A Culinary Tour of Tsukiji in Tokyo: Savoring the Fresh Tuna at Daiwa Sushi

Known as the Kitchen of Tokyo, Tsukiji Market is truly a treasure trove for budget-conscious travelers. But what makes Tsukiji Market a must-visit? For the Japanese, Tsukiji Market offers a sense of real life, a vibrant local atmosphere, and retains the warmth and hospitality of old Tokyo from the Edo period.

Tsukiji Market is divided into the "Inner Market" and the "Outer Market." The main difference is that the Inner Market deals with freshly landed seafood for wholesale buyers, though visitors are not restricted from entering. The Outer Market, on the other hand, is much more varied, consisting mainly of a series of connected shops selling cooking utensils, dried goods, pickles, and many direct fish cuisine stores—feeling a bit like a much larger version of Dihua Street.

The Inner Market is housed within a large fan-shaped building, with dozens of crisscrossing walkways separating each fish vendor. By 4 a.m., Tsukiji Market becomes bustling as the day’s catch from offshore fishing boats arrives, and auctions begin. Buyers place bids to wholesale the fresh seafood to various parts of Tokyo. The edges of the Inner Market also have numerous small eateries originally intended for market workers. Thanks to media coverage highlighting their fresh and affordable prices, these spots have now become popular among tourists, often with long lines.

Similar to Dihua Street, the Outer Market consists of over 450 tightly packed small shops. Its entrance is at the intersection of Harumi-dori and Shin Ohashi-dori, where you’ll see the large sign reading “Tsukiji Outer Market.” It’s very easy to find. The Outer Market actually grew out of the Inner Market area and sells cooking utensils, pickled goods, dried foods, and more. There are also numerous small food stalls serving sashimi, grilled eel, and sushi rice bowls. Originally catering to vendors from the Inner Market, the quality and freshness gradually attracted many tourists. Since most are run by fishmongers, the ingredients—especially the fish purchased fresh from the Inner Market in the morning—are incredibly fresh, with both the fish and roe having a naturally sweet flavor. Dishes like these would cost thousands at regular restaurants. Though not particularly refined, a single bowl here is definitely filling. For budget-conscious travelers, this is truly a treasure trove.

When visiting the world’s largest fish market, Tsukiji, one cannot miss the famously renowned Edomae sushi shop “Daiwa Sushi.” The sight of customers lining up outside at all times has become one of the iconic scenes of Tsukiji Market. Edomae sushi refers to the dining culture of Edo, the former name of Tokyo, where seasoned raw fish slices were made into nigiri sushi. After the Meiji era, the fish in nigiri sushi began to be served without added seasonings. At a mid-range price, you can enjoy top-quality and abundant sushi. The perfect pairing of vinegared rice and fish, with each grain of rice distinct and the tuna belly brushed with a light sauce, creates an exquisite combination that allows you to rediscover the delicious essence of Edomae sushi.

Address: 6th Building, Tsukiji Inner Market, 5-2-1 Tsukiji, Chuo Ward
Phone: 03-3547-6807~8
Business Hours: 05:30–13:30
Closed: Sundays and public holidays
Price: Regular sushi ¥2100, premium sushi ¥3150

Read more: Kyoto’s Kitchen “Nishiki Market” (Provided by Tripass Travel Spots)