Tsukiji Market Early Morning Tour

Walk through “Japan’s Kitchen” — A place with 80 years of history.

Even after the wholesale market moved to Toyosu, the Tsukiji Outer Market remains a place where culinary professionals continue to gather. The history of this market began 400 years ago when 33 fishermen were invited by the Shogun to come from Osaka.

On this tour, we will visit hidden gem shops in back alleys known only to locals, as well as shrines that have watched over the market for generations. In the crisp morning air, avoid the crowds and touch the authentic food culture and history on this 1-hour tour.

Tsukiji Honganji Temple

Beautiful ancient Indian-style architecture with an exotic atmosphere. The tour starts here, at a temple that stands apart from traditional Japanese architecture. With a stone exterior hinting at the roots of Buddhism traveling via the Silk Road and a serene main hall, we will unravel its unique historical background before diving into the bustle of the market.

Photo by Kakidai / CC BY-SA 4.0

Tsukiji Uogashi & Tsukiji Outer Market

A food labyrinth with over 400 specialty shops. This is the “real deal” — a site where professional chefs come to source their ingredients. The scent of freshly shaved bonito flakes, the sound of expert knife sharpening, and energetic shouts fill the air. Walk through maze-like narrow alleys with your guide and discover the dedication of long-established shops often missed by regular sightseeing.

Experience the lively atmosphere with your eyes and ears. We will introduce you to famous shops that take pride in offering carefully selected items. While there are many unique products you can only taste or buy in Tsukiji, please note that there is no time allocated for shopping or eating during the tour itself. However, we will guide you on where to eat what you buy later, and how to store or use your purchases at home. (Note: Bringing a cooler bag is recommended.)

Namiyoke Shrine

The guardian deity that calms the rough waves and honors the life of food. This historic shrine is said to have calmed the difficult construction work when reclaiming this land from the sea. The precincts are lined with unique memorial mounds specific to Tsukiji, such as the “Egg Mound,” “Sushi Mound,” and “Shrimp Mound,” conveying gratitude and reverence for ingredients to this day.

Infomation

  • Meeting Point: 3-15-15 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
  • Group Size: 1 to 6 people
  • Start time: 6:45 AM – 7:45 AM (Only Thu & Sat)
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Private Tours: Available
  • Included in the Tour:
    • Guide (Select from Japanese, English, or French – please inquire in advance)
  • Not Included:
    • Time to purchase products during the tour
  • Cancellation Policy: The following cancellation fees will apply based on the timing of your cancellation
    • 10-8 days before tour starts 20%, 7-2 days before tour starts 30%, 24 hours before tour starts 40%, one day before tour starts 50%, late or after tour 100% 
    • If the tour is canceled due to bad weather conditions, notice will be sent by e-mail one day before tour date. Tour fee paid will be fully refunded.
    • A flight delay or cancellation certificate is required to request for rescheduling or refund.
  • Other Notes:
    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
    • Not recommended to guests who have heart disease or other serious medical conditions. 
    • This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a date change or a full refund.

Price

Tsukiji Market Early Morning Tour

5000 yen/person

Reservation