Tsukiji

Tsukiji is a town that was built by reclaiming the sea in the Edo period. It is popular among foreigners because it still retains the good old, unique Japan.

History of Tsukiji

The chronology begins in 1657, and even though it is still in the Edo period, you will be amazed at the high level of technology used to build a town on the sea. Located close to Edo Castle and lined with samurai residences, Tsukiji developed as a cultural castle town.

Surprisingly, Tsukiji had a foreign settlement. While Yokohama and Kobe were trading centers, Tsukiji attracted doctors and teachers. If you look for it, you will find many monuments to the birthplace of many Schools.

In the Meiji era (1868-1912), the modernization of the military began and Tsukiji became the birthplace of the Navy. The military ship training camp led by Kaishu Katsu (1862). And now, passing under the Kachidokibashi Bridge is the “Hotaruna” water bus designed by Leiji Matsumoto.

From the Showa period to the Heisei period, the role of Tsukiji became one of logistics. Until the opening of the Toyosu Market in 2018, Tsukiji was one of the largest fish markets in the world.

Highlights of Tsukiji

Tsukiji became “TSUKIJI” and became a food brand town. Although the main market itself has moved to Toyosu, the assortment of products for professionals remains as a value of Tsukiji. It is small, narrow, and has a nice scale that you can easily stroll around.

A good recommendation for dining is at Hongan-Temple. This clean and stylish cafe offers an 18-item breakfast and other sweets while you relax from your stroll.

Walking away from the hustle and bustle of the Tsukiji Market area and toward Akashicho, you will find a number of Showa-style food shops scattered about. For example, “Katsuhira” for pork cutlets, “Tenri” for tempura, and so on. The local purveyors are definitely good places to eat.

After filling up, go around to the back of St. Luke’s Garden and take a walk along the Sumida River. Cherry trees line the river in spring, cool breezes from the ocean in summer, and illumination in fall and winter. Tsukiji is the best place to enjoy the atmosphere of Edo (old Tokyo).