Visit Japan Web Tsukiji
Visit Japan Web invites you to explore Tsukiji , situated on land that. It was reclaimed from what used to be lowland marshes along the Sumida River delta. During the Tokugawa period, earth from the shogunate’s moat and canal excavations was methodically used to fill in the marshes along the river, leading to the creation of new commercial districts and waterfront housing. The area was subsequently named Tsukiji (築地), which means “constructed land” or “reclaimed land”.
From 1935 to late 2018, Tsukiji housed one of the world’s most renowned fish markets. While the inner section has relocated to nearby Toyosu, the outer market remains a fascinating destination. The Tsukiji Uogashi fresh market in the outer market boasts around 60 shops. It allows visitors to witness professionals filleting whole tunas. The Tsukiji area, situated on Tokyo Bay and within walking distance from Ginza, is a must-visit for tourists. Here, you can savor the freshest sushi for breakfast at surrounding restaurants or purchase unique souvenirs, from seaweed to sushi knives and handmade ceramics.
Although the fish market has moved to Toyosu, numerous sushi, seafood, and other restaurants still thrive in the Tsukiji Outer Market. Many of these chefs have accumulated decades of training and expertise. Exploring the side streets, you’ll also encounter vendors selling rolled omelettes, broiled seafood, and jumbo-sized rice balls, among other snacks.
Furthermore, the market houses its own shrine, Namiyoke-jinja—meaning “protection from the waves”. This shrine serves as the guardian shrine of Tsukiji, where traders visit to pray for prosperous business. Although modest in size, the shrine is well-maintained and just a short walk from the main part of Tsukiji, making it a worthwhile stop for shrine enthusiasts.
