Just inside the Chūō district of Tokyo lies the world-famous Tsukiji Outer Market, which has become a top tourist hub in recent years. The market brims with rich traditions, delectable foods and a vibrant sense of community. This market satisfies tourists’ curiosity about Japanese fish markets and their inner workings.
The history
The Tsukiji Outer Market, formerly known as the Nihonbashi Market, was created in 1657 serving as a local fish market for the surrounding community. This was the first fish market within the Nihonbashi district of Tokyo. The term “tsukiji” translates to ‘constructed land’ or ‘reclaimed land,’ symbolizing the market’s creation as part of Tokyo Bay’s reclamation efforts.
In the aftermath of the devastating Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, the fish market’s infrastructure suffered extensive damage. As a result, the Japanese government temporarily relocated the market to Tsukiji. This provisional setup eventually became its long-time location, remaining there until 2018. After the Tsukiji Market gained international attention and became a massive tourist attraction, city leaders discussed building a new, larger market.
While the Tsukiji Outer Market remains where it is today, the new Toyosu Market opened its doors in 2018 to serve as a safer and more efficient fish market for tourists and locals. The old Tsukiji Outer Market was built during the age of the railroad-based transportation system.
Today, in the age of the truck-based transportation system, the market is no longer efficient for importing and exporting. Just two miles from the Tsukiji Outer Market, the Toyosu Market now hosts live fish auctions and features fresh fish stalls and various other merchandise stores, similar to the original market. The new market has fully enclosed buildings which allows for temperature-controlled rooms and less risk of contamination from outdoor elements.
Tsukiji Outer Market today and onward
Although visiting the new Toyosu Market has its perks, exploring the original Tsukiji Outer Market remains a great choice. The market consists of about 450 shops with various foods including ice cream, grilled meats, desserts and the freshest sushi you will ever have. It is a must-see attraction when sightseeing around Tokyo.
As you approach the Tsukiji Outer Market entrance, you are greeted by small stands selling viral snacks you’ve seen all over social media. You’ll find it hard to resist making your first impulsive purchase with tempting treats like strawberry mochi, meat skewers and tanghulu on display. Further into the market, you will find more unique, local fare including, octopus on a stick, mini chirashi don, egg omelet on a stick and grilled squid.
While the Tsukiji Outer Market remains in business, the plot of land that used to be the wholesale operations of the fish market is no longer in business since the transfer to the Toyosu Market. Therefore, the Tokyo metropolitan government has decided to build on the unused land to construct a new 50,000-capacity stadium, a hotel and commercial developments.
The Tsukiji Outer Market will continue to stand as an important representation of Tokyo’s history and food culture. The market remains a place for locals and tourists to come together and share good eats.
