Tsukiji Fish Market
My recent trip to Japan has proven to work as a motivation to get me going. Since this was my first trip to Tokyo, I was highly encouraged to explore the busy fish market where all the people are up and going at 3am in the morning. And the best part? Tuna (Meguro) auction!
The Tsukiji Fish Market consists of a large area divided into the inner market and the outer market. The auction of course, begins in the inner market. As of 10 May 2010, the auction area is opened to the public once again. It was closed for a period of time as human traffic was said to disrupt the daily processes of the retailers. Now, the public is only allowed to view the auction from a designated viewing area.
“The number of visitors to the tuna auction is limited to 140 per day, the maximum number which the market’s infrastructure can accommodate. Tourists, who wish to see the auction, have to apply at the Osakana Fukyu Center (Fish Information Center) at the Kachidoki Gate, starting from 4:30am on a first-come, first-serve basis. A first group of 70 visitors will be admitted to the auction between 5:00 and 5:40, while a second group of 70 visitors will be admitted between 5:40 and 6:15.
Expect that the maximum number of visitors is likely to be exceeded on busy days, and that some later arriving visitors may not be able to see the auction. Successful applicants will be able to view the auction from a designated visitor area. It is not allowed to view the auction from anywhere else or to use flash photography or to interfere with the business action in any other way.”
The outer market only opens its doors to the public from 9am. This consists of the other products on sale and restaurants where you are able to taste one of the freshest sashimi in Japan.
One thing to note: Drag/haul/force yourself out of bed as early as 3am! If you are going to catch the train, the earliest is 4.40am. So you might want to consider a taxi if you do not wish to be disappointed. The tickets go out very fast!
The experience as they say: is unimaginable and beautiful.
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