Tsukiji Fish Market: Jan 9, 2010

Tsukiji Market of fish and vegetable is one of the most popular sightseeing spots among foreign tourists in Tokyo.

It is known as the world’s largest fish market.

The market is run by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. It has an area of about 23 hectares and is divided into several parts: tuna auction area, seafood intermediate wholesalers’ area, vegetable and fruits intermediate wholesalers’ area etc.

The wholesale traders start tuna auction as early as five o’clock in the morning. Hundreds of intermediate wholesale traders have their spaces in the market and many customers (including fish shop owners and sushi chefs) come here to buy fish.

There were many consumers when I visited the market in the Saturday morning. Various kinds of fresh fish were displayed. Many vehicles were moving around (Be careful !) The fish prices at the market were far cheaper than those in the town.

Outside the official market, there spread street markets of fish, vegetable and dry foods. The prices of them are cheap, too.

There are also many sushi bars and restaurants in the area. I saw a big tune head in front of a sushi bar (picture). I had a sushi lunch, which was so delicious.

There is a shrine named "Namiyoke Jinja" outside the market. It was build to pray for the peace of the sea and the safety of the fishermen.