After nearly 80 years, Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market to be demolished

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market, a popular tourist destination in Japan, will disappear within three years. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government plans to spend $4.5 billion to demolish the market and relocate it to an artificial island equipped with temperature control and a modern distribution center. The market’s original 50-acre site will be developed into high-rise apartments and a tunnel that will connect the new buildings to various venues built for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

▲ The shopping street near Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market is home to many well-known Japanese restaurants. (Photo provided by netizen Elaine)

Tsukiji Fish Market is considered the world’s largest fish market, having operated since 1935 — now with a history of 78 years. “Tsukiji is the beating heart of the sushi culture around the world,” said a former local council member. The market offers a wide variety of the freshest catch, including silver sardines, large crabs, octopuses, and mysterious deep-sea giants, which are supplied daily to sushi restaurants and grocery stores.

▲ Restaurants near Tsukiji Fish Market sell fresh sashimi and seafood dishes. (Photo provided by netizen Elaine)

Opponents of the Tsukiji relocation argue that the market is one of Tokyo’s most iconic tourist spots — not just a fish market but also a brand and cultural symbol. Supporters, however, believe that Tsukiji has often been criticized in recent years for being outdated, unhygienic, and expensive. They say it must keep up with the times by moving to a new site with full facilities, and that the famous Tsukiji name still holds great potential for future development.

▲ The exterior of Tsukiji Fish Market, which has a history of nearly 80 years. (Photo provided by netizen Elaine)

In fact, the idea of relocating the market was first proposed 14 years ago, but most shop owners opposed it at the time, even sparking large-scale protests. This time, at least 700 businesses have changed their stance to support the move. The relocation of Tsukiji Fish Market is now a done deal, and local residents are now concerned that the over 400 restaurants and shops surrounding the market may also disappear along with it.