From the beginning of February, prepare yourself for a brand NEW revolution in Tokyo’s fish market industry! You’ve probably heard of the Tsukiji Market since it’s incredibly culturally important and beloved by residents of Tokyo. You’ve probably also heard that the inner market has closed. The good news is that the closure wasn’t the end, as the new Toyosu Market opened, and only the inner market moved. In even better news, from today, February 1, 2024, the new facility “Senkyaku Banrai” next to the Toyosu Market is open. You will be able to explore delightful dining and shopping experiences with fresh Toyosu ingredients, relax with the bathing amenities, and stay overnight at the fantastic hotel.
Tsukiji Outer Market – Credit: フリー素材.com
Known as the kitchen of Japan, Tsukiji Market’s story is certainly interesting. The name of Tsukiji originated from “reclaimed land.” Just over 100 years ago, the Kanto Earthquake of 1923 caused significant damage to Tokyo’s markets. Consequently, the big fish market originally located in Nihonbashi, with over 300 years of history, closed its doors and relocated to Tsukiji.
In general, the Tsukiji Market was divided into two main areas: the “inner market” and the “outer market.” However, in 2018, when the Tsukiji Inner Market closed, the question “Has the Tsukiji Market disappeared?” spread across Japan. But don’t worry. The beloved Tsukiji Outer Market is still thriving in the same location and is still a great place to visit for foodies.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tsukiji faced temporary closures and suspensions, but it has regained vibrancy with the return of foreign tourists. This powerful energy gives a delightful atmosphere like never before. Thus, Tsukiji Market is not just a fish market, it’s a continuation of the traditions of the fish market in Nihonbashi, which was once the most vibrant place in the Edo era.
Until now, choosing between Tsukiji and Toyosu, both a bit distant, has often been the ultimate, most difficult decision visitors have to make, given that the fish market is mainly early in the morning. However, the opening of the Senkyaku Banrai Facility will change all of this forever.
Walk and Eat – Credit: HONG FENG
What is the Senkyaku Banrai Facility (千客万来)?
The Senkyaku Banrai Facility is an open mall that recreates the Edo period streets next to the Toyosu Market. Collaborating with the main Toyosu Market and hospitality organization Manyo Club, the concept is to enhance the charm of the Toyosu area, generating liveliness, and contributing to the local community development and revitalization. Also, the Manyo Club emphasizes efforts towards environmental sustainability.
Firstly, the Senkyaku Banrai Facility will offer the Toyosu Outer Market “Edo-Mae Ichiba Edo,” where traditional construction materials such as Mikageishi and Awaji Island’s “Ibushi-Gawara” tiles, and Tama-wood will be used to give the atmosphere of old Edo. This building will have 3 floors above ground and 1 below, with a total floor area of 14,690.63 square meters. They offer casual dining on the first floor, a fresh market experience on the second floor featuring “Mekiki Yokocho” and “Toyosu Menuki Odori,” and a diverse sushi floor on the third. Furthermore, next to Toyosu Market, you’ll savor special seafood, and not just that, Tokyo’s local gourmet, including fresh greengrocers, tempura, eel, soba, and ramen shops.
If you’re interested in Japanese architecture, it’s definitely worth a visit–you can even enjoy food tastings and shopping as well.
Foot Bath – Credit: ゆう62124
Next, the public bath “Tokyo Toyosu Manyo Club,” transports hot springs water from Hakone and Yugawara daily. It offers fantastic open-air baths, saunas, bedrock baths, and massages, providing a relaxing space. In addition, there are foot baths on the rooftop observation deck, where you can overlook the Toyosu landscape. With 9 floors above ground and 1 below, covering a total floor area of 19,095.73 square meters, this huge building offers not only a beautiful rooftop view but also features all-weather event spaces, a kitchen studio, and more.
The area around Toyosu is renowned for its beautiful night view of Tokyo Bay. Please check the website for updates and hotel reservations, which I highly recommend so that you can fully enjoy the Toyosu experience.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/M7y8w4hXWQrhv4io9
Official website: https://www.toyosu-senkyakubanrai.jp/#link1
Tuna Auction at Ex Tsukiji Inner Market – Credit: makoto.h
What is Toyosu Market?
Toyosu Market is located just in front of Shijo-mae station on the Yurikamome monorail. Tsukiji Outer Market doesn’t have auction events, while Toyosu does, so it is recommended for those who want to explore inside a fish market that includes tuna auctions.
However, please note that the market opens at 5 a.m., with auctions starting around 5:30 a.m. If you visit around lunchtime, the market could already be empty so you should consider going in advance! Additionally, Toyosu Market offers the “QR Translator,” supporting 15 languages. By scanning QR codes at various spots with your smartphone, you can get explanations in your native language.
Tuna Sushi – Credit: Michael Wu
Another charm of Toyosu Market is its fresh seafood and gourmet options. Among them, Sushi Dai is the most famous, known for its delicious tuna brushed with homemade soy sauce. It might be a bit pricey, but it’s so popular that people wait even before opening, and they often sell out by mid-morning. If you want to try it, arriving as soon as possible is highly recommended.
All the restaurants in Toyosu Market use fresh ingredients and are super delicious, so please try them when you visit! Lastly, while you can walk and eat at the outer Tsukiji Market, it’s not allowed at Toyosu Market. Purchasing seafood for takeout is also not available, so please keep that in mind and enjoy!
Toyosu Market Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZdMVveEpbArvYvc27
Official website: https://www.toyosu-market.or.jp/en/
Sushi Dai Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VES1tWBnJbEpDV4G9
Seafood lunch menu – Credit: Chisato
Are you ready to explore Japanese fresh seafood in Tokyo? If you’re a seafood lover, the historical and traditional Japanese fish market is a must-visit! The Senkyaku Banrai Facility would offer a unique experience, not only in seafood but also in hotels and hot springs. Despite the Toyosu area already having numerous shops and attractions, making it an excellent destination for both residents and tourists, they continue to pursue a better future as the sanctuary of flavors.
As markets may have days off, please check the official website before planning your visit. And for people coming to Japan from now on, make sure to check out the Senkyaku Banrai Facility!
Book a spot on our Classic Tsukiji Breakfast Tour to see the market and fresh seafood for yourself!
Book your pocket wifi now to stay connected through your entire Japan Journey!
