Known as the "kitchen of Tokyo," Tsukiji Fish Market is one of Japan's most renowned markets for seafood. With a long history dating back to the Edo period, it has been lined with popular eateries among market workers for generations. Numerous restaurants here showcase the exquisite skills of chefs in serving up authentic Japanese cuisine and incredibly fresh seafood dishes. As word has spread, Tsukiji has become a hit with tourists too, lauded as an insider's food destination in Tokyo where you can enjoy genuine flavors at reasonable prices. Today, we'll introduce four standout gourmet spots in Tsukiji that you simply can't miss.
丸豊 ― Marutoyo Onigiri Shop
This incredibly popular onigiri (rice ball) shop in Tsukiji's outer market area is perpetually swarmed by long lines. We queued for around an hour on a Saturday morning at 9am before being able to make our purchases. Even on weekdays, the lines are just as long, so arrive early if you have your sights set on particular items.
Their tuna maki (rolled sushi) brimming with fresh fillings is a bestseller, but the oversize onigiri are also a staple, with over 1,000 sold daily. Take your pick from classic flavors like:
- “Limited Quantity” Tuna(salmon, eel, etc.) Maki - 626 yen
- All sort of Onigiri - from 198 yen
丸武 ― Marutake
Opening bright and early at 3am, the chefs at Marutake meticulously grill thick, fluffy omelets one by one. Their traditional omelets flavored with dashi broth have a wonderful savory-sweet taste that's incredibly popular among Japanese diners. Recently, it seems they've gained a following among international visitors too - when we visited, the line was a lively mix of languages. At just 150 yen per omelet, it's an absolute steal. The quick turnover also makes this a great spot for a fast, tasty bite.
斎藤水産 ― Saito Suisan
At this seafood shop, you can savor incredibly fresh fish like whole bluefin tuna, Japanese spiny lobsters, and littleneck clams. The store front also offers delicacies like seasonal fish and raw oysters at reasonable prices. Seafood lovers, why not pick out a whole fresh fish to take home and challenge yourself to prepare it? It may be a little hidden away, but it's well worth seeking out if you love sashimi and sushi.
築地そらつき ― Tsukiji Soratsuki
Delicious eats in Tsukiji aren't just about savory dishes - you'll need something sweet after your meal too! When dessert cravings hit, Tsukiji Soratsuki is a perfect stop. Here you can indulge in traditional Japanese confections like Tsukiji daifuku (sweet rice cakes), Tsukiji ichigo daifuku (stuffed with a whole strawberry), and creamy warabi mochi. The ichigo daifuku, with its sweet strawberry encased in chewy mochi, is an especially popular treat.
Still a Thriving Haven After Relocation to Toyosu
Credit : PhotoAC
While the main Tsukiji Fish Market relocated to the more hygienic Toyosu site in 2018, the outer market surrounding the old Tsukiji location remains vibrant. Many long-established restaurants and shops continue operating here, still drawing enthusiastic crowds of tourists. The outer market retains its old-world charm, with remnants of the professional equipment used when it primarily served industry workers. However, efforts have been made recently to cater to international visitors, with increased English signage and clearer navigation.
On the other hand, the new Toyosu Market has facilities specifically designed for tourists, allowing you to observe the lively wholesale operations up close. You can even freely enter the auction area through a designated observer's corridor, experiencing the electric atmosphere of the famous tuna auctions firsthand.
Let's Satisfy Our Appetites in This Vibrant Culinary Town!
The name "Tsukiji" is written with Japanese kanji characters meaning "reclaimed land" - a nod to how the market was built on an area that was once submerged underwater. Many Japanese place names hint at their origins through the kanji used, which is an intriguing aspect to pay attention to.
What was once solely a wholesale market has transformed, with popular eateries continuously opening to cater to tourists. Nowadays, the outer market is an accessible foodie destination even for general visitors. In addition to the long-standing restaurants serving market workers, cafes and dessert shops appealing to the public have proliferated here. Being able to savor exquisite fare crafted by master chefs at reasonable prices is Tsukiji's greatest draw. When visiting Tokyo, be sure to experience the vibrant culinary town of Tsukiji and indulge in its iconic Edomae flavors.
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