Toyosu Fish Market, one of the largest wholesale seafood markets in the world, is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Located in Tokyo, Japan, this modern market replaced the historic Tsukiji Fish Market in 2018 and offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s seafood culture, including the renowned tuna auction.
In late November, I had the opportunity to visit the Toyosu Fish Market with my husband and guests from South Africa. Our experience, filled with the excitement of the early-morning tuna auction and nostalgic reflections on a visit to Tsukiji 25 years ago, gave us a unique perspective on how this iconic market has evolved over time. Here, I’ll share insights from our visit and tips to help you plan your own.
What to Expect: The Tuna Auction Experience
The tuna auction is one of the most thrilling spectacles at Toyosu Fish Market. Our visit late November last year required us to arrive at the tuna auction building by 5:30 AM. While visitors without reservations can view the auction from corridor windows, we had the privilege of being in a reserved viewing room. This room, situated between the public viewing corridor and the auction floor, provided a vivid and comprehensive view of the entire auctioning area, including both fresh and frozen tuna sections.
There were about 40 attendees that morning, mostly foreign visitors, accompanied by two knowledgeable guides. One of the guides was fluent in English, while the other, though not English-speaking, demonstrated deep familiarity with the auctioning process. From this vantage point, we could observe the energy and precision of the auctioneers and buyers. The fast-paced bidding, hand gestures, and intense focus created an atmosphere of excitement.
The viewing room’s large windows allowed us to capture stunning photos, offering a rare perspective that made the experience feel immersive despite the glass barrier. For my husband and me, this modern, organized approach contrasted starkly with our Tsukiji visit 25 years ago, when we could walk freely around the auction floor and stand just feet away from the massive tuna. While the new system is highly efficient and visitor-friendly, we couldn’t help but feel a slight sense of nostalgia for the more raw, unfiltered experience of the past.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
1. Booking in Advance
Securing a spot for the tuna auction requires careful planning. The registration system operates on a raffle basis, with only 100 slots available each day. Applications must be submitted well in advance—at least one to two months before your intended visit. For example, we had to apply by early October to secure a viewing slot for late November.
Even if you’re not selected, you can still view the auction from the public walkway on the second floor. However, the reserved viewing area offers a more comprehensive and exclusive perspective.
Check out my earlier post below for further details on the booking process.
2. Getting There Early
The tuna auction begins at 5:30 AM, but public transportation, such as the Rinkai Line and buses, may not be operational that early. We opted for a car-sharing service, which cost less than round-trip taxi fares and allowed us flexibility for the morning, especially if you spend above ¥2000 at the Toyosu shops to get free parking. Consider arranging similar transport to ensure a stress-free arrival.
3. Exploring Beyond the Tuna Auction
Toyosu Market also hosts a vibrant vegetable auction starting at 6:00 AM in a nearby building. Unlike the tuna auction, no reservations are required, making it an excellent option for spontaneous visitors. After the auctions, the market’s restaurants offer an array of fresh sushi and sashimi dishes. While we didn’t dine at the market due to time constraints, I would highly recommend a post-auction meal to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Reflections on Tsukiji vs. Toyosu
Having visited Tsukiji Fish Market 25 years ago, the evolution to Toyosu is striking. Back then, the lack of barriers allowed visitors to walk amidst the auctioning activity, creating an unparalleled sense of authenticity. Today, Toyosu’s glass-enclosed viewing areas and structured tours reflect the market’s shift to accommodate its global popularity. While some authenticity may feel diminished, the trade-off is a safer, more organized experience that welcomes visitors from around the world.
If you’re craving the lively street market atmosphere of Tsukiji, consider visiting the old Tsukiji Outer Market. Many shops and stalls there still serve fresh seafood sourced from Toyosu, offering a delightful mix of tradition and modernity.
The Wrap
Visiting Toyosu Fish Market is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re witnessing the exhilarating tuna auction or exploring the vegetable market. The key to a successful visit is planning ahead, particularly for the early morning auctions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning after decades, Toyosu offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich seafood culture.
I hope this guide inspires you to plan your own visit to Toyosu Fish Market in the near future.
