Toyosu Fish Market is one of the world’s largest and most renowned wholesale fish markets. Located in Tokyo, Japan, it’s a bustling hub of activity where millions of pounds of seafood are traded daily. The market replaced the historic Tsukiji Fish Market in 2018, offering a modern and efficient space for fishmongers and buyers.
What to Expect
A visit to Toyosu Fish Market is a sensory experience. You’ll be greeted by the sights, sounds, and smells of fresh seafood. From the early morning tuna auction to the vibrant retail stalls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
- Tuna Auction: Witness the thrilling spectacle of the daily tuna auction, where massive tuna are sold at competitive prices.
- Fresh Seafood: Explore the market’s vast selection of fresh seafood, including fish, shellfish, and other marine delicacies.
- Retail Stalls: Purchase high-quality seafood at competitive prices from the many retail stalls throughout the market.
- Dining Options: Indulge in delicious seafood dishes at one of the many restaurants and cafes located within the market.
Planning Ahead
Registering for the Tuna Auction:
One of the most popular attractions at Toyosu Fish Market is the daily tuna auction. To secure a viewing spot, you’ll need to register in advance. Here’s how:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official website of Toyosu Fish Market and look for the registration information.
- Choose a Viewing Date: Select the date you’d like to attend the auction.
- Fill Out the Registration Form: Provide the necessary details, such as your name, contact information, and number of attendees.
- Submit Your Registration: Once you’ve completed the form, submit it according to the instructions provided.
Important Notes:
- Advance pre-application: You need to pre-register for the tuna auction before the specified application deadline which happens around the first week of the month before the month you plan to visit. For example, to be part of the selection bid for a November visit (let’s say 28th November 2024), I needed to register by the end of 8th October 2024. It is more than a month and a half before so you will need to plan ahead!
- Raffle system: There are 100 slots each day for Tuna Auction viewing. The selection of viewing slots is currently done through a raffle system. After submitting your pre-registration, you’ll need to check the official website approximately 10 days later to on a designated web link see if you’ve been selected.
- Even if you do not get selected in the raffle, do not despair. you can still visit the Market and view the Tuna Auction from the Visitor’s Walkway on the second floor, according to the Toyosu Market website.
Getting to Toyosu Fish Market
Transportation Options
Toyosu Fish Market is conveniently located and easily accessible by public transportation. Here are the main options:
- Yurikamome Line: This is the most direct way to reach the market. Take the Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi Station or Shinonome Station to Toyosu Station.
- Bus: Several bus routes serve Toyosu Fish Market. Check the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation website for the latest schedules and routes. If you are coming from Shinbashi or Ariake, there is a new bus system called BRT which only takes 10min to Toyosu Market, a fast and a convenient way to get there.
- Taxi: If you are not near the train or bus stations but the distance is close, Taxi is an easy option since there are new bridges taking you directly from Central Tokyo to Toyosu.
Exploring Toyosu Fish Market
The Fish Market
The daily tuna auction is a must-see spectacle at Toyosu Fish Market. Witness the excitement as hundreds of tuna are sold at lightning speed. The auction starts at around 5:30 AM, and you would need to register in advance as noted above. You can also enjoy sushi and sashimi at newly build restaurant section near the monorail station.
Vegetable Market
In addition to the fish market, Toyosu also has a bustling vegetable market. Here, you can find a wide variety of fresh produce being traded, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The market is a great place to learn about seasonal vegetables and fruits in Japan. Visitors can walkthrough a new second floor viewing path to see the entire market from above. You can also see the vegetable auctions starting 6.30am. For this, there is no need for registration.
The Wrap-Up
Toyosu Fish Market is a fascinating destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in witnessing the tuna auction, exploring the fresh produce market, or indulging in delicious seafood, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
I hope you found this blog post helpful! If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.
