Enjoy Tsukiji Fish Market’s electric energy and stunning allure, Tokyo’s gastronomical heart. This bustling hub, often affectionately called “Japan’s Kitchen,” teems with vibrant food stalls, venerable sushi restaurants, and the ceaseless bustle of shoppers and merchants.
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History:
Tsukiji Fish Market emerged from the ashes of the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923, serving as a symbol of Tokyo’s resilience. By 1935, it transformed into a thriving marketplace, an essential part of Tokyo’s seafood industry, and an embodiment of the city’s culinary culture.
Where is Tsukiji Fish Market?
The Tsukiji Fish Market is in Chuo City, one of the 23 special wards of Tokyo. Chuo, which means “Central” in Japanese, is situated in the heart of Tokyo.
Tsukiji Inner Market (Jonai Shijo):
Once the core of Tsukiji, the Inner Market was globally acclaimed for its wholesale business and legendary pre-dawn tuna auctions. However, in 2018, this section relocated to the modern facility of Toyosu Market, owing to reasons like the need for additional space and upgraded facilities.
Today, the legacy of the Tsukiji Inner Market lives on in Toyosu, where the traditional tuna auctions continue to captivate industry professionals and tourists alike. These events have now become a must-visit spectacle for any seafood lover or curious traveler venturing to Tokyo.
Tsukiji Outer Market (Jogai Shijo):
Despite the Inner Market’s relocation, the Tsukiji Outer Market remains at its original site, a culinary destination teeming with retail shops, food stalls, and eateries.
Over 460 businesses offer everything from fresh produce and seafood to kitchenware and restaurant supplies, contributing to the market’s pulsating atmosphere and cultural richness.
What to See?
Tsukiji is a sensory overload – from the festive merchant calls to the vibrant food colors. The market is a fantastic place to experience traditional architecture and get a sense of daily life in Tokyo.
Experience the vibrancy of Tsukiji’s sushi restaurants, buzzing with activity. Watch in awe as chefs expertly craft raw ingredients into stunning sushi masterpieces on the spot in front of you.
What to Eat?
Savor the delicate, fresh flavors of Tsukiji. The market is famous for its sushi, often made with fish sourced directly from Toyosu Market.
Each item at Tsukiji Fish Market comes with nuances and culinary subtleties that must be unpacked.
1) Sushi and Sashimi:
a) Omakase Sushi:
Omakase is a special way to dine in Japan, where you let the chef decide what you’ll eat. The chef picks the freshest seafood to serve you, starting with lighter dishes and then moving to richer flavors. It’s a meal that’s also a journey through different kinds of tastes.
The Omakase experience isn’t just about the food, though. It’s about trusting the chef’s skill and appreciating the quality of the ingredients. Each dish is a part of a story showing off the chef’s expertise and the ocean’s richness.
b) Uni (Sea Urchin):
Uni is the edible part of a sea urchin, known for its creamy texture. It tastes like the ocean but in a unique and complex way that people often compare to foie gras.
You can enjoy uni in different ways, but it’s usually best as sashimi or on top of sushi rice. Either way, it’s more than just a dish; it’s a whole experience. If you love exploring new and complex flavors, uni is definitely something you should try.
2) Tempura:
a) Ebi Tempura:
Ebi Tempura is a dish where prawns are wrapped in a light batter and fried until they’re golden and crispy. The outside is crunchy, while the inside is soft and juicy, making each bite really satisfying.
The dish usually comes with a special dipping sauce called tentsuyu. This sauce is a mix of savory, sweet, and a little bit spicy, and it makes the tempura even better. The sauce brings out the best in the dish, making the whole experience special.
b) Anago Tempura:
Anago Tempura features saltwater eel, which is lighter and softer than the freshwater eel you might know as unagi. The eel is covered in a crispy batter that gives the dish a nice crunch.
Many people enjoy This type of tempura, whether they’re new to Japanese food or have loved it for years. Usually, you’ll dip it in a special sauce or just add a bit of sea salt. Either way, it’s hard to stop at just one piece, showing how well-liked this dish is.
