A complete introduction to the Handmade Marché!
A basic guide to the number of visitors, frequency, venues, and opening a booth

Hello!kanahina It is😊

Citizen-participatory monozukuri festivals held in various parts of JapanHandmade Marche。
In this article,Definition / Size of visitors / Frequency and location of events / Method of opening stalls / Genres / Characteristics of operationThis is a quick and easy overview of the event, even for first-timers.

If you just want to know the outline and main points first! If you want to know more, please refer to the next "✅ Conclusion.

We have checked the official website and the Internet as much as we can, but the information may be out of date or incorrect, so please check the official website, etc. for the latest information.💕

✅ Conclusion.

What is Handmade Marche?

Creators from all over Japan,directly sell their original works and handmade foods.and handmade food directly from all over Japan.

Yokohama has a track record of attracting 25,000 to 27,000 visitors over a two-day period. The appeal of this market is that visitors can choose one-of-a-kind items while talking with the artist himself/herself, and can consult with the artist about personalization and order placement.
Hands-on workshops are also popular, mainly 30-60 minutes long, open to parents and children, and available on the day of the event or with reservations.

Frequency and Location

Regularly held throughout Japan throughout the year (concentrated in spring, early summer, fall, and winter).
Yokohama, Tokyo, Sapporo, Shizuoka, Hamamatsu, Nagoya, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Kobe, Setouchi, Kokura, HakataThe main venues are large "indoor" venues with easy access to train stations, such as Yokohama, Tokyo, Sapporo, Shizuoka, Hamamatsu, Nagoya, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Kobe, Setouchi, Kokura, and Hakata, so they are not easily affected by weather conditions.

Regional events offer many opportunities to encounter local crafts, and can also be enjoyed for the purpose of "travel x shopping".

How to set up a stall (outline)

Handmade (product sales)First-come-first-served → confirmed upon receipt of paymentis the basic rule.
Food/workshop is subject to review (food labeling, safety, etc. will be checked).
Booth size is based on 1.8m width. Tables, chairs, power supply, and lighting are optional (specifications/charges vary by session, so please check the application guidelines).

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Popular times may fill up on the first day of application. Photos of works and introductions are available at"convey your view of the world".and be prepared.

Main genres

Accessories / small cloth goods and sundries / leather, woodwork, ceramics, glassand other crafts,Illustration, Art, Photography, FashionIn addition tohomemade food(baked goods, honey, coffee, etc.) andworkshopsand workshops.

Examples: brass accessories, natural stone x minimalist, Scandinavian/Korean taste goods, botanical candles, hand-dyed textiles, and many more "photo-worthy" items.

*Details are explained in each of the following sections.

📖 Outline of Handmade Marche

The Handmade Marche is,a "festival of craftsmanship" that directly connects makers and buyers.。
The event is filled with booths selling accessories, miscellaneous goods, crafts, arts, and handmade food, and is also a fun event for parents and children alike.Hands-on workshopsThe standard configuration of the event is that there are also workshops for parents and children to enjoy.

Since most of the events are held at large indoor venues, they are not easily affected by weather conditions, and visitors can tour comfortably.

👥 Approximate number of visitors and size of stalls

One of the largestYokohamaIn the most recent event held in27,100 visitors / 3,211 booths(2-day total).
Although the number of visitors varies depending on the city, the size of the venue, and the season, many of the regional events have several hundred to 1,000 booths, and are characterized by their ability to attract a steady stream of visitors nationwide.

Peak crowds areMorning to early afternoon on the first day. Lines for admission tend to form immediately after the opening, and gradually become easier to get around in the afternoon and evening.
In the case of a two-day event,Morning of the second dayIn the case of a two-day event, the morning of the second day tends to be crowded with visitors who are looking for the most popular booths, while the evening tends to be more relaxed. Since many of the exhibits are one-of-a-kind, you may find it more satisfying to decide when to arrive at the show, depending on whether you prefer to "arrive early to meet the exhibitors first or arrive late to settle down and compare the exhibits.

The layout of the venue is generally centered around booths selling goods, with hands-on workshops and food areas scattered around the booths.
The number of booths selling accessories, small fabric goods, and miscellaneous goods is relatively large, while crafts such as leather, woodwork, ceramics, glass, and art are represented by booths specializing in different materials and techniques.

