Tsukiji Fish Market – one of the world’s largest and oldest wholesale seafood market – needs no elaborate introduction. The iconic destination is where Japan’s fish traders gather to barter for the best fishes and where avid global foodies congregate to savour the freshest sashimi.

However, Tsukiji Fish Market’s current venue at Chuo Ward, Tokyo, will have to shift to a new location on 07 Nov 2016 to make way for the 2020 Olympic Games.

If you want to visit the market at its original venue, we suggest you start making your travel plans now before it ceases operations on 02 Nov 2016.

WHERE

Tsukiji Fish Market’s official move is estimated at ¥200 billion and the new 40-hectare space will be located at Toyosu, Koto Ward.

This new location is more than 1.5 miles away from the current address. While many are saddened by the fact that the traditional tuna auctions will not feel the same as before, the shift is ultimately for the better.

WHY

Tokyo Metropolitan Fisheries Wholesale Association Director Eisuke Urawa explained that the move is absolutely necessary, especially when the present-day sanitation levels are not up to standards.

The current space is also too small and unsafe for the large scale of operations.

WHAT

The new Tsukiji Fish Market will be inherently different, where hundreds of wholesale vendors will then be contained in a larger multi-storey complex.

The closed off building’s temperature and climate would be controlled to keep the produce fresh and hygienic. This also means that visitors no longer have the luxury of wandering around freely like before.

THE PRESENT

If you would like to experience the age-old Tsukiji Fish Market like how it has been operating for the past eight decades, then there is certainly no other better time to visit than now.

Important note: Bear in mind that the public is currently prohibited to watch the tuna auctions till 17 Jan 2016. This is to facilitate smooth business transactions during peak periods. Fret not if your main agenda is to eat, as other parts of the market will remain open to public.

For more information, read our guide on the 5 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Tsukiji Market’s Tuna Auction.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Tsukiji Market is a must-visit destination for every discerning foodie. Home to the world’s freshest sashimi, their high quality seafood will be the best you ever had. The fish market is equally famous for their legendary tuna auctions and you can watch them for free.

What most travellers did not know is that watching this tuna auction actually requires a lot of preparation and planning – even so, admission is still not guaranteed. The legendary Tsukiji Market is set to move in late 2016 to make way for the Olympics and there is definitely no better time than now to visit it.

Here are 5 things you should know before slotting Tsukiji Market’s Tuna Auction into your Tokyo itinerary.

#1 IT IS NOT FOR EVERYONE

First and foremost, Tsukiji Market’s Tuna Auction is honestly not for everyone. While it was one of the highlights of our vacation, we actually went through great lengths to make it happen. The auction lasts for only approximately 30 minutes but you would have to queue hours in advance just to watch this local Japanese activity.

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Furthermore, a place is not guaranteed as it is based on a first come first served basis. You cannot pay to secure a seat nor can you book a slot in advance. Each auction admits a total of 60 guests and there are only two auctions on an operating day.

#2 VISITORS HAVE TO SACRIFICE SLEEP

There is actually no ‘ideal’ timing to arrive at the market despite the various recommended timings you will come across from various travel publications. We arrived at an unearthly 3.30am and were already slotted into the second batch of auction. The available slots filled up quickly after within the next half an hour – the tuna auction is clearly extremely popular.

The timing largely depends on your luck too, as there may be significantly less or more visitors on a particular day. Giving up on your sleep is almost mandatory if you want to watch the auction.

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#3 STAYING NEARBY IS A MUST

As mention above, waking up in the wee hours is necessary to catch the auction. Anyone that attempts to register after the 120th visitor would be rejected and asked to leave. You have to stay within walking distance to Tsukiji Market in such an unfortunate event, as public transportations are not available during those hours.

#4 IT IS NOT OPEN EVERY DAY

The tuna auction does not open to the public daily and are usually closed on Wednesdays, Sundays and on public holidays. Do check their calendar way in advance before arranging for accommodation to avoid disappointment.