3) Seafood Bowls:
a) Kaisendon:
Kaisendon is a bowl full of different kinds of fresh sashimi on top of steamed rice. You could have anything from tuna and salmon to scallops and sea urchins. Each bite gives you a mix of flavors and feels different, making this simple rice bowl something special.
What makes Kaisendon so good is that you can eat it in many ways. You can mix the different types of sashimi together for new flavors or enjoy each one on its own. Every bite can be a new experience, making the whole meal interesting from start to finish.
b) Unadon:
Unadon is a popular Japanese dish made of grilled eel on top of steamed rice. The eel is soft and buttery, and it soaks up a sweet soy sauce that makes it taste even better. The sauce and eel go really well with the simple steamed rice below them.
This dish is more than just tasty; it’s also comforting. For people who have eaten a lot of Japanese food, Unadon brings back good memories. It’s a dish that feels like home and fills you up both physically and emotionally.
4) Grilled Seafood:
a)Yakitori-style Shellfish:
Seafood skewers combine shellfish like scallops, prawns, and clams, all grilled to perfection. The grilling makes the natural flavors of the shellfish even stronger and adds a smoky touch. The result is skewers that are juicy and full of flavor.
What’s great about these skewers is how they mix casual eating with high-quality taste. They show off the Japanese skill of making simple food taste amazing. Each skewer is a quick bite and a showcase of good cooking.
b) Grilled Oysters:
Grilled oysters are a treat for seafood fans. Cooking them on the grill makes them even more flavorful, adding a smoky taste to their natural saltiness. Each grilled oyster packs a lot of flavors, making it taste like a little piece of the sea but with a grilled kick.
These oysters usually come with simple sauces like soy or garlic butter. The sauces add a bit more flavor but don’t take over the taste of the oyster. It’s a simple dish that gives you a lot of flavor, making it both easy to enjoy and interesting to eat.
5) Street Food:
a) Takoyaki:
Takoyaki are ball-shaped snacks that are a hit on the streets of Japan. They’re made from a tasty batter and usually filled with bits of octopus. The outside is crispy, while the inside stays soft and gooey, making each bite a fun mix of textures.
To top it off, Takoyaki gets a drizzle of special sauce, some mayo, and bonito flakes that move with the heat. These toppings make the snack even tastier without hiding the flavor of the octopus. It’s a simple but flavorful dish that captures what Japanese street food is all about.
b) Tamagoyaki:
Tamagoyaki is a Japanese omelet that’s rolled up in layers. It has a sweet taste and a unique, thick texture. You can find it sold on sticks as street food or used as a topping on sushi.
What makes Tamagoyaki special is how it feels fancy but is really quite simple. Each layer adds a new taste, making every bite different. It’s a dish that both kids and adults love, and it keeps food lovers interested because of its layered texture.
6) Non-Seafood Delights:
a) Wagyu Beef Skewers:
Wagyu beef skewers are a decadent choice for those in the mood for something other than seafood. Known for its high-fat marbling, the Wagyu beef used in these skewers makes each bite exceptionally juicy and flavorful.
The grilling process adds another layer of complexity, infusing the skewers with a smoky aroma that complements the beef’s natural richness. The result is a simple yet luxurious dish that pleases the palate with its depth of flavors and textures.
b)Taiyaki:
Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake with a crispy outside and a sweet filling, usually red bean paste or custard. Each bite offers a mix of crunchy and soft textures, making it a fun and tasty treat.
Not just delicious, Taiyaki is also eye-catching. Its fish shape adds a playful touch, showing how Japanese food often combines good looks with great taste.
7) Desserts:
a) Matcha Ice Cream:
Matcha Ice Cream serves as an ideal endnote to a seafood-centric meal. The slight bitterness of the matcha powder contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the ice cream. This balance creates a complex yet approachable flavor profile that refreshes the palate.
