Tsukiji Outer Market (Tsukiji Fish Market), Tokyo

Tsukiji Outer Market (築地場外市場, Tsukiji Jōgai Shijō) was formerly the main fish market in Tokyo, renowned for its lively fish auctions. In October 2018, the wholesale functions and tuna auctions were relocated to the newly constructed Toyosu Market. Despite this move, Tsukiji remains a vibrant hub of traders, food suppliers, kitchen equipment vendors, and some of Tokyo's top restaurants, preserving its rich culinary culture.

How to Get to Tsukiji Outer Market

Address: 4-16-2, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan

• Toei Oedo Line (都営大江戸線) – Tsukijishijo Station (築地市場駅), a 1-minute walk
• Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line (東京メトロ日比谷線) – Tsukiji Station (築地駅), a 1-minute walk
• Toei Asakusa Line (都営浅草線) – Higashi-Ginza Station (東銀座駅), a 3-minute walk
• Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line (東京メトロ日比谷線) – Higashi-Ginza Station (東銀座駅), a 3-minute walk

History of Tsukiji Outer Market

Tsukiji Outer Market or Tsukiji Fish Market, originally part of the Tokyo Central Wholesale Market, opened on February 11, 1935, replacing the Nihonbashi fish market destroyed in the 1923 Great Kantō Earthquake. Extensive research and planning went into its design, making it one of Tokyo's significant reconstruction projects post-earthquake.

For decades, Tsukiji served as a major hub for seafood and other goods. In October 2018, the primary wholesale operations, including the famous tuna auctions, were relocated to the newly established Toyosu Market. Despite this move, the Tsukiji Outer Market remains vibrant, with numerous small stalls, restaurants, and cafés continuing to offer fresh produce and prepared foods.

Today, Tsukiji Outer Market is a key destination on Tokyo’s culinary map, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Japanese flavors. It stands as a historic landmark where people come not only for the food but also for the vibrant atmosphere, cultural heritage, and unique market experience.

What You Can Find at Tsukiji Fish Market

Tsukiji Outer Market offers a unique experience for travelers eager to delve into Japanese culture and cuisine. Despite the relocation of the inner wholesale market to Toyosu in 2018, the outer market remains a bustling hub with over 400 vendors, including small stalls, restaurants, and cafés, preserving its authentic atmosphere.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant environment, interacting with local vendors and observing artisans at work. The market is renowned for its wide array of gourmet goods, such as fresh seafood, essential Japanese culinary ingredients, sauces, seasonings, dried fish, and seaweed. Additionally, shoppers can find premium rice, soy sauce, pickled vegetables, and a variety of spices.

Beyond food, Tsukiji Outer Market is famous for its street food stalls, offering traditional Japanese dishes. It's also an excellent place to purchase kitchen utensils, including high-quality Japanese knives, tableware, and unique souvenirs. This combination makes the market an ideal destination for food enthusiasts and those seeking original gifts.

In summary, Tsukiji Outer Market remains a significant landmark on Tokyo's gastronomic map, offering an authentic glimpse into traditional Japanese flavors and market culture. It's a destination where visitors can savor the atmosphere, engage with local traditions, and enjoy a memorable culinary adventure.

Best Places to Eat in Tsukiji Outer Market

Sushi & Seafood Restaurants

For the freshest sushi and sashimi, head to these popular eateries:

• Sushi Dai (寿司大) – Famous for its high-quality sushi, this legendary restaurant is worth the early morning wait.
• Tsukiji Uogashi Sandaime (築地魚河岸三代目) – Specializing in premium tuna, including the coveted otoro (fatty tuna), sourced directly from Toyosu Market.
• Kaisendon Oedo (海鮮丼 大江戸) – A must-visit for its signature seafood rice bowls loaded with fresh fish and shellfish.

Street Food & Local Delicacies

Try these market-favorite dishes while exploring:

• Tamagoyaki (玉子焼き) at Yamachō – A sweet, fluffy Japanese omelet, served warm.
• Grilled Scallops (焼き帆立) at Marutake Suisan – Fresh scallops grilled with butter and soy sauce for a smoky, umami-packed flavor.
• Yakitori (焼き鳥) at Toritō – Grilled chicken skewers seasoned with salt or tare sauce.
• Taiyaki (たい焼き) at Naruto Taiyaki – Fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste, perfect for dessert.

Best Shops for Food & Ingredients

Fresh Seafood & Dried Goods

• Tsukiji Uogashi (築地魚河岸) – A collection of seafood vendors offering everything from fresh tuna to dried fish.
• Iseya (伊勢屋) – Specializing in tsukudani (seaweed and seafood simmered in soy sauce).
• Yamachō (やまちょう) – Famous for high-quality katsuobushi (bonito flakes) used in dashi broth.

Fruits, Vegetables & Seasonings

• Kato’s Fresh Produce (加藤青果店) – Seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from across Japan.
• Yasaiya Mei (野菜屋 めい) – Specializing in traditional Japanese greens like shiso and wasabi leaves.
• Yamagen Shoyu (山源醤油店) – A go-to shop for premium soy sauce and Japanese seasonings.

Coffee, Tea & Desserts

Traditional Tea Houses

• Kissako Cha (喫茶去茶) – A tranquil spot serving premium green teas and matcha.
• Yamamotoyama (山本山) – Known for high-quality sencha and gyokuro tea leaves. 

Coffee & Sweets

• Turret Coffee (ターレットコーヒー) – A specialty café named after the iconic market transport carts, famous for its rich espresso.
• Tsukiji Chōjō (築地長城) – A hidden gem for Japanese-style sweets and seasonal wagashi.

Tsukiji Outer Market’s Opening Hours

• General Hours: The market typically operates from 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
• Best Time to Visit: Arriving early, especially between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, allows visitors to experience the market at its liveliest.
• Closed Days: The market is generally closed on Sundays, national holidays, and some Wednesdays.

Visitor Guidelines

• Professional Buyers’ Priority: Before 9:00 AM, the market primarily serves professional buyers. Visitors are encouraged to arrive after this time to avoid interfering with business activities.
• Eating Etiquette: Food should be consumed inside the establishment where it was purchased or in designated areas. Eating while walking is discouraged to maintain cleanliness and order.
• Luggage and Bags: Due to narrow pathways, bringing large bags or luggage is not recommended. Coin-operated lockers are available nearby for storage.
• Group Size: Navigating the market in small groups is advised, as large groups can obstruct the flow of foot traffic in the confined spaces.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of vendors or their products. Some shops may have signs prohibiting photography.
• Handling Products: Refrain from touching merchandise, especially fresh seafood and produce, unless explicitly permitted by the vendor.
• Pricing: The market operates on fixed pricing, reflecting the quality of goods. Haggling is not customary and is discouraged.
• Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited within the market area, except in designated smoking zones.

By following these guidelines, visitors can ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience at Tsukiji Outer Market while preserving its traditional atmosphere and operations.