3 Tsukiji Relocation Must Knows (and 4 How-tos for Visiting the New Tsukiji Uogashi)

As most foodies (people interested in Tokyo news) know, the world’s largest fish market Tsukiji Market (inner market) is in the midst of a relocation. The Tsukiji Outer Market shall remain, with a new seafood based shopping centre constructed: Tsukiji Uogashi! Unfortunately (or fortunately for foodies?), environmental concerns have delayed Tsukiji’s relocation. So, how is the relocation going? What is the Tsukiji Uogashi? Tokyo.com brings you these answers, and more!

1. The Tsukiji Relocation

Relocating the 81-year-old Tsukiji Fish Market is one of Tokyo’s moves in preparation for the Olympic Games in 2020 (you can see the government’s other steps here). The move was supposed to happen in November 2016, moving from Chuo Ward to Koto Ward. However, environmental and budget concerns have delayed the move to what will become the Toyosu Fish Market by a year to late 2017. While this is good news for foodies who get to enjoy Tsukiji, shop owners are less than happy. Not only have they removed some of their fish processing machines, they are incurring additional costs. So travellers, remember to show your support to the owners with your patronage during these difficult times!

2. Tsukiji Uogashi (the new market)

When the famous Tsukiji market’s relocation was announced, many foodies were saddened. But there is always a silver lining! New food shopping facility Tsukiji Uogashi has officially opened on Nov. 19th, 2016! Many of the shops from the old Tsukiji market has agreed to stay in the district, opening new stores for their loyal customers. Don’t forget to check out the fresh sushi there before everyone finds out about it!

3. Traversing Tsukiji Uogashi: a How-to Guide

Being a new market next to the 80-year-old giant, Tsukiji Uogashi cannot compare to Tsukiji Fish Market yet. However, here at Tokyo.com, we already see great things in store. While Tsukiji Fish Market sells itself on tradition, Tsukiji Uogashi is far more tourist oriented. Gone is the hectic nature of the fish market, and, instead Tsukiji Uogashi provides what is almost like a supermarket experience. But when you are travelling there, keep the following in mind:

• A. Like with Tsukiji Fish Market, come early! Later than 12pm? The popular foods might already be sold out!
• B. Since the best time for visiting the Tsukiji Fish Market is before 10am, drop by after seeing the old market!
• C. Get a bird’s eye view of the old market from here!
• D. While it is worth a visit, do spend time at the old market. It isn’t going to be there much longer.

Opening hours: Market (1/F): 9:00am to 2:00pm; Foodcourt (3/F): 7:00am to 2:00pm (Closed Sunday and national holidays, as well as certain Wednesdays per month (varies))
Address: 6-26-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Tel: N/A at the moment
Website: http://www.tsukiji.or.jp/english/index.html