Tsukiji Outer Market is one of the best places in Tokyo to experience Japanese street food and fresh seafood.
Although the famous tuna auction moved to Toyosu Market, Tsukiji remains a lively food destination filled with restaurants, food stalls, and seafood vendors.
This guide explains what to eat, when to visit, and how to explore the market.
Tsukiji Outer Market sits just a short walk from the Ginza district.
👉 See our Ginza Travel Guide for things to do nearby.
What Is Tsukiji Outer Market?
Tsukiji Outer Market is the public shopping and dining area that surrounds the former Tsukiji fish market.
Highlights include:
• Fresh seafood stalls
• Sushi restaurants
• Street food vendors
• Japanese kitchenware shops
It remains one of the most popular food destinations in Tokyo.
Best Foods to Try
Tsukiji is famous for its fresh seafood.
Popular foods include:
• Sushi and sashimi
• Fresh tuna bowls (maguro don)
• Grilled scallops
• Tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette)
• Seafood skewers
Many stalls offer quick bites perfect for walking through the market.
Best Time to Visit
Tsukiji Outer Market is busiest during the morning.
Best visiting times include:
• Early morning (8–10 AM)
• Weekdays for fewer crowds
Many stalls close by early afternoon.
Toyosu Market vs Tsukiji Market
Toyosu Market replaced Tsukiji as Tokyo’s main wholesale fish market.
However:
• Toyosu focuses on wholesale auctions
• Tsukiji remains the best place for food stalls and restaurants
Many travellers visit both markets.
How to Get to Tsukiji Outer Market
The market is located in central Tokyo.
Nearest stations include:
• Tsukiji Station (Hibiya Line)
• Tsukiji-Shijo Station (Oedo Line)
IC cards such as Suica or Pasmo can be used for transport.
See our Suica & Pasmo Guide for details.
How Much Time Do You Need?
Most visitors spend:
• 1–2 hours exploring the market.
Tsukiji is often combined with nearby areas such as Ginza.
See our Tokyo Travel Guide for more sightseeing ideas.
FAQ: Tsukiji Outer Market
Is Tsukiji market still open?
Yes — the outer market remains open.
Can you still see the tuna auction at Tsukiji?
No — it moved to Toyosu Market.
Is Tsukiji worth visiting?
Yes — it is one of the best places to try fresh seafood in Tokyo.
Final Thoughts
Tsukiji Outer Market remains one of the most exciting food destinations in Tokyo.
Exploring the market offers a great opportunity to try authentic Japanese seafood and street food.
For full travel planning advice, explore our Japan Itineraries.
Explore More Destinations in Japan
Japan offers a wide variety of destinations, from vibrant cities and historic temples to scenic mountain towns and coastal regions.
If you are planning a multi-city trip, you may also want to explore these popular destinations:
• Tokyo – Japan’s modern capital filled with iconic districts and skyline views
• Kyoto – historic temples, shrines, and traditional neighbourhoods
• Osaka – famous street food culture and vibrant nightlife
• Nara – an easy cultural day trip known for temples and friendly deer
• Hakone – hot springs and Mount Fuji views near Tokyo
• Kanazawa – samurai districts and traditional gardens
• Takayama – a preserved mountain town in the Japanese Alps
👉 See our Best Places to Visit in Japan guide for a complete destination overview.