Tsukiji Fish Market Review: Visit, Eat, and Shop for Seafood, Sweets, and More

What to Eat at Tsukiji Fish Market: Must-Try Dishes

Wondering what to eat at Tsukiji Fish Market? Honestly, you could eat your way through the entire market. But if you want to start with the essentials, here are the must-try dishes.

1) Famous Sushi & Sashimi Shops

Tsukiji Fish Market is famous for its incredibly fresh raw fish — sushi lovers will be in heaven.

If you want the real deal, look for sushi shops with long queues.

Going early in the morning means shorter wait times.

2) Loaded Seafood Rice Bowls (Kaisendon)

This is a dish you have to order once you're at the fish market.

Popular toppings include tuna, ikura (salmon roe), hotate (scallop), and of course... uni (sea urchin).

If you find a shop with fresh uni, it's well worth trying — absolutely delicious.

3) Sweet Rolled Omelette (Tamagoyaki)

Another iconic food of Tsukiji Fish Market.

Fragrant, slightly sweet, and soft.

Some shops sell it on small skewers, easy to eat while walking.

4) Fresh Oysters / Grilled Seafood

Big, plump oysters with a squeeze of lemon are excellent.

Grilled squid and scallops fill the air with an aroma that's hard to resist.

5) Japanese Snacks: Mochi, Sweets, Eel, and More

If you don't eat raw fish, don't worry — there's plenty of variety here.

Mochi and Japanese sweets

Grilled eel with sweet sauce

Some shops also offer other savory dishes.

Tip: if you're visiting in a group, order different dishes and share them — it's more fun and better value.

Shopping at Tsukiji Fish Market: Souvenirs and Japanese Kitchenware 🛍️

Many people think Tsukiji Fish Market is only about food, but the shopping here is just as great — especially for anyone who loves cooking or wants an authentic Japanese souvenir.

Popular souvenirs

Seaweed / dried fish / dashi powder

Japanese seasonings (some shops offer a wide selection)

Green tea / Japanese sweets

Japanese Knives & Kitchenware 🔪

Tsukiji Fish Market is also known for its knife shops.

High-quality Japanese knives with beautiful design and durability.

They make a great gift for anyone who loves cooking, or a stylish treat to buy for yourself.

Good to know: if you buy a knife, pack it in your checked luggage (it cannot be carried onboard).

Tips for the Best Tsukiji Fish Market Experience ✅

Go early: arriving between 7:00–9:00 makes it easier to walk around and get a table at popular shops.

Carry some cash: many shops mainly accept cash.

Wear comfortable shoes: there's a lot of walking, and some areas can get slippery when it rains.

Avoid peak days: if possible, visit on a weekday, when the market is less crowded than on weekends and public holidays.

Share your food: going with friends is best — order a variety of dishes and share them.

Don't stand and eat in the walkway: the market's paths are narrow, so stay to the side or find a proper spot to stand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tsukiji Fish Market

Q1: Can you still visit Tsukiji Fish Market?

Yes, you can! The outer market, where most visitors go, is still open as usual and has plenty of food.

Q2: Where can you watch the tuna auction?

The main wholesale market, including the tuna auction, has moved to Toyosu Fish Market.

Q3: What's the best time to visit?

We recommend going before 9 a.m., when it's easier to walk around, shops are still open, and items haven't sold out yet.

Q4: Do you need to book a tour?

It's not necessary — it's easy to explore on your own. But if you'd like a guide to take you to the best spots, a tour is an option.

Final Thoughts on Tsukiji Fish Market & Why You Should Visit

If you're planning a trip to Tokyo and want an authentic Japanese fresh seafood experience, Tsukiji Fish Market is a must-visit. It's easy to reach, has a lively atmosphere, and offers a huge variety of food and souvenir shopping all in one place.

If this article helped, feel free to share it with friends who are planning their trip to Japan.