Tokyo: Part 2

The next day we woke up early to explore the tuna market or more formally know as the Tsukiji Fish Market. It was super close to our hotel which was an added bonus. To be able to see the tuna auction, you have to get up super early (like 4 a.m. early) to put your name on a list. There are two lists, with 60 people allowed for each group. First viewing starts at 5:25a.m. and the second showing is at 5:50a.m. We didn't want to wake up  that early (Mom was already super jet lagged) and not make one of the groups, so we went at 9a.m. when it opens to the public. Still plenty to see!

The Tsukiji Market (築地市場, Tsukiji Shijō) is a large wholesale market for fish, fruits and vegetables. It is one of the world's largest fish markets, handling over 2,000 tons of marine products per day. If you plan on going, know that it is expected to move to a new site in Toyosu by spring 2016.

Lots of trucks and scooters whipping in and out so keep a look out. Mom and I had some close calls. That whole yield concept doesn't really apply here. 


The market consists of an inner market where most of the wholesale business and the tune auctions take place. The outer market is more retail shops and restaurants that cater to the public. Of course I had to pick up a few things that we found at the little hardware-type store.

Fresh ferns.

Rubber boots for sale for the fishermen.

Local sushi restaurant with people lined up to taste the fresh catch of the day. There were tons of little places like this dotted throughout the market. We decided it was a little early for lunch so we did a small detour before coming back for a sushi lunch.

Now for the good stuff- the fish! Every sort of fish you can imagine and then some was available here. There were a few other tourists straggling around. We did our best to stay out of their way. As long as you weren't interfering, they had no problem with you taking as many pictures as your little heart desires. 

I loved all the octopus

This guy was handling sea urchins with no gloves.

Fish heads- who's hungry?

More shopping outside of the fish market. Great porcelain pieces for sale everywhere. I picked up a set of bowls. Wish I would have bought more!

Random temple that we passed by.

A garden we had seen from our hotel was nearby so we checked it out. 

A local couple taking wedding photos.

Peony gardens- my favorite! I was loving it! I went a little crazy with the pictures. May have to blow some of these up for some framed prints.

We headed back to the market for some sushi. Any of these local spots are excellent. We just picked one that looked good and walked in.

So fresh and delicious. Seriously some of the best I have ever had. The lady next to us had something that looked like a slug. Was so tempted to take a photo of it, but restrained myself. I did ask her about it and all she could say was "delicous". I took her word for it.

A few more shots before we got on the train to head to Kyoto.

The Tsukiji market is located near the Tsukijishijō Station on the Toei Ōedo Line and Tsukiji Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line. Most hotels will have info on it and can point you in the right direction. They should also have details on the auctions if you want to get up early to see what it is all about. Check out the Wikipedia page for more details.