Toyosu Fish Market
World's Largest Seafood Hub and Home of Million-Dollar Tuna
Toyosu Market opened in October 2018 as the successor to the legendary Tsukiji Market, which had operated since 1935. The relocation was necessary due to Tsukiji's aging infrastructure, limited space, and hygiene concerns in the old facility. Toyosu was built on reclaimed land in Tokyo Bay with modern refrigeration, hygiene standards, and tourist-friendly design.
The market occupies 407,000 square meters (about 1.7 times Tsukiji's size) and consists of separate buildings for seafood wholesale, produce wholesale, and intermediate wholesale markets. The facility handles approximately 480 million kilograms of seafood annually, worth over 600 billion yen, making it the world's largest fish market by transaction value.
Toyosu is most famous for its tuna auctions, where frozen bluefin tuna - some weighing over 200kg - are sold to wholesalers. The record auction price was set in 2019 when a 278kg bluefin tuna sold for 333.6 million yen (approximately $3.1 million USD). The market continues Tokyo's tradition as the global center of seafood trading and Japanese culinary culture.
Key Highlights
- World's largest fish market by transaction value
- Opened October 2018 as Tsukiji's modern successor
- Famous pre-dawn tuna auctions with multi-million yen fish
- State-of-the-art facility with visitor observation decks
- Handles 480+ million kg of seafood annually
- Separate buildings for seafood, produce, and intermediate wholesale
Access Information
Location
6-6-2 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Shijo-mae Station (Yurikamome Line)
- • Toyosu Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
Opening Hours
Tuna auction viewing: 5:40-6:15 AM (first-come, limited to 120 visitors) | General observation decks: 5:00 AM-5:00 PM | Restaurants: 5:00 AM-3:00 PM (varies) | Closed Sundays, market holidays, and Wednesdays
Admission Fee
Free admission to observation decks and viewing areas
How to Get There
From Tokyo Station
Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line direct to Toyosu, walk 10 minutes
30 minutes
From Shimbashi
Yurikamome Line to Shijo-mae (direct access)
15 minutes
From Odaiba
Yurikamome Line to Shijo-mae
10 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Tuna Auction Viewing Requires Early Arrival
To view the famous tuna auction, arrive by 5:00 AM (earlier on weekends/holidays). Only 120 visitors per day are admitted on first-come basis. Registration begins at 5:00 AM at the Fisheries Wholesale Market Building. Viewing is from 5:40-6:15 AM.
Three Separate Buildings to Explore
Seafood Wholesale Building (tuna auction, observation deck), Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Building (smaller vendors, best observation deck), and Fruits & Vegetables Building. Each offers different viewing experiences and restaurants.
Ultra-Fresh Sushi Restaurants
Over a dozen sushi restaurants operate in the market, serving breakfast and lunch with incredibly fresh fish. Popular spots include Sushi Dai and Daiwa Sushi (relocated from Tsukiji). Arrive before 7 AM to avoid long queues.
Observation Decks Offer Great Views
Multiple observation decks overlook the auction floor and wholesale operations. The Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Building's 3rd floor offers the best comprehensive view. Photography is allowed from observation areas but not on the trading floor.
Check Market Closure Calendar
The market is closed Sundays, Wednesdays (usually), national holidays, and special market holidays. Check the official Toyosu Market website calendar before visiting. January 1-5 and mid-August closures are standard.
Dress Appropriately for Early Morning
If visiting for the tuna auction, dress warmly as refrigerated areas are cold. The auction viewing area is temperature-controlled but cool. Comfortable walking shoes essential as the facility is massive.
Combine with Odaiba or TeamLab
Toyosu is on Tokyo Bay near Odaiba entertainment district and TeamLab Planets. After visiting the market (which closes early afternoon), explore nearby attractions via the scenic Yurikamome elevated railway.
Tourist-Friendly Modern Facility
Unlike old Tsukiji, Toyosu was designed with tourists in mind. Clear English signage, clean facilities, climate control, elevators, and dedicated observation areas make it accessible. Free WiFi available throughout.
FAQ
How do I see the tuna auction?
Apply online for the limited visitor slots (120 people daily) or arrive by 5 AM for standby tickets. Winners watch from a dedicated viewing deck. The auction starts around 5:30-6:30 AM. Book weeks in advance.
Is it worth visiting without seeing the auction?
Yes, you can explore the market, visit observation decks, eat at restaurants, and shop from 8 AM onwards. The wholesale areas are visible through windows. The rooftop garden offers bay views.
How do I get there from central Tokyo?
Take the Yurikamome Line to Shijo-mae Station (market entrance) or the Oedo Line to Shijo-mae. From Tokyo Station, it's about 20 minutes. The market is well-signposted from stations.
When is the market closed?
Closed most Sundays, some Wednesdays, and during New Year holidays. Check the official calendar before visiting. Restaurant hours vary, with some open on closure days. The viewing areas close on market holidays.
Should I visit Toyosu or Tsukiji?
Visit Toyosu for the tuna auction and wholesale market experience. Choose Tsukiji for street food and traditional atmosphere. Many visitors do both - Toyosu early morning, then Tsukiji for breakfast.
What can I eat there?
Fresh sushi, kaisendon (seafood bowls), and ramen in the market restaurants. Quality is excellent but expect to queue at popular spots. Prices are reasonable for the quality. Some shops open as early as 6:30 AM.
Can I buy fish to take home?
The intermediate wholesale area sells to the public after 10 AM. However, most products aren't travel-friendly. Some shops offer vacuum packing and dry ice for travelers, but check customs regulations.
Are there English tours available?
Some companies offer guided tours including auction viewing and market exploration. These help with context and navigation but aren't essential. Free pamphlets in English are available at information desks.
Is photography allowed?
Yes in public areas and observation decks. No flash photography during auctions. Be respectful of workers and don't obstruct operations. The rooftop garden is great for photos.
What else is there to see nearby?
TeamLab Planets is walking distance. Odaiba is one station away. The Sumida River area offers pleasant walks. Many combine Toyosu with Ginza or Tsukiji, both easily accessible.
Nearby Attractions
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Ginza District
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Golden Gai
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Harajuku / Takeshita Street
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Imperial Palace East Gardens
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