If you're traveling to Japan, you likely want your fill of delicious, melt-in-your-mouth sashimi and sushi. The Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo is a great way to experience a variety of fresh seafood and sushi options. Let's walk through everything you need to know about it and some alternative sushi restaurant options.
The Tsukiji Market in Tokyo
What Is the Tsukiji Fish Market?
The Tsukiji Fish Market is a significant tourist attraction in central Tokyo. It used to have both an inner and outer market but they split in two separate locations in 2018.
- The Tsukiji Outer Market, which remains in Tsukiji, consists of shops and restaurants along narrow lanes. It is most well known for its fresh seafood, but also sells food-related products like knives.
- The Tsukiji Inner Market, famous for its tuna auctions, has now moved to Toyosu, but many vendors from the Outer Market still source their products there.
How Do I Access the Tsukiji Fish Market's Outer Market?
The Tsukiji Market is closest to two subway stations:
- The Tsukijishijo station on the Magenta Oedo Line
- The Tsujiki station on the Silver Hibiya Line
You can find them on the Tokyo Subway Route Map in the bottom right corner below.
What Are the Tsukiji Fish Market Hours?
The Tsukiji Market is open from early morning to early afternoon, but the hours will depend on the store or restaurant you visit. Many shops close or have modified hours on Sundays, Wednesdays, and public holidays.
Going earlier can help you avoid crowds. You can find hours for each store on this website.
How Can I Prepare for My Visit to the Tsukiji Market?
Here are a few tips and tricks to make the most of your visit:
- Know your sushi: Sushi University is an excellent resource for familiarizing yourself with all types of sushi and knowing what to order when visiting the market.
- Make sure to have cash on hand: Many places in the market are cash-only.
- Do not bargain: Prices at the market are set, and it is not customary to ask for discounts.
- Ask before taking pictures: Some stores might even have "no photography" signs, so be mindful, and when in doubt, always ask for permission.
Which Restaurants Should I Try at Tsukiji Market?
We recommend you browse the Tsukiji website and use their "Store Search" feature. We also recommend that you let yourself browse through the lanes and let your heart (and stomach!) guide you.
The Tsukiji market now has a variety of food, but if you're looking specifically for sushi and seafood, here are a few options to get you started:
- Tsukiji Sushi Sei Honten: Watch talented chefs create authentic sushi before your very eyes!
- Tsukiji Aozora Sandaime Honten: This is another excellent option in the market that offers omakase.
- Unitora Nakadori: This restaurant specializes in high-quality, buttery, sweet uni.
Acclaimed Restaurants
If you still haven't gotten your fill of sushi after the Tsukiji market, check out some of the top sushi restaurants in Tokyo. Here are some acclaimed or Michelin-starred sushi places for you to visit:
- Sukiyabashi Jiro: This sushi spot is extremely popular and even has its own movie! However, this popularity comes with strict dining rules. Guests are expected to eat in 30 minutes, and reservations are hard to get.
- Harutaka: Harutaka is the only restaurant in Tokyo to receive 3 Michelin stars in 2024. The chef there used to work at Jiro and offers a delicious omakase menu.
- Sushi Kanesaka: This 2-Michelin-starred restaurant offers another great omakase experience in an intimate setting.
More Accessible Options
If you're looking for more accessible options, we've got you covered.
- Nemuro Hanamaru: This conveyor belt sushi restaurant is a more affordable sushi option with great quality pieces.
- Sushi no Midori: This is a popular sushi option for tourists looking for a good combination of price and quality.
- Manten Sushi Marunouchi: Enjoy this restaurant's delicious omakase at a great value!
Related Read: 10 Must-Try Foods for Your Upcoming Japan Trip
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