Tsukiji Outer Market is a cluster of food shops, stalls and small restaurants in Tokyo’s Chuo City, near the former wholesale market site. The wholesale fish market moved to Toyosu in 2018, but Tsukiji is still a rewarding stop for seafood, Japanese ingredients and kitchenware. Browse the narrow lanes, then try sushi or sashimi, grilled scallops or tamagoyaki, a rolled omelet often sold on a stick. Go in the morning for more choice, and allow time to look beyond the busiest stalls.
What remains at Tsukiji
Tsukiji was once home to Tokyo’s wholesale fish market, including its famous tuna auctions. The wholesale operation moved to Toyosu in October 2018. The outer market remains at the original Tsukiji site, with food shops, stalls and restaurants along narrow lanes.
The change can be confusing if you arrive expecting to watch an auction. Tsukiji Outer Market is now the place to browse and eat; the wholesale market and auctions are at Toyosu. The market’s restaurants and small food businesses continue to draw people looking for seafood and Japanese ingredients.
What to eat and browse
Seafood is the main draw. Look for sushi and sashimi, or choose something grilled, such as scallops. Tamagoyaki, a rolled Japanese omelet, is sold as a snack, and onigiri are another option. Some stalls also serve unagi, or eel. With food available from both stalls and sit-down restaurants, you can make a quick stop or pause for a meal.
The market sells more than ready-to-eat food. Shops carry fresh and processed seafood, produce, seaweed and other Japanese ingredients. You can also browse kitchenware, including knives and utensils. Take time to look through the smaller lanes, where the mix of specialist shops and food counters gives the area its character.
Planning your visit
Mornings are the practical choice: stalls and restaurants begin closing by mid-afternoon, and the selection is better earlier in the day. Arriving before noon can also help you avoid the busiest period. Crowds gather around popular food spots, so consider exploring beyond the most prominent stalls rather than committing to a long queue.
Bring cash because not every vendor accepts cards; an ATM is available inside the market. Tsukiji is a working food district, so leave room for people moving goods and shopping. If your main aim is the tuna auction, go to Toyosu instead. The auction is no longer held at Tsukiji.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the tuna auction held at Tsukiji Outer Market?
No. The wholesale market and tuna auctions moved to Toyosu in 2018. Tsukiji Outer Market remains open for shops, stalls and restaurants.
What can you eat at Tsukiji Outer Market?
Options include sushi, sashimi, grilled scallops, tamagoyaki, onigiri and unagi. You can also eat at the market’s small restaurants.
When is the best time to visit Tsukiji Outer Market?
Go in the morning for more choice. Many stalls and restaurants close by mid-afternoon, and crowds tend to build around noon.
Should I bring cash to Tsukiji Outer Market?
Yes. Some vendors do not accept cards. An ATM is available inside the market.
