Tsukiji Outer Market
Tokyo's Legendary Seafood Paradise and Street Food Heaven
Tsukiji Market was established in 1935 after the Great Kanto Earthquake destroyed the original fish market in Nihonbashi. For over 80 years, Tsukiji served as Tokyo's central wholesale market and the world's largest fish market, handling over 2,000 tons of seafood daily and hosting the famous tuna auctions where individual bluefin tuna sold for millions of yen.
In October 2018, the inner wholesale market relocated to the new Toyosu Market facility. However, the Tsukiji Outer Market (Jogai Shijo) - a separate area of approximately 400 shops and restaurants that served market workers and retail customers - remained in its original location and continues to thrive.
The Outer Market maintains its historic character as a bustling food destination, offering the same ultra-fresh sushi, sashimi, street food, dried goods, kitchenware, and culinary atmosphere that made Tsukiji legendary. The area represents authentic Tokyo food culture, where visitors can experience the same energy and quality that fed the city for generations.
Key Highlights
- Historic market district dating to 1935
- Over 400 shops and restaurants in vibrant outer market
- Ultra-fresh seafood despite inner market relocation
- Famous for fresh sushi, sashimi bowls, and street food
- Professional kitchen tools and cookware shops
- Authentic Tokyo working-class food culture
Access Information
Location
4-16-2 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Tsukiji Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
- • Tsukijishijo Station (Toei Oedo Line)
- • Higashi-Ginza Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
Opening Hours
Most shops: 5:00 AM - 2:00 PM (some restaurants open until evening) | Many shops closed Sundays, Wednesdays, and market holidays
Admission Fee
Free entry; sushi breakfast ¥2,000-5,000, street food ¥300-1,500
How to Get There
From Tokyo Station
Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Ginza, transfer to Hibiya Line to Tsukiji
15 minutes
From Shibuya
Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line to Higashi-Ginza, walk 5 minutes
25 minutes
From Shinjuku
Toei Oedo Line to Tsukijishijo
30 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Arrive Before 10 AM for Best Experience
The market is most vibrant 6-10 AM when it's bustling but not yet overwhelmed by tourists. Many popular sushi restaurants have queues by 8 AM. After noon, many shops begin closing. Sunday and Wednesday closures are common.
Must-Try: Fresh Sushi Breakfast
Experience the famous fresh sushi breakfast at restaurants like Sushi Dai, Daiwa Sushi, or Iwasa Sushi. Expect queues at famous spots (sometimes 2+ hours). Also try uni (sea urchin), ikura (salmon roe), tamago (egg), and grilled seafood.
Street Food Paradise
Sample tamagoyaki (sweet rolled omelet), grilled scallops, tuna sashimi, fresh oysters, takoyaki, tempura, onigiri, and fresh fruit. Many vendors offer samples. The tamagoyaki shops are particularly famous.
Professional Kitchen Tools Available
The market has exceptional knife shops selling professional Japanese kitchen knives, ceramics, cookware, and specialized tools used by Tokyo chefs. Tsukiji Masamoto and other venerable shops offer expert advice.
Check for Closed Days
Many shops close on Sundays, Wednesdays, and market holidays. Check the official Tsukiji Outer Market website calendar before visiting. Golden Week, New Year's, and Obon periods have special schedules.
Navigate Narrow Lanes Carefully
The market's narrow lanes can be crowded and occasionally have small delivery vehicles. Walk single-file in busy areas, stay alert, and don't block shop entrances. The market is a working business district, not just a tourist attraction.
Bring Cash for Smaller Vendors
While many restaurants accept cards, smaller street food vendors and shops prefer cash. Bring ¥5,000-10,000 if you plan to eat and shop extensively. ATMs available at nearby Family Mart and Lawson convenience stores.
Combine with Nearby Attractions
After the market, walk to Hamarikyu Gardens (10 min), Ginza shopping district (15 min), or take a water bus from Hamarikyu to Asakusa. The nearby Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple features unique Indian-influenced architecture.
FAQ
Is the famous tuna auction still here?
No, the wholesale market and tuna auctions moved to Toyosu in 2018. Tsukiji Outer Market remains vibrant with restaurants, shops, and street food. The atmosphere and food quality continue to attract crowds.
What time should I arrive?
Arrive between 8-10 AM for the best experience. Some sushi restaurants open at 7 AM. The market gets crowded by 10 AM, especially on weekends. Many shops close by 2-3 PM.
How does it compare to Toyosu Market?
Tsukiji is more tourist-friendly with street food and easy wandering. Toyosu has the wholesale action and tuna auctions but feels more sterile. Most visitors prefer Tsukiji for atmosphere and accessibility.
What foods should I definitely try?
Fresh sushi and sashimi, grilled seafood skewers, tamagoyaki (sweet omelet), uni (sea urchin), and wagyu beef skewers. Don't miss the famous egg sandwich at Shogetsu. Try the fruit samples too.
Are the sushi restaurants worth the wait?
Popular spots like Sushi Dai have 1-3 hour waits. The sushi is excellent but similar quality exists with shorter waits. Try lesser-known shops or come very early. Alternatively, eat sushi elsewhere and enjoy street food here.
Can vegetarians find options here?
Limited but available. Look for tamagoyaki, vegetable tempura, rice balls, and fruit. Some restaurants offer vegetable sushi. The market is seafood-focused, so options are fewer than typical areas.
Is eating while walking acceptable?
Yes, the market culture allows eating while strolling, though find designated eating areas when possible. Be mindful of crowds and dispose of trash properly. Don't block narrow pathways while eating.
Do I need cash?
Yes, most vendors only accept cash. Some restaurants take cards but bring at least ¥5,000 cash to be safe. ATMs are available at nearby convenience stores.
How long should I budget for a visit?
Plan 2-3 hours to explore and eat properly. Just walking through takes 30-45 minutes. If eating at a sit-down restaurant, add another hour including wait time.
What days is the market closed?
Most shops close on Sundays and some Wednesdays. Check specific restaurants as some open daily. National holidays vary by shop. The market is quieter but not completely dead on closure days.
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