About Tsukiji
Explore the riverside of Sumida, a place where you will find tranquillity and a chance at contemplation. But that’s not it. The island also displays a busy skyline where the headquarters of many companies are located. You can also visit the St. Luke's Garden where there are several towers providing a rooftop view of the entire city. There are offices, residential buildings, and a hotel as well.
Tsukiji Highlights
• Explore and shop around the outer market where hierarchal shopkeepers have covered the land with fish restaurants, supply stores, shops, and stalls.
• Witness the waterfront view of Tsukiji Island where the Sumida River flows and promises a soothing and rejuvenating aura to the tourists.
• Visit St. Luke's Garden where you will find several skyscrapers like Odaiba and Tokyo Tower and a beautiful view of the entire city.
• Learn the history of Tsukiji Island at several western connections found there, including the St. Joseph's Catholic Church which was constructed in 1878.
• Seek blessings of Lord Buddha at Tsukiji Honganji; a temple with its roots in the 17th century and a fusion of Asian and Hindu customs.
How To Reach Tsukiji
- By Train: Board the JR Yamanote train to Hamamatsucho Station. From there you can take the Toei-Oedo Line and reach Tsukiji-Shijo Station. Alternatively, the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Tsukiji Station is also available. Both the stations are at a 5-minute walking distance from the market.
- By Bus: Board the Toei Bus from Shimbashi Station and get down at Tsukiji-Sanchome. It will take only 7 minutes to reach the island from there.
Best Time To Visit Tsukiji
Tsukiji Island is open to the public throughout the year. Plan your visit between September and November to experience mild and pleasant weather. Visit early morning between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. to attend the famous tuna auction and get the best seafood.
Tsukiji Other Essential Information
- Plan to arrive around 4:30-5:00 am to catch the tuna auction and experience the market at its liveliest.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot and dress in layers as early mornings can be chilly.
- Be respectful of the vendors and traders as the market is a place of business for many people.
- Have enough yen as many small vendors and restaurants in the outer market prefer cash.
- While many vendors speak some English, knowing basic Japanese greetings and phrases can enhance your experience.
Explore the Tsukiji Outer Market
The outer market of this island is crowded by local street vendors, restaurants, and supply chains. It gives you an immersive experience of the culinary tradition of Japan. The markets are famous for fish and tuna trading, attracting food explorers. There you will find a range of seafood, vegetables, fruits, and other food items. You can also indulge in samplings of sushi, grilled scallops, and tamagoyaki. There are small shops selling Japanese cooking essentials and kitchenware.
Experience serenity at the Hongan-ji Temple
The famous temple is located at a walking distance from the outer market. Its distinctive architecture is inspired by Indian and South Asian designs. The Shinshu Buddhist Temple offers a serene atmosphere where visitors can feel profound peace. You will see stained-glass windows and a Buddha statue in the main hall. Numerous religious and cultural events are celebrated here around the year in which you can actively participate.
Visit the Namiyoke Inari Shrine
The literal translation of this shrine is “protector from waves''. It holds a special place in everyone’s hearts and is particularly popular among traders. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of worldly success and prosperity. It serves as the protector of fishermen and traders. As you explore the shrine, you will see intriguing Shinto architecture and colourful torii gates. The shrine is known to host various festivals like the Tsukiji Shishi Matsuri, held annually.
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