Important note: Do bear in mind that the public is currently prohibited to watch the tuna auctions till 17 Jan 2016. This is to facilitate smooth business transactions during peak periods.

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#5 THERE ARE RULES TO ABIDE

Flash photography is strictly prohibited throughout the auction, as it will affect the buyers’ judgment of the premium tunas. Visitors also have to wear appropriate shoes; sandals and slippers are not allowed. Follow the guide’s instructions at all times and do not disrupt the auctioning procedures. Inability to adhere to their requirements will result in you being kicked out.

For more recommendations, read our guide on 25 reasons to love Tokyo.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Tokyo is an exciting multi-faceted megalopolis and a must-visit for all wanderlusters. It is not only Japan’s capital but also the world’s gourmet capital, with the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in its region. Cost of living in Tokyo is extremely high so do expect to pay significantly more (than when vacationing in other Asian cities).

While Tokyo is not a budget-friendly city, it does not mean that free activities are out of reach. Read our guide to 8 free things to do in Tokyo and find out how you can save yen!

#1 GINZA

Ginza is well known for their luxury brands and gourmet restaurants but that does not mean you should skip a visit to this district due to budget constrains. Besides being a high end shopping district, Ginza is also Japan’s focal point of contemporary design. Every building in Ginza is absurdly aesthetically pleasing to the eye and design junkies will find themselves hopelessly drooling over the impressive works of world famous architects.

Nearest station: Ginza

#2 MEIJI SHRINE

Meiji Shrine is a stone throw away from the bustling Harajuku – we could hardly believe such a tranquil setting could exist right beside a busy railway station! Traditional Shinto ceremonies such as wedding solemnization actually still take place in this serene shrine (also known as Meiji Jingu).

Before entering the sacred site’s main hall, one is expected to wash his/her hands and mouth as a form of purification at the troughs. Other interesting cultural activities include writing your wishes on a wooden plate (500 yen) and hung on the divine tree. Admission fees will be collected for the Treasure House and Inner Garden but entrance to the Meiji Shrine is free of charge.

1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan

Nearest station: Harajuku

#3 OMOTESANDO

Omotesando is an epicentre of luxurious lifestyle with stunning architecture. Its tree-lined avenue has an uncanny resemblance to Paris’ Champs-Élysées and head-turner buildings include Audi Forum Tokyo, Tokyu Plaza, Tod’s Building, Hugo Boss and Sunny Hill.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of these infrastructures’ extraordinary architectural designs or venture away from the main roads and explore Omotesando’s beautiful residential neighbourhood. The hanging criss-cross electrical wires in the local backstreets make a photographic opportunity and you will be surprised by their flourishing cafe culture.

Nearest station: Omotesando

#4 SHIBUYA CROSSING

Regardless of rain or shine, the famous Shibuya is always jam packed with people. When the traffic light turns red, watch pedestrians cross the junction from all directions in an organized chaos or become a part of the moving crowd!

Photography and videography enthusiasts can camp at the nearby Starbucks at Shibuya Tsutaya’s second floor with other like-minded hobbyists to capture this moment.

Nearest station: Shibuya

#5 TAKESHITA DORI

Takeshita Dori aka Takeshita Street is a pedestrianised street in Harajuku. Opened from 11am – 10pm, the 400 meters long street lined up with cute kiosks and boutique fashion stores is extremely popular amongst Japanese teens. Visit on a Sunday and witness Harajuku’s vibrant cos-play scene, where teenagers will dress up as their favourite anime character in elaborate outfits.

Nearest station: Harajuku

#6 TOKYO NATIONAL ART CENTER

Tokyo is indeed every architect’s wet dream. Tokyo National Art Center is yet another beautifully designed building that is worth checking out. While charges do apply for admission to the art museum’s exhibits, access to the center’s main atrium is actually free. Marvel at the splendid undulating glass façade and its three spectacular conical volumes inside.

