces of fried oyster. A little sashimi soy sauce is added to create a surprising combination of sweet, savory, and seafood flavors. For adventurous food lovers, it is an original local treat worth trying.
Another popular item is the oyster-packed bento, known locally as Kaki Gorogoro Bento. With its generous serving of oysters, it offers a convenient way to enjoy Hinase’s famous winter seafood while exploring the area.
A Friendly Market with Seasonal Seafood
The market offers a wide range of seasonal catches from the Seto Inland Sea, often at attractive prices. Beyond the seafood itself, part of the experience is the lively atmosphere created by local vendors and fishermen. Their energetic calls and friendly conversations give the market the welcoming character of a traditional fishing community.
Depending on the vendor and the day’s catch, it may also be possible to have fish cleaned or prepared on the spot. Visitors planning to purchase fresh seafood to take home may find it useful to bring a cooler box, especially during warmer weather.
Enjoy More of the Hinase Waterfront
Gomi no Ichi is conveniently located near the passenger boat terminal for services to the Hinase Islands, making it easy to combine a market visit with an island excursion. Directly across from the market is Umi no Eki Shioji, where visitors can enjoy a seafood barbecue featuring fresh local ingredients. Barbecue use requires advance reservations, so arrangements should be made before visiting.
The surrounding area also offers opportunities to discover Hinase’s maritime culture and coastal scenery. After shopping or sampling local seafood, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Minato no Mieru Oka Park, the Kashiko-ura Historical and Cultural Museum, and the BIZEN Latin American Art Museum.
Access to Gomi no Ichi
By Train
Take the JR Ako Line to Hinase Station. From the station, the market is approximately a 15-minute walk west along the national highway. A taxi ride takes about five minutes.
By Bus
From Hinase Station, take the Bizen City Community Bus on the Kashirajima Line and get off at the Gomi no Ichi stop, which provides direct access to the market.
By Car
From the Osaka area, take the Sanyo Expressway and exit at Ako Interchange. Continue west along National Route 250 for approximately 20 minutes to reach the market.
From Okayama, use the Okayama Blue Line from the city’s Route 2 bypass and exit at Bizen-Hinase Interchange. Continue east along the road for approximately seven minutes. Parking is available for around 100 regular vehicles and 10 buses.
From Hinase Port
The market is approximately a 15-minute walk west along the national highway from Hinase Port, making it convenient to visit before or after exploring the harbor area.
Make Gomi no Ichi Part of Your Hinase Visit
Gomi no Ichi is more than a place to buy seafood. It is an opportunity to experience the flavors and everyday culture of a working fishing port on the Seto Inland Sea. For the fullest experience, visit during the oyster season from November to March, sample local specialties such as fried-oyster soft cream, and take time to explore the nearby waterfront and cultural attractions.