Exploring Toyosu Fish Market: Tokyo's Fresh Seafood Destination

Toyosu Fish Market in Tokyo is the world’s largest wholesale fish market. 

It opened in 2018 to replace the famous Tsukiji Market and more than doubled the older facility’s size, measuring in at almost 41 hectares. While Tsukiji was well known as a tourist destination for its lively, almost chaotic atmosphere, the experience at Toyosu is more sanitized and modern.

The Tuna Auction

The main attraction at Toyosu Fish Market is the tuna auction, which takes place between 5:30 and 6:30 each morning. Here, you can see massive bluefin tuna on display as buyers make bids on them. You might notice that the tuna auction area has green floors while the rest of the facility has grey floors. This is to help buyers determine the quality of the red meat of each fish because the color red stands out more clearly against a green backdrop.

Visitors without a reservation can view the auction through windows on the corridors surrounding the auction area. The windows are double-glazed, protecting visitors from the very cool temperatures of the auction room. However, this also takes some of the intimacy from the viewing experience. 

For a more up close and personal experience, you can reserve a spot on the observation deck by visiting the official Toyosu website. The observation deck allows visitors to experience the temperature of the auction room while getting a closer look at the auction proceedings.

Restaurants and Shopping

Toyosu Fish Market also has a large restaurant area where visitors can purchase sushi prepared using fresh fish from the market. Many famous restaurants from the old Tsukiji Market have moved here and set up new shops. You can also purchase sushi-related souvenirs such as knives, pickles, and wasabi graters.

About the author: 

Diarmuid O'Connor