Popular artists' booths areSold out from morning to early afternoonIn some cases, the booths are re-produced or additional deliveries are made for the second day of the two-day event. If you find a favorite, it is best to make a decision on the spot.

• Approximate ScaleThe largest exhibitions attract more than 25,000 visitors and more than 3,000 booths / Regional exhibitions mainly consist of several hundred to 1,000 booths
• Tips on time of dayImmediately after the show opens = most choices / Afternoon = easy to circulate <(photo/comparison oriented)
• Use of 2-day eventAim for: Knowing the winners on the first day → Buying the main items on the second day, or additional productions on the second day
• Experience & FoodExperience: Reservations for hands-on classes tend to fill up quickly, so register ahead of time after you arrive at the venue→Smooth circulation

🗓️ Frequency and seasonality of events

Held in some city throughout the year, but especially inSpring - early summer / Fall - winterTends to be concentrated in the spring, early summer, fall, and winter. Since most of the events are held indoors, they can be held and visited with relative peace of mind even during periods of extreme heat and stormy weather.

The type of event is as followsSaturday and Sundayis the mainstream, and the time zone isDaytime (e.g., around 10:00-17:00)By city, metropolitan areas tend to be twice a year/regional cities once a year. By city, the trend is metropolitan areas = twice a year / regional cities = once a year (this is only a guideline).
Since the event is held in conjunction with the changing seasons, it is also characterized by its good compatibility with gift demand (Mother's Day, Christmas) and the season of new life and homecoming.

Applications for stalls are available atPrimary information is announced 3-6 months prior to the event.The first round of applications is announced 3 to 6 months prior to the event, and applications are often accepted in stages from the first round to the second round. Since popular events may fill up immediately after the application period begins, it is a good idea to check the list of events on the official website regularly → prepare photos of works, introductions, price lists, etc. in advance to ensure smooth application.

Seasonality is also reflected in the sales of artworks.
Spring - early summer:Practical goods, flowers, and light accessories for new life and Mother's Day move easily.
Autumn:Warm materials such as textiles, leather, and woodworking are popular.
Winter:Demand is likely to increase for gift and holiday items, candles, and baked goods.

Even though it is held indoors,Outdoor flow for loading and unloadingTherefore, it is essential to take precautions against heat stroke in summer and to keep warm in winter. If you need to travel to the venue, it is also a good idea to secure accommodations and parking as early as possible, and to check the time and height restrictions for bringing cars in and out of the venue.

• Approximate frequency:Once or twice a year per city (concentrated in spring/early summer/fall/winter)
• Application Period:3-6 months prior to the event → primary/secondary recruitment (popular events may fill up on the first day)
• Time frame:Mainly held on Saturdays and Sundays during the daytime (around 10:00-17:00)
• Seasonal sales:Spring = new life / Mother's Day, Autumn = materials, Winter = gifts / limited editions
• Practical Notes:Climate measures for carry-in and carry-out / Pre-arrangement of lodging and parking / Pre-confirmation of carry-in rules

📍 Characteristics of Major Venues and Venues

Yokohama (Pacifico Yokohama)and others,Tokyo (Tokyo Dome City, etc.) / Sapporo / Shizuoka / Hamamatsu / Nagoya / Kanazawa / Kyoto (Miyako Messe) / Kobe (International Exhibition Hall) / Setouchi (Okayama) / Kokura (West Japan General Exhibition Center) / Hakata (Fukuoka International Center)Large-scale indoor facilities with good accessibility, such as

The regional events are attractive for visitors to meet local crafts.

🛠️ How to set up a stall (application - flow on the day of the event)

(1) Recruitment and applicationOnline application from each event page.
(2) Confirmation methodHandmade goods sales will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and confirmed upon confirmation of payment.
3) JudgingFood/Workshop: Food/workshop is subject to screening (food hygiene, safety considerations, content confirmation, etc.).
4) PreparationFixtures, lighting, and power supply are optional.
5) On the day of the event5) On the day of the exhibition: Set up prior to the opening→Artists themselves will serve and sell during the exhibition→Take down the booth after the exhibition closes.

