Tsukiji Today: Outer Market vs. Toyosu
When people say "Tsukiji," they usually mean one of two things. The famous wholesale tuna auctions moved to Toyosu Market in October 2018. But the Outer Market—the warren of stalls, restaurants, and shops that surrounded the old inner market—remains very much alive and is still one of Tokyo's best food experiences. This guide focuses on the Outer Market, which is what most visitors want.
What to Eat at Tsukiji Outer Market
The Outer Market is best experienced on foot, eating as you go. Portions are small, prices are reasonable, and the variety is staggering.
Sushi for breakfast is the classic Tsukiji experience. A sushi set at one of the counter restaurants will cost ¥2,000–5,000 and will be some of the freshest fish you've eaten. Arrive before 10am for shorter queues at popular spots like Sushi Dai (now relocated to Toyosu but many similar quality options remain at Tsukiji).
Tamagoyaki (grilled egg): Tsukiji's square omelette stalls are famous. Shops like Marutake offer freshly made tamagoyaki on skewers for around ¥100–150. They come plain, sweet, or with dashi—try more than one.
Grilled seafood skewers line the main alley. Scallops, squid, and prawns are grilled to order. Expect to spend ¥200–500 per skewer.
Sea urchin and salmon roe: Multiple stalls sell uni and ikura by the spoonful or on rice. If you've never tried fresh sea urchin, this is the place.
Knife shopping: Tsukiji has some of Tokyo's best knife shops, including Masamoto and Aritsugu. A good Japanese chef's knife makes an excellent souvenir.
Opening Hours and Best Times to Visit
Most Outer Market stalls open around 5:00–6:00am and close by 2:00pm, though many popular spots sell out by noon. The best time to visit is early morning (before 9am) when stalls are fully stocked and the atmosphere is at its liveliest. Wednesday is typically the quietest weekday.
The market is closed on Wednesdays (some stalls), Sundays, and Japanese national holidays. Check the Tsukiji website before visiting on public holidays.
Getting to Tsukiji
The closest stations are Tsukiji Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, exit 1) and Tsukijishijo Station (Toei Oedo Line, exit A1), which deposits you directly at the market entrance. From Shinjuku, take the Oedo Line directly (about 20 minutes). From Ginza, the Hibiya Line takes 5 minutes.
Tsukiji is also walkable from Ginza (about 15 minutes on foot) and from the waterfront near Hama-rikyu Gardens.
Toyosu Market: For the Tuna Auctions
If you want to watch the tuna auction, you need to visit Toyosu Market, not Tsukiji. Auction viewing requires advance reservation through the Tokyo Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market website. Slots fill up months in advance, especially for the 5:45am viewing slot. The auction itself lasts only about 20–30 minutes but is a fascinating spectacle—enormous frozen tuna lined up while buyers with headlamps examine them before bidding begins.
Toyosu is reached via the Yurikamome monorail line from Shimbashi Station. The market's 6th and 7th floor food halls are also excellent for a sushi breakfast after the auction.
Nearby Attractions
Combine Tsukiji with a morning at Hama-rikyu Gardens (10 minutes on foot), a beautifully preserved feudal-era garden with a teahouse on a tidal pond. From there, take the Sumida River water bus to Asakusa—one of Tokyo's most scenic ferry rides at ¥800. The combination of Tsukiji market breakfast, garden walk, and river ferry makes for a perfect Tokyo morning.
Budget and Practical Tips
Bring cash—most stalls and small restaurants are cash only. A filling Tsukiji breakfast of sushi, tamagoyaki, and a few skewers typically costs ¥2,000–4,000 per person. Bring a reusable bag for purchases. The alleyways are narrow, so avoid bringing large luggage. Wear comfortable shoes—the market area covers significant ground and surfaces can be uneven.