Database: Medieval Daily Markets

At the end of the Middle Ages, markets were typically held six times per month on the outskirts of towns or villages throughout Japan. Markets offered a variety of goods that were not available in stores in the town or village. Market days are, for example, only held on days with 1 and 6 (1st, 6th, 11th, 16th, 21st and 26th), but thanks to the other markets held on other days of the month in the surrounding area, there can be one every day within a certain distance.

Thanks to the Ippen Hijiri-e, a painted scroll from the 14th century, we can understand that each market was equipped with roofs supported by poles, where stalls were set up on market days. At each marketplace, stalls were set up using posts that supported a roof which marked that seller's designated area. Each spot was reserved for traders who traveled regular routes between markets in neighboring towns and villages. As such, it was rather difficult for new sellers to find a good spot to display their stock. They were typically regulated to the fringes where pedestrian traffic was much lower, and business opportunities were likewise reduced. Their best chance a t securing a more advantageous position came with the establishment of new daily markets. To ensure a good start with many sellers, space was available for anyone wanting to claim a spot.