Tsukiji Outer Market: a foodie nirvana with a long tradition

Fresh fish for sale at the Tsukiji fish market

Tsukiji Outer Market (築地場外市場, Tsukiji Jōgai Shijō) is a vibrant district adjacent to the site of the former Tsukiji Wholesale Market. This dynamic and utterly fascinating hub dazzles with an incredible array of fresh and processed seafood, produce, and food-related goods. Even after the inner wholesale market moved to Toyosu (taking its world-famous tuna auctions with it), the outer market has remained in business, a testament to its enduring popularity. As you navigate the narrow, crowded lanes, you’ll be swept up in a lively atmosphere of vendors calling out to customers and the enticing aroma of fresh street food. A visit here is one of the best ways to experience Tokyo's rich food culture firsthand and enjoy some of the freshest seafood in the city, much of it delivered directly from the new Toyosu Market. It's an absolute must-visit for anyone with an interest in Japanese cuisine, culture, or simply a desire for a truly unforgettable culinary adventure

Getting there – where is Tsukiji Outer Market?

Hamarikyu Gardens are beautifully situated and even offer a unique mode of arrival!

• Nearest station: The closest stations are Tsukiji Shijo Station (築地市場駅) on the Toei Oedo Line and Tsukiji Station (築地駅) on the Hibiya Subway Line. You can also walk from Higashi-Ginza Station (東銀座駅) on the Toei Asakusa and Tokyo Metro Hibiya lines.

• By taxi: A taxi can drop you off nearby, but the market itself is a series of narrow, crowded lanes, so you will need to walk to enter.

• Accessibility: The market has no steps and the routes are flat, making it wheelchair accessible. However, the streets are often narrow and packed with shoppers, which can be challenging to navigate.

Opening hours & best time to visit

The Tsukiji Outer Market will thrill early birds!

• Opening hours: Business hours vary. Most shops typically open from 5:00 AM to around 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM. Restaurants often stay open later.

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It's recommended to have an early lunch around 11:00 AM to avoid the midday rush.

• Time to avoid: Many shops are closed on Sundays and national holidays, and some also close on Wednesdays. Early mornings are for professionals and wholesalers, so it's not the best time for tourists..

Reservations & admission

• Reservations: No reservations are needed to visit the market itself. Some of the more popular restaurants may require reservations.

• Ticket/Admission Price: There is no admission fee to walk along the market streets. Prices for food and other goods vary by vendor.

• Payment Method: Many smaller shops and food stalls in the market prefer cash, so it's a good idea to have some Japanese Yen on hand. Credit cards and IC cards (like Suica or Pasmo) are also accepted at some establishments..

What can you see & do at Tsukiji Outer Market?

Tsukiji Outer Market is a mixture of wholesale and retail shops, as well as restaurants. You can find everything from fresh seafood and produce to professional-grade knives and kitchen supplies. The market is a great place to sample a wide variety of street food and browse unique, high-quality Japanese ingredients and goods.

• Food stalls and restaurants: The main attraction is the huge variety of food stalls selling everything from fresh sashimi and sushi to grilled seafood and snacks. You can sample different foods moving from stall to stall or sit down for a meal at one of the many restaurants.

• Shopping for kitchenware: Explore the shops selling Japanese kitchen tools, especially the high-quality knives and other restaurant supplies.

• Namiyoke Inari Shrine: A historic Shinto shrine located at the edge of the market, which translates to "protection from the waves," and is a place where fishermen have long prayed for safety.

Japansophy’s Top Tips!

• Dress comfortably: Since it is a bustling market, dress in comfortable clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting a little dirty.

• Have cash on hand: Many of the smaller stalls are cash-only.

• Sushi for breakfast?: You'll find some of the freshest sushi and sashimi you've ever had right here at the market, so skip breakfast in your hotel and head here for a delicious start to the day.

• Don't eat while walking around: Eating while walking is generally frowned upon in Japan, particularly in crowded places like Tsukiji. Eat your purchases in front of the stall before moving on to the next.

Facilities:

• Eating & drinking: This is what you came for! You will find countless dining options throughout the market.

• Toilets: Public restrooms are available in the vicinity, including at the Tsukiji Nippon Fish Port Market and the nearby Tsukiji Honganji Temple.

• Baby-changing facilities: These are available at some of the nearby public facilities and in the nearby train/metro stations.

Other attractions nearby:

This corner of Tokyo has plenty to offer, so explore further after your early start at Tsukiji.

• Hamarikyu Gardens: A peaceful Edo-era traditional garden with a unique tidal pond, located close to the market.

• Shiodome: This modern district, just outside the garden, boasts impressive skyscrapers, unique architecture, and various dining options.

• Ginza: Tokyo's upscale shopping district, famous for its luxury boutiques, department stores, and fine dining, is a pleasant walk or short subway ride from Shiodome.

• Zojo-ji Temple & Tokyo Tower: A slightly longer walk or short taxi ride will take you to Zojo-ji Temple, with its iconic backdrop of Tokyo Tower.

  
  

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