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Tsukiji once had one of the largest fish markets in the world. That came to an end in 2018 when it moved to Toyosu. However, the outer market remains a popular destination for locals and tourists. It is still going strong. And street photographers love it.
Many people associate Tsukiji with fish. But there is so much more. It has everything associated with food. Need knives? No problem. Need some wasabi? They have that.
Anyway, here are a few reasons why it is an awesome place for street photography:
Vibrant Atmosphere: Tsukiji Outer Market is bustling and energetic. Daily life there is about the hustle and bustle of fishmongers, shoppers, and vendors. This dynamic atmosphere provides many opportunities to capture candid moments and unique interactions.
Colorful Displays: The market has so many colors. The seafood, fresh produce, and culinary delights are eye-catching. They can be a delight to photograph.
Authentic Japanese Culture: You can see this at Tsukiji Outer Market. You can witness sushi making and stalls serving street food. It is perfect for capturing images that reflect the essence of Japanese life.
Varied Subjects: Tsukiji Outer Market has a wide range of photographic subjects. There are the fishmongers. Local shoppers inspect and buy seafood. Restaurants and food stalls offer various delicacies. The number of things to photograph is incredible.
Alleys: Duck into some of these. You never know how many photos wait down them. Maybe even some world-class sushi too!
Details and Textures: There are so many at the market. They will add depth and interest to your street photographs. There are intricate fish scales and rough surfaces of wooden stalls. You can capture many visual elements in your images. Just be careful of the no photography signs in some shops!
Highlights of Tsukiji Outer Market
- Tsukiji Honganji – this is a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple, over the road. Chuta Ito was the architect. He is the guy who also designed Meiji Shrine. The building is concrete and has many Indian influences.
- Namiyoke Inari Shrine – You can find it behind the market near the river. The name means “avoid waves.” Fishermen used to pray there before setting out in their boats.
- Tsukiji Itadori Bekkan – if you want some great sushi. Check out this place. It is amazing. You can find it down a side alley.
- Kitsuneya – Horumon-don (offal on rice) is the dish to eat at this restaurant. This place is tiny with only a few seats, but the line of people outside is so long! Street food at its best!
Is Tsukiji Outer Market still worth seeing in 2023?
You’d think that with the Toyosu fish market opening in 2018, Tsukiji mightn’t be worth visiting. Nothing could be further from the truth. It still has much to offer photographers. And the best way to judge is by the crowds! People go there in droves.
Where is Tsukiji Outer Market?
It’s in Chuo City next to the Sumida River and Kachidoki Bridge. You could even walk there from Ginza.
Closest subway stations:
- Tsukiji – Hibiya Line
- Tsukijishijo – Oedo Line
Click here to see it on Google Maps.
Opening hours
Generally speaking, from 5 am to 2 pm. But hours vary from shop to shop.
Closed
Sundays and national holidays
