Tsukiji Fish Market | Tokyo

The Tsukiji Fish Market (築地市場, Tsukiji Shijō) was one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks and the largest wholesale fish market in the world until it closed its doors at the end of October 2018. Although the original market is no longer in operation at its previous location, Tsukiji remains a key part of Tokyo’s culinary heritage, and parts of the market, especially the outer market, continue to thrive. Here's a detailed overview of the Tsukiji Fish Market:

History of Tsukiji Market:

Opening and Growth: Tsukiji Market opened in 1935, and for over 80 years, it was the beating heart of Tokyo’s seafood trade. It became world-renowned for its sheer scale, quality of products, and the auction of fresh seafood, especially bluefin tuna.

Significance: The market was critical not just for the local population but for Japan's entire seafood supply chain, distributing seafood all over the country and internationally. Over the years, it became a cultural icon and a major tourist attraction.

The Inner Market and Its Auctions:

Inner Market: The inner market (which was the wholesale area) consisted of various sections selling fish, seafood, meats, fruits, vegetables, and dried goods. It was known for its fast-paced and dynamic atmosphere.

Tuna Auction: The tuna auction was one of the major attractions, drawing crowds of tourists, photographers, and food enthusiasts. The early morning tuna auctions were especially famous, where large frozen tuna were auctioned off to buyers at prices that could reach astronomical figures for premium-quality fish. The auction was a fascinating spectacle, with auctioneers shouting prices and buyers raising their bids.

Operation Hours: The tuna auctions took place before dawn, typically from around 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM, and were held in a specific area of the inner market. Tourists were allowed to watch from designated viewing areas, but strict rules were in place to ensure the smooth operation of the auctions.

Relocation to Toyosu Market:

In October 2018, after much planning, the Tsukiji Fish Market officially relocated its wholesale operations to a new facility in Toyosu, an area in the Koto district of Tokyo. The move was made to modernize the market and ensure better sanitary conditions, traffic flow, and earthquake resistance.

Toyosu Market: The new market, Toyosu Fish Market, is located on an artificial island and includes state-of-the-art facilities for seafood processing, including refrigeration, sanitation, and storage. The Tuna Auction continues at Toyosu, though the public is allowed to visit only in designated areas.

Transition: Despite the wholesale operations moving to Toyosu, Tsukiji’s Outer Market (where food stands, restaurants, and shops were located) remained operational and continues to be a popular tourist destination. The outer market offers fresh seafood, sushi, and other Japanese delicacies to visitors.

The Tsukiji Outer Market:

The Tsukiji Outer Market remains open and is still a vibrant spot where visitors can experience the energy of the old market. Though the inner wholesale market moved to Toyosu, the outer market continues to be a must-visit destination for food lovers in Tokyo.

Food Stalls: Tsukiji's outer market is famous for its street food stalls and small shops selling fresh seafood, traditional Japanese ingredients, and various snacks. Popular items to try include sushi, sashimi, grilled seafood, and traditional Japanese treats like tamago (Japanese omelette) and katsu sandwiches.

Sushi and Sashimi: Tsukiji is particularly famous for sushi and sashimi, with numerous shops offering some of the freshest raw fish available. Many sushi restaurants and stands serve premium, melt-in-your-mouth pieces of fish that are prepared right in front of you.

Street Foods: Visitors can find freshly made taiyaki (fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste or custard), takoyaki (octopus-filled dough balls), and oni-soba (soba noodles served with a rich broth).

Produce and Spices: In addition to seafood, the outer market also sells a variety of Japanese produce and spices. Fresh vegetables, fruits, and traditional Japanese ingredients like wasabi, seaweed, and soy sauce are available for purchase.

Tourism and Dining Experience at Tsukiji:

Sushi Restaurants: Many of the sushi restaurants in Tsukiji, especially those around the outer market, are famed for offering high-quality sushi at reasonable prices. The neighborhood is home to both small counters and famous sushi establishments that cater to tourists and locals alike.

Sushi Dai and Sushi Zanmai are two of the more famous restaurants in the area. Both offer fresh, high-quality sushi and are very popular with tourists, though lines can be long, especially during peak times.

Walking Tours: There are several walking tours available for visitors who wish to learn more about the history of the market, how seafood is traded, and the various types of seafood sold in Japan. Many of these tours offer visits to both the outer market and Toyosu.

Post-Tsukiji: What’s Happening Today?

Although the original Tsukiji Fish Market has closed, Tsukiji as a neighborhood has remained an important part of Tokyo’s food culture and continues to draw tourists from around the world.

Tsukiji Outer Market: As mentioned, the outer market remains a bustling area filled with restaurants and shops that have been part of Tsukiji for decades. This area still serves as a vibrant food destination, offering everything from fresh seafood to traditional Japanese sweets.

Cultural Legacy: Tsukiji's legacy is preserved through the ongoing popularity of its outer market, the continued practice of sushi-making, and the culinary traditions it helped establish. Many people still refer to Tsukiji as a symbol of Tokyo’s seafood culture and a representation of Japan's dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Visiting Tsukiji Today:

Things to Do in Tsukiji:

Explore the Outer Market: Visit the bustling streets of Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can shop for fresh ingredients, street food, and souvenirs. Make sure to try fresh sushi, seafood bowls, or grilled seafood skewers.

Try Fresh Sushi: Tsukiji is still one of the best places in Tokyo to try fresh sushi, and many restaurants offer a variety of dishes, from traditional sushi to more innovative takes on the dish.

Visit the Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple: Located near the Tsukiji market, Tsukiji Hongan-ji is a unique and beautiful Buddhist temple with a rich history and distinctive Indian-style architecture.

Culinary Classes and Tours: Several companies offer sushi-making classes and market tours where you can visit Toyosu, learn about the seafood industry, and then make your own sushi with fresh ingredients.

How to Get There:

• Tsukiji Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line) is the closest subway station to the Tsukiji Outer Market.
• The Toyosu Fish Market is also accessible by public transportation from Tsukiji, with the Yurikamome Line to Toyosu Station.

Conclusion:

While the Tsukiji Fish Market may no longer function in its original form, it remains a living part of Tokyo’s culinary scene. The outer market continues to thrive as a key food destination, and the nearby Toyosu Market now carries on the legacy of seafood trading and tuna auctions. Whether you’re exploring Tokyo’s food scene or learning about the city’s historical markets, Tsukiji is a must-visit for any food lover or cultural enthusiast.