Tsukiji: Rumor vs. Reality
A few months ago, a rumor that the Tsukiji Market would be moving began to seep into my news feed. The world famous tuna auction would close at the end of September 2018, and reopen about four and a half kilometers down the street, in Toyosu. I was planning a trip to Japan at the time, so I was pretty bummed out.
As it turns out, the rumors are only half true. The fish auction has moved, but the outer market is alive and well. This part of the city has been a hub of fishing activity since Tokyo (formerly known as Edo) became the capital in the 1500s. While Tsukiji was only the centerpiece of this enterprise from 1935-2018, it still boasts quality market vendors, fresh fish, and plenty to see
Tsukiji is Still Worth a Visit
The new market and auction in Toyosu is quite a bit farther from the center of Tokyo. It’s also more complicated to travel to on the train. I think Tsukiji will continue to be a popular destination for travelers who love fresh seafood and that grassroots market feeling. Rumors continue to circulate about how the interior auction space at Tsukiji will be used (bus terminal? food theme park?), so be sure to do some research about the market’s current state before visiting.
For now, Tsukiji remains a great place to go for tasty food and drink, premium people watching, and a classic tourist experience. It’s a perfect place to start a day of exploring Tokyo. If you are visiting later in the morning or early afternoon, be prepared for thicker crowds of tour groups. Below are highlights from our early morning jaunt around the outer market.
Pour-Over Coffee
While the weather in the Tokyo area might remind visitors of the Pacific Northwest, the coffee culture in Japan is still in its infancy. So, when you find a good cup of coffee, enjoy every last drop. Yazawa Coffee Roasters was by far the best coffee we had in Japan. Their single origin pour-overs are the perfect accompaniment to an early morning stroll through the market.
Bamboo-Whisked Matcha Latte
I smelled my favorite green powdery goodness before I saw the stand. As the crowds cleared a path to Matcha Stand Maruni, I felt my mouth hanging open and my eyes widening with delight. I was definitely having another hot beverage.
I love matcha, but I get that it’s not for everyone. If you want to try a creamier, sweeter version of matcha, hit up Matcha Stand Maruni and order a matcha latte. They combine hand-whisked matcha with steamed milk, and top with homemade marshmallows. IT. IS. DIVINE.
Fresh Seafood (Obviously)
No trip to Tsukiji Market is complete without a good sampling of sushi and sashimi. There is fresh seafood around every corner of the outer market. Cost varies quite a bit, but there is something for every budget. We opted for a few varieties of fresh sashimi, and ate at a little stand-up bar wedged along the walkway.
Seafood doesn’t get much better than this. Coming from a landlocked part of Canada, these morsels were a real treat. Even now, a few weeks later, I can close my eyes and remember the feeling of the fresh flavors melting in my mouth.
Overall, spending a morning at Tsukiji Market was a great experience, and worth it for the food and drinks available. Has anyone been to new market in Toyosu? Do you have any favorite vendors at Tsukiji Market? Let’s hear about it in the comments!
One response to “Tsukiji Market in Tokyo is Alive and Well”
Great job, as always!👏👏.