Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market Fades into History, Re‑awakening at Toyosu
Picture this: it’s 2 am, the streets are still hushed, and a small line of eager tourists has already started stretching out, all waiting to catch a glimpse of the legendary tuna auction. Sounds like a midnight blockbuster, right? Well, that scene is about to get a new backdrop.
Goodbye Tsukiji, Hello Toyosu
- Tsukiji, the original fish bazaar that opened in 1935, will officially close its doors to visitors on September 15 for the auction, and September 29 for the wholesale display of marine goods and veggies.
- From October 6, the site will be fully shut down and transformed into a new fish market called Toyosu, which once housed a gas plant.
- In Toyosu, visitors will have their own deck and a dedicated glass‑wall viewing aisle, so you can watch the tuna dance through a crystal barrier.
It’s Still a Seafood Dream
The Tsukiji market has long been the beating heart of Japan’s fish culture, handling 480 kinds of seafood worth roughly $14 million (≈ S$19 million) each day. It also offers 270 varieties of fruits and vegetables—all polished and patted to perfection for sushi chefs, export companies, and everyday shoppers.
Why The Move?
While the vibe is old‑school in the best way, the aging infrastructure is raising eyebrows. Concerns about earthquake safety, sanitation, and fire hazards have spurred the decision to relocate.
The original plan to move Tsukiji to Toyosu kicked off in 2016, but a discovery of soil contamination delayed the transfer. After two years of buildup, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government finally green‑lit the shift.
Olympic Flare & Future Plans
During the 2020 Olympics, Tsukiji was slated to become a transport hub. But the long‑term destiny of this former fish haven remains uncertain—all the more reason to cherish those early‑morning tuna shows.
So next time you find yourself caught in the dawn haze of Tokyo’s waterfront, you’ll know: the scent of tuna is moving, and maybe the rhythm of the market will stay and play on in a new beat on Toyosu.
