Discovering the Delights of Tsukiji Outer Market – How to Visit Tokyo's Famous Fish Market

Imagine yourself immersed in the energetic atmosphere of a Tokyo fish market – fresh seafood stretched across the food stalls, locals and tourists sampling food and negotiating with vendors, and the smell of freshly grilled seafood wafting through the air. You’ll experience that and more at the Tsukiji Outer Market, one of the best things to do in Tokyo.

Exploring the Tsukiji Outer Market

Japanese food is known for its freshness and razor-sharp attention to detail. You'll see, hear, and smell Japanese cuisine as you weave through the vendors and food stalls at the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market. You’ll find fresh fish and seafood of all types, as far as the eye can see, with a cornucopia of colors and varieties to sample. Other popular foods include sushi, dried seafood, and pickled vegetables.

The striking sights, sounds, and smells envelop you in a unique food experience – getting an authentic taste of Japanese culture and cuisine. What you see and savor also depends on the season, as Japanese food is highly seasonal.

The market is closed on Sundays, public holidays, and some Wednesdays. Most shops are open from 5 a.m. until early afternoon.

Enjoy A Private Tour of Tsukiji Outer Market

If navigating the market sounds a little intimidating, take our Tokyo Food Tour. On this two-hour guided tour of the Tsukiji Outer Market, you’ll sample everything from rice balls to delicate sashimi. This playground for the palate will allow you to taste a variety of key ingredients, such as a rainbow of pickled things (tsukemono), Japanese plums (ume), or authentic miso soup broth ingredients.

You’ll continue eating your way through the outer market, where you may make stops for tamagoyaki, the rolled, slightly sweet omelet, pomegranate vinegar, or meat dumplings. Your sit-down lunch might include raw fish served over bowls of rice (kaisendon), tempura, or sushi.

A local tour guide can offer interesting insights into the vendor culture, market specialties, and area favorite restaurants and food stalls.

Eating Your Way Through Tsukiji Outer Market

The Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo is famous for its fresh seafood and traditional Japanese food.

Here are some of the best foods to try while you're at the Tsukiji Outer Market:

• Sushi: The market is known for its high-quality sushi, made with the freshest fish. Some popular sushi restaurants in the area include Sushi Dai and Daiwa Sushi.
• Seafood Bowls: Many vendors at the market offer seafood bowls, or donburi, which feature a variety of fresh fish and seafood on top of a bed of rice. Some popular options include maguro (tuna) and uni (sea urchin).
• Tamagoyaki: A type of Japanese omelet often served as a breakfast food.
• Grilled Seafood: Several vendors at the market offer grilled seafood, such as squid and scallops, cooked right in front of you.
• Oysters: Tsukiji Outer Market is a great place to try fresh oysters, either raw or grilled.
• Tempura: Many of the market's restaurants and vendors offer tempura, a Japanese dish made of battered and fried seafood and vegetables.
• Ramen: While the Tsukiji Outer Market is primarily known for its seafood, there are also several ramen shops in the area that are worth trying. Ichiran and Tsukiji Soba Academy are two popular options.
• Sweet Treats: Sample dorayaki (two small pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste), taiyaki (fish-shaped sweet also filled with sweet red bean paste), mochi, fresh fruit, and soft-served ice cream.

Tsukiji Outer Market is a magnet for locals and tourists alike – so plan for your visit and try to avoid peak hours (before 9 a.m.). Weekends and holidays are also the busiest, so try to coordinate your visit on a weekday. Don’t forget comfortable shoes! It is a large complex and requires lots of walking.

Shopping and Souvenirs at Tsukiji Outer Market

Whether you’re looking for a souvenir for yourself or something to take home to a friend or family member, Tsukiji Outer Market is a great shopping spot. You can find many unique products and items at the market, such as:

• Kitchenware: Tsukiji Market is a great place to find high-quality kitchenware, including knives, cooking utensils, and pots and pans.
• Japanese snacks and candy: Many vendors sell traditional Japanese snacks and candy, including mochi, senbei (rice crackers), and matcha-flavored treats.
• Tea and tea sets: Japan is known for its tea culture, and you can find a variety of teas and tea sets at shops.
• Japanese souvenirs: Plenty of souvenir shops sell traditional Japanese items like fans, yukata robes, and chopsticks.
• Sake and other Japanese alcohol: The market is a great place to find sake, shochu, and other traditional Japanese alcohol. Many vendors offer tastings, so you can try before you buy.
• Art and crafts: If you're looking for something special, check out some of the artisanal shops selling handmade items like pottery, textiles, and jewelry.

Negotiating with vendors at the Tsukiji Outer Market can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it's important to approach it respectfully and courteously. Remember to start with a lower offer, but be willing to walk away. Many vendors also offer bulk discounts, so use that to your advantage.

Plan a Visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market

The Tsukiji Outer Market is a fun and exciting experience to add to your Tokyo itinerary. The energizing atmosphere is perfect for those looking to better appreciate Tokyo’s history and culture.

Whether you are a seafood connoisseur, you want to do a little shopping, or you just want a unique travel experience, the Tsukiji Outer Market is a fantastic stop. Enhance your experience even more with an expert-led Tsukiji Outer Market guided tour. Your local guide will help you work up an appetite as you discuss the market’s central role in Tokyo culture.