Japan Photo Guide

This post has information and photos mainly about the consumer fish market at Tsukiji. If you are interested, there is also a post more specifically on the Tokyo Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market at Tsukiji.

Tsukiji Fish Market (築地市場) is a large wholesale and consumer market in Tokyo. In fact, it is the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. In recent years it has become a popular tourist attraction for foreigners. Tsukiji is in Tokyo close to Ginza. The best time to go is early in the morning when most of the action is going on in the wholesale market, from around 5-9am. This works out nicely for those that have just arrived and are still jet lagged or for the more adventurous souls that stay out all night and then catch the first train.

These photos were taken at the consumer market next to the wholesale one. The wholesale market is where they have the huge tuna and auctions. Be aware, while it has become a popular place for tourists, people are working here, so if you go try not to get in their way (especially the ones with sharp tools or driving mini forklift looking machines).

While the wholesale market might be more interesting, the consumer market is still worth checking out. Especially if you wanna try the goods. Chances are that if you eat sushi or seafood in Tokyo you will be eating fish or seafood bought from Tsukiji, so you might as well get it fresher at the consumer market.

For more information about the wholesale market and to see photos check out the wikipedia.