Booth fees and equipment prices vary depending on the venue and times (please check the latest application guidelines).

🎨 Main genres of stalls

Accessories／Cloth goods／Leather, woodwork, ceramics／Glass／Illustration, art／Photography／FashionIn addition to crafts such as,Handmade foodandExperience Classesand hands-on classes. Here is a brief summary of specific examples, attractions, and points to consider in choosing the right one, so that even first-timers can easily get an idea of what to expect.

Accessories (earrings, pierced earrings, necklaces, rings, etc.)

Example:Simple earrings of natural stone and 14kgf / earrings of resin and dried flowers / fluctuating brass rings / necklace of surgical stainless steel for allergies
Charm:Many of the pieces are one-of-a-kind and produced in small quantities, and the metal fittings can be exchanged, length adjusted, and personalized after consulting with the artist. Also good for gifts.
How to choose:Check the materials (SV925, 14kgf, 304/316L), whether the metal fittings can be replaced, and the care instructions.

Fabric accessories and sundries (pouches, totes, drawstring, baby items, pet items, etc.)

Example:Scandinavian textile totes / embroidered patch drawstring / water repellent pouches / drool pouch / bandanas for pets
Attractiveness:The careful matching of patterns, lining, and sewing shines through in these genres. You can find the "perfect fit" for your daily life with our size range and custom orders.
How to choose:Check the practicality of the item, such as the seams, reinforced handles, sliding zippers, and the presence or absence of inside pockets.

Leather, woodwork, ceramics, glass (crafts that can be nurtured for a long time)

Example:Leather wallets, key cases, business card cases / Wooden plates, coffee drippers / Mugs, vases, chopstick rests / Heat-resistant glass cups
Attractiveness:You can enjoy the change over time (leather and wood) and the expression of handwork (ceramic and glass scenery). Only handmade products can be repaired and maintained.
How to choose:Check the type of leather (full-veg tan/chrome), the finish of wood (oil/urethane), the glaze on ceramics and the difference from porcelain, and whether it is microwaveable/dishwashable.

Illustration/art/photography/zines/postcards

Examples:Original drawings and giclee prints / Mini frames for guesswork / Travel photo zines / Postcard sets / Live drawings on the spot
Attraction:You can take home the artist's view of the world as a small piece of art. Orders for limited-edition portraits of pets and family members are also popular.
How to choose:Ask about paper quality, printing method (litho/giclee), framing, and the extent of secondary use (social networking icons OK?).

Fashion (clothing, hats, stoles, accessories and small items)

Examples:Hand-dyed shirts / Linen dresses / Knit hats / Hand-woven stoles / Obi remake sakosh
Attraction:The individuality of the artist in choosing patterns and fabrics. Many booths allow customers to try on garments, and you can also ask for advice on sizing and lengthening.
How to choose:Check washing methods, color migration and shrinkage precautions, and whether seasonal colors are available for resale.

Handmade food (baked goods, jams, honey, spices, coffee beans, etc.)

Example:Fermented butter sable / Seasonal fruit jam / Craft honey / Home-roasted coffee beans / Spice mix
Attraction:Mainly small-scale production that focuses on ingredients. It is fun to encounter new tastes through tastings and suggestions for food combinations.
Selection:Check the labeling of ingredients, allergens, best-before date, and storage method, as well as the standard after opening the package (if it is a gift, also check whether it needs to be kept at room temperature/refrigerated).

Hands-on workshops

Example:Resin Accessory Making / Candles / Botanical Swag / Tile Tray / Planting / Beads for Kids
Estimated time required and fees:30-60 minutes, around 1,000-3,000 yen (materials included in most cases)
Tips:Book ahead upon arrival -> circulation is smooth. A bag/protective sheet to carry the finished product is helpful.

