The most popular market among locals and tourists alike is Tsukiji - originally a local fish market, which has transformed over time into a small district full of shops, cafes and stalls selling more than just fish.

The market was established in 1935 and until 2018 was one of the largest public fish markets in the world.

After that, the fish processing halls were demolished, but the Tsukiji outdoor market remained functional and is still a popular tourist attraction today.

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Why visit the market in Tsukiji?

When to include this place in your itinerary? Is it worth a visit?

✅ Yes, if:

• you like the local vibe
• you love food markets (not just fish!)
• you want to eat cheaply and in style

❌ No, if:

• you are looking for famous "instagram" places
• you have limited time in Tokyo (there are more interesting places in the city)
• you are expecting a giant fish market (realistically it's more like 30 minutes)

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Fish stalls and cafes

There is one small indoor hall left, where I even had a great oyster (for 300 jpy / piece) and where you can find several fish stalls.

A much more varied range is on offer in the 5 or so surrounding streets, which are mostly pedestrianised.

Here you will not only find fish stalls, but also other Japanese specialties such as okonomiyaki, rice balls or even classic cafes.

It's busiest in the morning

Arrive early at the Tsukiji Fish Market.

Most stalls are open between about 7:30am and 3pm. Later in the afternoon and evening, many shops and cafes close and there's nothing to do after 4pm.

How to get there

I walked to the fish market from the central Ginza district, but the walk takes over 25 minutes and is mostly through not very interesting streets.

You can also get here by metro, the nearest stations are:

• Tsukijishjiho (approx. 370 metres)
  • Oedo Line - direction Edo-Tokyo Museum, Ueno Park, Shiba Park, Tokyo Tower, Nogi Shrine, Shinjuku, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
• Tsukiji (approx. 400 metres)
  • Hibiya Line - direction Tokyo Tower, Ginza, Kokyo Imperial Palace, Akihabara

Other markets I visited

I love markets and marketplaces and visit them often during my travels. As much as I enjoyed the Tsukiji market, I've visited much more authentic and interesting fish markets around the world.

These are my favourites.

• Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan - South Korea
• Ferry Fish Market in Dar es Salaam - Tanzania
• Mae Klong Train Fish Market - Thailand

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