Tsukiji Fish Market Food Tour (Tokyo) – Half Day

“One cannot get more authentic than this. Best sushi ever.” — Dave, Hawaii

More than 2,000 tonnes of seafood is traded daily at this mammoth Tokyo institution. Tsukiji Market is nothing short of the world’s foremost when it comes to buying and selling high-grade catch, although it also houses stalls for fruit, vegetables, flowers and meat. Today we join a local food & culture expert in understanding and navigating the labyrinthine facility.

Our tour begins at the main gate of Tsukiji Honganji-Temple, where the group assembles before heading to the market. Our guide will educate us on the goings-on as we enter the fascinating outer market (jōgai-shijō) comprised by hundreds of food stalls and restaurants. We might sample Japanese omelet, fried fish cake, and authentic Japanese green tea here.

Next we head to the Tsukiji Uogashi Wholesale Market, an L-shaped complex housing some 70 stalls of wholesalers. Geared towards home chefs and the like, its top floor has an outdoor deck with seating and a view alongside notable restaurants.

Finally, we’ll visit a local eatery for the most awaited part of the morning: the Japanese sake experience and sushi tasting. Savor the freshest fish you’ve tasted with your life, and maybe some Dashi soup and Katsuobushi (dried, fermented, and smoked skipjack tuna). Yyyyyum!

“I had very high expectations and they were all fulfilled. Just strolling around and trying all the food was a perfect way to spend the morning.” — Sorhol, Denmark