This 2-hour private/ semi-private walking session is for those who seek to satisfy their culinary curiosity and venture beyond the limit of standardized tours at the world famous Tsukiji Old Market. Enjoy reminiscences of the good old neighborhood people and shops, before the old charm converts into a planned new city development.
Join Motoko's morning shopping routine, our native Tokyoite founder -as she makes her weekly / twice-weekly visit to the market. Immerse yourself in local culture, walk through nooks and crannies to find where pros and locals frequent and learn the customs and etiquettes along the way.
This is not a commercialized tour. Motoko strongly believes that authentic connection between you and the community starts from treating you as a friend and letting you encounter "uncensored" authentic experiences, not catered to tourists. Mutual respect between you, us and the community is much appreciated.
Itinerary
| around 8:30am |
Meet at Tsukiji Higashi Honganji Temple, Tsukiji station (Hibiya-line) or Tsukiji-Shijo station (Oedo-line) or at another agreed location |
| sample itinerary |
Start the morning by paying a visit to Namiyoke Inari. This small shrine was stablished in the 1600's and continues to be frequented by the locals as the unofficial guardian shrine of the market. Post WWII, unique stone memorials carved with names of various seafood were dedicated by the market traders, for the repose of soul (of the ingredients) and to express their gratitude for nature's blessings.
Walk through the corridor filled with professional merchants in Tsukiji Uogashi buildings, alongside chefs and other locals. Follow Motoko as she shops at her regular vendors selling fresh fish, seafood, vegetables and meat.
Once
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| around 10:30am |
Finish the walk at Tsukiji Honganji Temple / restaurant / cafe |
Helpful tips in navigating Tsukiji
Enjoying Tsukiji
Know your preference! Shops you visit should be based on how you want to enjoy Tsukij, whether you are interested in shopping at no-frills pro vendors or service oriented shops catering to the needs of tourists.
When in the market, act like ... a respectful visitor.
When Tsukiji still functioned as a wholesale market, exuberant spirits of workers in speeding turrets governed the air, accompanied by their intense yelling (at whoever was on their way). Tsukiji has became hugely popular among domestic and foreign visitors, and majority of vendors are seen catering to tourists. Many shops and people we will visit still work on an old school fashion and demand respect as they continue to be a place of work, namely the Uogashi buildings where over 60 nakaoroshi vendors serve chefs and local shoppers from the vicinities. Videos and photography, especially of the workers - should be made after receiving their permission.
At Tsukiji, sustainability comes in small numbers...
We humbly ask you to respect our decision in keeping the group micro-sized (max 3 people) for sustainable tourism over potential profitability (We wish to contribute to, and not consume or cannibalize the local businesses and their way of life). A compact party enables us to visit tiny shops and family-owned small businesses in back alleys, rather than being trapped in overcrowded streets and shops catering to large groups presenting you "what tourists like".
Meals at Tsukiji
Small restaurants and stalls evolved to cater to market workers, and everyone occupying a seat is typically expected to make a full order for themselves. This applies to everyone, often including small children. If someone in your group is not hungry, or if you require more space, we can help you look for mid-to-large restaurants / cafes offering more flexibility.
Shopping at Tsukiji
While some shops in the outer market area accept credit cards, most pro-use shops and small restaurants accept cash only. Please be sure to bring some cash in Japanese yen. Unless you are a pro or a customer with knowledge (and intention to purchase), touching their products should be avoided.
Tsukiji with wheelchairs & strollers
The market has been around since the 1930's, so its narrow alleys and tiny shops do not come with modern-day accessibility in mind. Please note that a separate accommodation with a fully private booking must be made, as you will not be able to reach some of the locations typically visited during a regular session. As the streets are filled with large crowds, wearable baby carriers are strongly recommended over strollers for safety & convenience reasons.
