Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, is a busy and vibrant metropolis representing the cultural, historical and economic heart of the country. A contrasting mix of modern skyscrapers and ancient temples make the world’s most populated city an interesting place to visit. Developed over 500 years, it’s hard to believe that this vast city (actually a collection of smaller cities that have merged together over time) started life as the small fishing village of Edo. Today, as if in homage to its humble beginnings, Tokyo’s Tsukiji fish market continues to thrive and is now the largest and busiest wholesale fish market in the world.
Truly a unique place to see, here are a few tips to get the most from your visit to Tsukiji:
Visit later in the day for a quieter experience and a sushi breakfast
The market is really busy in the early hours of the morning with sellers, traders, forklift trucks and visitors jostling for space so time your visit for 9am onwards if you want a less frantic visit. There will still be plenty to see, as this is the time when the fishmongers set to work filleting the fish, but with fewer trolleys to avoid. It’s also a great time of day to enjoy a deliciously fresh sushi breakfast from one of the many fresh sushi counters. In the market itself each section is set aside for a different type of seafood; you’ll see octopus, shellfish, tanks of exotic fish and huge tuna.
Get up early to see the live tuna auction
The live tuna auction is not to be missed but incredibly popular so you need to be aiming to get to the market before 5am. This makes is an ideal excursion if you’re flying into Japan early and staying in one of the hotels near Narito airport and looking for an activity to ward off jet lag. Only 120 visitors are allowed in per viewing day (check in advance when these are) and it’s strictly entry on a first come first served basis. You’ll see huge fresh Bluefin tuna being bidded for by competing restaurant owners all wanting to get their hands on the best and most delicious fish for their sushi. In January a record £1m was paid for a 222kg fish during the prestigious first tuna fish auction of the New Year but expect to see more realistic prices on your own visit.
The outer markets
If the smell of raw fish gets a bit overpowering make your way outside to the open air markets held on the narrow streets surrounding the warehouses. You’ll find fresh fruit, flowers, meats and cooking supplies on display and a huge selection of cafes and restaurants.
The huge increase in visitor numbers and trade means that the world famous fish market will be relocating to a modern, larger site in the next few years. So why not take your chance to catch a piece of fishing history and plan a visit soon?
Cat Halsey is an avid travel writer who loves to discover new and hidden destinations from all over the globe. She especially loves writing about the subcontinent and the far east.
