SEAFOOD | TSUKIJI FISH MARKET

Chuo-ku, Tokyo

The Tsukiji Fish Market consists of a few blocks with narrow alleys lined up with wholesale and retail shops a long with restaurants and food stands. Within these shops, you can find fresh seafood, produce, delicious seafood and even kitchen items like knives. A visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market can include a sushi breakfast or lunch as the restaurants and shops are typically opened at 5am and opened until a little past noon. Most of the seafood sold here comes directly from the Toyosu Fish Market, making it one of the best places to enjoy fresh seafood in Tokyo.

The Tsukiji Fish Market opened up in 1935 when it replaced a different fish market in Nihonbashi that was destroyed in the Great Kanto earthquake in 1923. This market was the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world until it moved in 2018 to the Toyosu Fish Market which is where the current fish market is located. Although it relocated, most of the shops and stores remain in Tsukiji, making it a unique place to visit for seafood.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the following:

• Lots of food stalls selling fresh seafood such as fried octopus, skewered fish and fried clams

• The nearby Namiyoke Shrine that looks after the area

• Many shops selling goods such as knives and kitchen tools

• Counter style sushi restaurants

Photo Credit: Japan Guide

How to get there

A 1 minute walk from the Tsukiji Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line or a 1 minute walk from the Tsukijishijo Station on the Tokyo Metro Toei Oedo Line.