Tsukiji Fish Market Tour

Tsukiji. (S'KEE-JEE)

There are lots of fish markets all over the world. But there are fish markets and then there are FISH MARKETS!! And after that, you have Tsukiji.

Tsukiji is entirely unique. Not because of the sheer size and variety of seafood, but because of the history and tradition of HOW the seafood is prepared, auctioned, transported and sold. From the live-fish auctions, to the massive fresh and frozen tuna auctions, to the specialized areas and dealers that handle only sea urchin meat (uni), to the small but wonderful restaurants and stalls surrounding the market... there is truly no where else quite like it.

If you plan on visiting Tokyo, Tsukiji should be very near the top of your "must do/see/eat" list. There is a detailed Wiki on Tsukiji at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsukiji_fish_market However to appreciate the full Tsukiji experience, help is needed. A local english speaking guide is not cheap, but very very worthwhile. Otherwise you are at risk being stuck at only the frozen tuna section along with all the other tourists.

The photos and the descriptions in my pages here in pbase, were only possible because of the help i got from my guide Nakamura-san. He used to work at Tsukiji and now does daily guides from 4am to 6am. (Yes! you need to get there that early!) His web page is at http://homepage3.nifty.com/tokyoworks/TsukijiTour/TsukijiTourEng.htm If you do plann to take a tour, my advice is to book early to avoid disappointment. His tours are usually limited to 4-6 people.)