Serving locals and visitors over the last 100 years, Tsukiji Outer Market has become an important cultural landmark in Japan. From the fresh live catch from the sea to delectable delicacies, Tsukiji Outer Market has it all ready to capture everyone’s amazement.
If you are looking to explore the ins and outs of the market, Tokyo Localized has put together a brief yet complete guide to Tsukiji Market so you can have a smooth and wonderful experience.
Wanna see a live cutting of tuna? Check out our Tuna Cutting Show Tour where you will be able to see a tuna cut in a traditional Japanese way right in front of you. After the tuna cutting show, you will be able to eat fresh tuna sashimi, tuna sushi, and a variety of tuna dishes along with Japanese Sake.
What Is Tsukiji Outer Market Known for?
Before 2018, Tsukiji Market was divided into two areas. The “inner market” was the area where wholesale fish are sold. It used to be the largest fish market in the world. The inner market used to be so popular for its tuna action every morning, attracting thousands of local and foreign tourists. The “outer market” became famous for fresh fish and other seafood that is prepped and cooked at restaurants and food stalls outside the market.
In 2018, wholesale fish vendors of the inner market had to move to the new Toyosu Fish Market. The vendors at Tsukiji Outer Market have remained, still serving fresh seafood sourced from the new Toyosu Market, minus the hustle and bustle of the now-gone inner market.
Tsukiji Outer Market is now the name of the area. You might still hear the name Tsukiji Fish Market or Tsukiji Market, but don’t be confused. They still refer to the same place.
Why Was Tsukiji Fish Market Closed?
Tsukiji Fish Market was shut down by the Tokyo metropolitan government due several reasons. The government is mainly concerned about sanitation and cleanliness of the area. The building’s antiquity and safety for both vendors and customers are also an equally important reason as it might be able to withstand upcoming earthquakes anymore.
Where Is Tsukiji Market Now?
Does Tsukiji still exist? Where is Tsukiji Market now?
Yes, Tsukiji Outer Market still exists and is in the same location. It’s still a great place to hunt foods made of fish and seafood.
The “inner market” is the only thing that had been moved, now found in Toyosu Market. Toyosu is located in central Tokyo, adjacent to the posh Ginza area and the busy Shimbashi.
To get to Tsukiji Outer Market, take a train to the Tsukiji Shijo Station on the Toei Oedo line or Tsukiji Station on the Hibiya Line. Tsukiji Outer Market is a short walk away from both stations.
Is Tsukiji Still Worth Visiting?
Yes, Tsukiji is still worth visiting. Despite the inner market’s change of location, Tsukiji Outer Market has remained a worthy place to be visited if you want to taste the best of Tokyo’s seafood offerings.
What to Eat at Tsukiji Outer Market
Tsukiji Outer Market has a wide variety of foods you can try. Here are some you should hunt for:
Sushi
Kaisendon
Tamagoyaki
Sea urchin
Scallops
Oyster
Grilled eel skewer
Corn fishcake skewer
For more details, check out the Top 10 Musty-Try Foods at Tsukiji Outer Market!
Join Our Live Tuna Cutting Show Tour
Is doing a DIY tour exhausting for you? Join our Tuna Cutting Show Tour!
During our Tuna Cutting Show Tour, you will be able to see a tuna cut in a traditional Japanese way right in front of you. We will explain how the tuna is cut and tell you stories about tuna, Sushi, and Japanese food culture. After the tuna cutting show, you will be able to eat fresh tuna sashimi, tuna sushi, and a variety of tuna dishes along with Japanese Sake. All you can drink and eat is included in this experience.
Learn more about our Tuna Cutting Show Tour!