Tokyo Fish Markets

Japan is known for its love of seafood and a visit to one of Tokyo’s fish markets is a real experience.

The most famous market in town is Tsukiji Outer Market, which consists of block after block of wholesalers and retailers, as well as restaurants packed into narrow lanes. Get here early to enjoy a sushi breakfast at one of the restaurants, with fish straight from the stalls.

If you don’t want to go to the guidebook-friendly Tsukiji, try Ota instead. It’s even bigger than its more famous cousin, and is known for its huge flower section as well as fish. If you want to see the fish auctioned off you will have to get there by 5 a.m.

Adachi market is the second-largest, seafood-only market in Tokyo. In fact, seafood is the only thing you will find for sale here. Be aware, however, it only opens to the public on a few Saturdays every few months. Check the dates before you travel.

An easier place to visit is Ameyoko market, which sells loads of produce alongside its fish. It was made famous as a source of black market U.S. goods after World War II, and these days it’s also known for a proliferation of bars.