If you’ve ever dreamed of going to Japan but immediately remembered flights are expensive, long, and involve sitting next to a stranger for 14 hours… good news. There’s a place in Columbus that feels like a tiny portal straight to Japan. No passport required. No jet lag. No crying in an airplane bathroom.
Welcome to Japan Marketplace.
And yes, it really is like traveling to Japan without leaving Ohio.
What Is Japan Marketplace (And Why Does It Feel So Special)?
Japan Marketplace is a small plaza on the northwest side of Columbus that feels completely different from anything else around it. You pull in expecting a normal strip mall and suddenly… boom. Japanese architecture. Peaceful landscaping. Calm energy. Your blood pressure drops two points immediately.
Right in the center of the plaza is a beautiful Japanese-style garden area with thoughtfully designed greenery and trees. I think some of them are Japanese weeping willows, but don’t quote me on that. What I can confidently say is that it’s serene, intentional, and wildly not-Ohio in the best way possible.
The only things missing are mountains and a volcano in the distance. Other than that… pretty convincing.
A Quick Backstory
Japan Marketplace exists because of Takashi Takenaka, who grew up in a small village in Japan and spent much of his childhood fishing in nearby streams. Food and tradition were a huge part of his upbringing, especially meals made by his mother.
After moving to the U.S., he opened Akai Hana in 1987, one of Central Ohio’s first Japanese restaurants. Then came Tensuke Market, a Japanese grocery and seafood store. Over the next 30+ years, that love for Japanese cuisine and culture grew into what we now know as Japan Marketplace, home to six unique Japanese businesses.
The goal has always been simple. Share authentic Japanese food, products, and culture with the Columbus community… and create that same sense of comfort and well-being that comes from a really good meal.
Mission very much accomplished.
The Shops That Make Japan Marketplace So Addictive
There are six Japanese businesses at Japan Marketplace, and I’ve only made it to three so far. I can confidently say this though… every single one punches way above its weight.
Belle’s Bread (AKA the reason I keep coming back)
Belle’s Bread is not a normal bakery. It’s a Japanese bakery, which means everything looks familiar and unfamiliar at the same time.
You’ll find:
- Flaky croissants
- Matcha-flavored treats
- Matcha soft serve
- And the iconic Frank Roll
If you’ve never had a Frank Roll, let me explain. It’s a hot dog wrapped in soft dough, baked, then drizzled with ketchup and herbs. It sounds ridiculous. It tastes incredible. I will defend it with my life.
Tensuke Market (Not Your Average Grocery Store)
Tensuke Market is one of those places where you walk in and immediately realize how limited your normal grocery store actually is.
This is where you’ll find:
- Fresh seafood you’re not finding at Kroger
- Japanese pantry staples
- Snacks you’ve only seen online
- Bento boxes and prepared foods that somehow taste homemade and professional at the same time
Even if you don’t know exactly what you’re buying, that’s half the fun.
Tensuke Ramen (Comfort Food Perfection)
Right next door is Tensuke Ramen, which serves up some of the most comforting bowls of ramen in the city. Rich broth. Perfect noodles. Zero nonsense.
This is the kind of place you go on a cold day, a bad day, or honestly just a Tuesday when you want to feel something.
Why Japan Marketplace Is One of the Most Unique Spots in Columbus
Columbus has a lot of great food. A lot of cool neighborhoods. A lot of hidden gems. But Japan Marketplace is different.
It’s not themed. It’s not trying to be trendy. It’s not watered down for Instagram.
It’s authentic.
You’re not just grabbing food. You’re stepping into a space that celebrates Japanese culture, traditions, and craftsmanship in a way that feels genuine and respectful. It’s calm. It’s welcoming. It’s quietly incredible.
And somehow… it’s still flying under the radar.
Why You Need to Go (Like, Soon)
If you’re looking for:
- One of the most unique experiences in Columbus
- A cultural gem that doesn’t feel forced
- Food that will ruin your normal grocery store forever
- A mini escape without leaving Ohio
Japan Marketplace needs to be on your list.
I’ve only scratched the surface, and I already know I’ll be back many, many times. Honestly, the hardest part is deciding which shop to hit first.
Or you could do what I do and hit as many as possible in one trip.
Yeah. That’s the move.
🎌 Japan Marketplace | 1169 Old Henderson Rd, Columbus, OH 43220
Food & Drink Guides
Attention Central Ohio Business Owners!
We built the Step Out advertising program for local businesses that want to get in front of locals in Central Ohio — people actively looking for places to eat, shop, and explore.
A business we advertised even had to hire 2 more people after working with us.
Curious if we’re a good fit for your business?
👉 Learn about our audience
Already thinking, “This sounds perfect for us”?
👉 Learn more about our ads