Kokuritsu Shin-Bijutsukan
The National Art Center, Tokyo
7-22-2 Roppongi Minato-ku Tokyo 106-8558 Japan

Nearest station: Roppongi

#7 TOKYO OBSERVATORY DECKS

For an impressive view of Tokyo’s city skyline, visit Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s (TOCHO) 45th level and Bunkyo Civic Center’s 25th floor. Access to these two buildings’ observatory decks is completely free of charge. Both viewpoints allow you to see the iconic Tokyo Tokyo Sky Tree and even Mount Fuji!

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
2-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan
Nearest station: Tocho-mae

Bunkyo Civic Center
1-16-21 Kasuga, Bunkyo, Tokyo 112-8555, Japan
Nearest station: Korakuen

#8 TSUKIJI TUNA AUCTION

While watching the renowned tuna auction at Tsukiji Fish Market is for free, you would have to be prepared to sacrifice your precious sleep. There are two auctions in the morning and only 120 visitors are allowed to watch this interesting activity. Guests are divided into two batches and it is recommended to arrive as early as 3am to secure a place.

Our arrival at 3.30am landed us in the second batch and any visitor after the 120th will be turned away – this means you should stay within walking distance. The first auction starts at 5.25am and the second one commences at 5.50am. Each auction lasts for about 20 minutes.

There are many guidelines to follow such as no heels, no flip flops and no flash photography. Tsukiji Fish Market is set to relocate in 2016 so do pay a visit before they move! Do note that the auction is not open on a daily basis and it is best to plan in advance.

5 Chome-2-1 Tsukiji, Chuo, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan

Nearest station: Tsukiji Shijo

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She was previously a marketing executive and freelance photographer in the food industry. Her work has been published on Epicure, Lifestyle Asia and Meld Magazine etc.

Tsukiji Market is the world’s largest seafood market, and it is one of the must-see places when you are in Tokyo. While you might not need any convincing to go there when you are in the city, we still want to share five compelling reasons why you have to visit Tsukiji Market.

Visiting the tuna auction

One of the highlights of Tsukiji Market is definitely visiting the tuna auction. That is, if you can get up early (the queue starts before 5am), and if you are lucky enough to get in – the auction is limited to 120 guests a day.

Sushi Breakfast at Tsukiji Market

A trip to Tokyo will not be complete without having sushi breakfast at Tsukuji Market. Sushi Dai and Sushi Daiwa are the most popular sushi restaurants at the fish market. However, people wait in line from as early as 6am, and the queue is easily two to three hours. Honestly, I feel that the other sushi restaurants at Tsukiji Market are just as good.

One place you can consider is Ryu Sushi. We had the Kiku Sushi Set (¥2,100) which comes with 7 pieces of sushi, and 6 pieces of sushi rolls, and a beautiful Chirashi (¥3,100). We were blown away by the quality and freshness of the sushi and sashimi.

Ryu Sushi
5-2-1, Building 1
Chuo-ku, Tsukiji Market, Tokyo
Tel: 03 3541 9517

Plenty of things to see and buy at the outer market

The outer market has many stalls selling fresh produce, tea, kitchen utensils and kitchenware, pickles, and food like tamago and unagi.

Tempura at Tenfusa

Another reason to return to Tsukiji Market again and again is to have tempura at Tenfusa. If sushi for breakfast is not your thing, go to Tenfusa, which is located along the same stretch as Sushi Dai and Sushi Daiwa. The tempura is well-prepared, crisp and not oily. The Tendon (¥1,100), and assorted Tempura Set (¥1,200) are very affordable for the quality.

Tenfusa
5-2-1, Building 6
Chuo-ku, Tsukiji Market, Tokyo
Tel: 03 3547 6766

Tsukiji Market is moving

Tsukiji Market will be moving to Toyosu in March 2015 to make room for the 2020 Summer Olympic Games. So, if you have not been to the market before, you must make a trip there before it moves to the new location.

Tsukiji Market is closed on Sundays, holidays and certain Wednesdays. The nearest stations are Tsukiji and Tsukijishijo.

For more recommendations, read our Tokyo Food & Travel Guides.