• If in doubt, look here:Material labeling / care and warranty / resale availability (and how to contact us for reunion or layaway)
• Gift selection tips:Size adjustment / Personalization / Mounting, box, and wrapping
• Trends in photo-quality:Natural stone x minimalist hardware / Dried flower x resin / Raw fabric x embroidery / Unglazed porcelain x nuanced glaze
• Conversation points with the artist:Production background, particular materials, recommended combinations, aftercare

🏢 Characteristics of the operating company

Arkphilia Inc.(Arcphilia Inc.) is a creative company that aims to connect "creation" with society.
In addition to web/graphic production and management of creator support media, Arcphilia Inc,planning and managing handmade marché events across the country.We are responsible for the planning and operation of handmade marche events throughout Japan, and we are developing events with a certain level of quality while taking advantage of the unique characteristics of each region.

• Nationwide Expansion x StandardizationThe event is designed to make it easy for first-time exhibitors to find their way around, with a guide for exhibitors, venue layout, displays, and safety rules.
• Migration and experience designZoning and route planning for sales, workshops, and food maximize encounters with artworks (e.g., photo spots/rest areas, etc.).
• Safety and securitySafety: Standardize basic operations such as reception flow lines, security/first aid, power and fire protection, and lost-and-found.
• Public relations and customer attraction support: Vendor listings on official website, venue map, recommended hashtag information, etc.Discoverability before coming to the eventbefore coming to the event.
• Support for stall holdersSupport for stall holders: from recruitment to the day of the event, including email guidance, FAQs, information on delivery vehicles, and fixtures/power supply options.

As a result, stable visitor experience and stall opening experience are provided at each location.
An operational infrastructure that makes it easy for repeat visitors to participate supports a sense of confidence in the event series as a whole.

⚠️ Points to keep in mind when opening a stall or visiting the event (simple check)

• Rights and Display: Sell only original works. Pay attention to copyrights and trademarks / Food products must be labeled according to laws and regulations and allergy information must be indicated thoroughly.
• SettlementCash + cashless (QR/card) is recommended. Prepare receipts, change, and spare batteries.
• Fixtures and safetySafety: Increase visibility with height direction and lighting, and take measures against tipping over, breakage, and theft. Design flow lines to secure aisles.
• CommunicationDesign after-sales follow-up with artwork cards (materials, care instructions) and SNS/shop QR.

❓Frequently Asked Questions

We have researched as much as we could find, but the information may be out of date or incorrect, so please check the official website, etc. for the latest information!💕

🎯Summary

Direct connection between makers and buyersOne of the largest events in Japan. You can hear the background of the work and the particulars of the materials from the artists themselves, which gives you a sense of satisfaction that you cannot get from online purchases.

Regularly held in various locations throughout the year(Mostly held from spring to early summer and from fall to winter). Many of the venues are large indoor venues, making it easy to visit regardless of the weather or season.

Stalls are first-come, first-served (goods sales) + judging (food/experience).The rules are clear. The operational flow from recruitment to the day of the event is well organized and designed to make it easy for first-time vendors to prepare for the event.

A lineup with local flavor and hands-on classesMany repeaters come back to the event. Local crafts, limited workshops, and other "only here" fun.

A sense of security in the operating baseGuides, display rules, and flow line design are standardized to ensure a safe and smooth venue experience.

First, you can search from the list of nationwide venues for the city you are interested in.Dates, Application Guidelines, Booth Specificationsand booth specifications for the city you are interested in!

• For those who wish to open a booth｜Next Step
  Bookmark the list of events → Check the advance notice of the start of application → Prepare photos of your work (front, worn/used, group), introduction, price list, and means of payment → Select desired booth and options (table/power supply/lighting) → Enter on the first day of application.
• For those planning to visit｜Next step
  Check the venue MAP in advance → Note down the genres/artists you would like to see → Decide on the time of entry (crowded/focus on circulation) → Book workshops as soon as you arrive → Prepare payment (cash + cashless), eco-bags, and protective materials.
• Seasonal points
  Spring = Gifts for new life & Mother's Day / Autumn = Leather, woodworking, and other materials / Winter = Aim for holiday-specific & baked goods.
• Tips to avoid regretting your purchase
  Check materials, care, sizing, resale/order availability, and SNS/EC guidance on the spot.

Handmade Marche is a valuable opportunity for artists and visitors to connect directly.
Stall holders can enjoy new discoveries and experiences through their works, and visitors can enjoy new discoveries and experiences through their works.
We hope you will join us at the next one!😊