Tsukiji Fish Market: A Melting Pot Of Flavors, History, And Culture
You know what it’s like when your favourite store, the one you walk or maybe ride your bike to, uproots and moves to a bigger, shinier premises. Farther away. Darn it. The Tsukiji Fish Market, widely known as the best fish market in the world (ask any chef!) officially opened in its old location in 1935, but some form of fish market had been there since the 1600s. And it has moved. As of October 2018, it’s changed locations.
The excuse? The old buildings that housed the inner and outer markets (inner was wholesale, outer for the general public) were no longer structurally sound. Still, it’s a piece of history and the neighbours all felt it should be restored, not relocated. The controversy continues. And part of that is because many locals believe the move had nothing to do with old buildings, but being an ideal site for the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics.
Old site, new site, at least it’s open for business and situated appropriately on a wharf in eastern Tokyo. The Tsukiji Fish Market is known for its amazing variety of fresh fish and seafood, as well as great prices. But if you visit, take a tip from the chefs: get there early!