Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo

The Tsukiji Fish Market, once the heart of Tokyo's culinary scene, was renowned as the world's largest and busiest fish market. Located in central Tokyo, it was a bustling hub of activity where the freshest seafood from around the globe was bought and sold. With origins dating back to the 16th century, Tsukiji was more than just a market; it was a cultural landmark that played a significant role in Japan's food industry.

For decades, Tsukiji Fish Market was synonymous with the finest sushi-grade fish, drawing in chefs, food enthusiasts, and tourists alike. It was famous for its early morning tuna auctions, where gigantic bluefin tuna were sold at prices that often soared into the tens of thousands of dollars. The market was a sensory overload, with endless rows of stalls displaying an array of sea creatures, from the common to the exotic.

The inner market of Tsukiji, known for its wholesale operations, was a restricted area where professional buyers and chefs from high-end restaurants would haggle over the best cuts of seafood. Meanwhile, the outer market was open to the public, offering a wide variety of food items, kitchen tools, and restaurants serving the freshest sushi and sashimi.

In October 2018, the wholesale operations of Tsukiji were relocated to the new Toyosu Market, a few kilometers away. The move was prompted by concerns over the aging facilities and the need for more modern infrastructure to meet stringent food safety standards. While the inner market has moved, the outer market remains at Tsukiji, preserving its legacy and continuing to attract locals and tourists for its unique dining experiences and atmosphere.