As a dessert option at Tsukiji Fish Market, it’s a crowd-pleaser that is both refreshing and rich in flavor. The unique matcha twist adds a layer of sophistication, making it a fitting conclusion to a gastronomic adventure.
8) Beverages:
a) Japanese Sake:
Sake is a Japanese rice wine that pairs well with all kinds of food. You can find it in different types, from sweet to dry, making it easy to match your meal.
The drink is also versatile in how it’s served. Depending on your taste and chosen dishes, you can enjoy it either cold or warm. This flexibility makes sake a go-to beverage for any dining occasion.
b) Umeshu (Plum Wine):
Umeshu is a sweet plum wine that’s both fruity and a bit tart. The blend of sweetness and acidity makes it a versatile drink that pairs well with many Japanese dishes.
You can enjoy umeshu in different ways, either straight or over ice. No matter how you choose to have it, this plum wine adds a fruity twist to the end of your meal, rounding off your dining experience nicely.
By diving deep into each of these items, you satisfy your taste buds and gain a deeper understanding of the richness and complexity inherent in Japanese cuisine.
Best Time to Visit (Opening Hours):
The best time to visit the Tsukiji Fish Market, particularly the Outer Market, is in the morning. The market usually opens around 5 AM, and many shops and stalls are in full swing by 7 AM.
Visiting early not only allows you to witness the market in its most lively state but also increases your chances of enjoying the freshest sushi for breakfast.
Keep in mind that many places close in the early afternoon, usually by 2 PM. Please check specific store hours in advance, as they can vary.
However, individual shop hours may vary, so checking beforehand is advisable.
Best Souvenirs:
Tsukiji offers an array of souvenirs – from dried seaweed and exotic spices to handcrafted kitchenware and ceramics. Unique food items like sushi knives and wasabi graters are popular among visitors.
Beyond food and kitchenware, Tsukiji lets you bring home a piece of Japan. Find traditional tea, decorative chopsticks, or earthenware sake sets. Don’t miss the chance to pick up some ‘wagashi’ (Japanese sweets) – they make perfect gifts or personal treats. Every purchase helps you share Tsukiji’s rich culinary heritage with others.
Tour Guide:
Literally, you don’t need a tour guide. However, a guide is important to make the most effective of your visit. The tour guide can provide valuable insights into the market’s history and its numerous food offerings, enhancing your Tsukiji experience.
In conclusion, the Tsukiji Fish Market, with its enduring Outer Market and the legacy of the Inner Market now at Toyosu, remains an irreplaceable part of Tokyo’s culinary landscape. Tsukiji is a feast for all senses, offering a taste of Japan’s food culture and a glimpse into its vibrant daily life.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this unique culinary destination on your next visit to Tokyo!
How to get there?
Two conveniently located subway stations service the Tsukiji Inner Market area, offering easy pedestrian access.
The Toei-Oedo Line serves Tsukijishijo Station, providing direct links from districts such as Shinjuku, Roppongi, and Azabu-Juban.
On the other hand, Tsukiji Station operates on the Hibiya Line, offering a straight route from places like Nakameguro, Akihabara, and Ueno.
1) Tsukijishijo Station:
(Toei Oedo Line)
Exit via A1
Walk 1 min (20 m)
2) Tsukiji Station :
(Hibiya Line)
Exit via Exit 1
Walk 6 min (441 m)
Address:
5 Chome-2-1 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Tsukiji Fish Market?
The best time to visit is early morning, especially if you want to witness the tuna auction.
2. What can I find in the Tsukiji Outer Market?
The Outer Market offers various goods, from kitchenware to fresh produce and seafood.
3. Are there any eateries within Tsukiji Fish Market?
Yes, the market is filled with food stalls offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes.
4. Can I take a guided tour of the Tsukiji Fish Market?
Yes, there are various guided tours available that offer a deeper insight into the market’s operations.
5. How do I get to Tsukiji Fish Market?
The market is easily accessible by subway, with the closest station being Tsukiji Station on the Hibiya Line.
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