Toyosu Market relocated from Tsukiji on October 11, 2018, serving as the world's largest fish wholesale market. With daily transactions exceeding 2,000 tons and peak transaction values reaching 2 billion JPY (approximately 440 million TWD), it functions as the core hub for Asia's seafood trade. This new 40-hectare market carries on Tsukiji's legacy as the "nation's kitchen for fish dishes," while elevating transaction standards through modernized sanitation management and architectural design. It has become the top destination for foreign visitors seeking to experience Japan's seafood distribution system, with over 1.5 million foreign tourist visits recorded in 2025.
The tuna auction tour is the most popular attraction at Toyosu Market, starting promptly at 5:25 AM each business day and lasting approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. Only 120 spots are available daily for foreign visitors (free of charge), allocated through a pre-registration lottery system rather than walk-in entries. Foreign visitors must apply through the official website in advance, with success rates around 15% to 20%. It is recommended to register 2 to 3 weeks in advance. This strict lottery system exists because the tuna auction must maintain quiet and sanitation standards, limiting the number of participants. During the tour, flash photography is prohibited, visitors cannot enter the auction area, and must wear the white lab coats provided by the market. Violators may be barred from future applications.
The Toyosu Kaii Market (とよすかいしかんいち) is a commercial facility connected to the wholesale market, housing approximately 60 seafood restaurants, sushi shops, and souvenir stores. Seafood rice bowls cost approximately JPY 1,500 to 3,500, nigiri sushi sets range from about JPY 2,000 to 5,000, and grilled fish set meals start at around JPY 2,500. It is recommended to visit between 7 AM and 9 AM for the freshest catch, as some shops close early after 2 PM. The "Umimi Coffee" café on the 2nd floor of the Toyosu Wholesale Market building offers panoramic views of the auction floor, with coffee and light meals priced around JPY 500 to 800.
The choice between Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Outer Market depends on your travel goals. For a "tour experience," Toyosu Market is recommended, featuring modern auction facilities and a rooftop garden. For a "traditional atmosphere," Tsukiji Outer Market retains Showa-era street vibes and roadside food stall culture. In terms of cost, Toyosu Market's dining averages about 20% to 30% higher than Tsukiji, but offers more diverse and international options. Tsukiji excels in value for money and is closer to Tokyo Station (approximately 15 minutes by car).
Tsukiji Outer Market (つきじばかがいと) has continued operations since the 2018 relocation, centered around Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple within a 350-meter radius, with over 400 shops. Yakitori (grilled skewers) cost about JPY 200 to 650 per stick, uni rice bowls range from JPY 1,200 to 2,800, fresh oysters about JPY 800 to 1,500 for 3 pieces, and crab miso soup starts around JPY 1,500 to 2,200. Morning visitors can observe the still-operational Tsukiji Central Wholesale Market auction (approximately 4 AM to 6 AM), though internal access is restricted for foreign visitors. The popular "Daiwa Sushi" in the outer market offers a JPY 3,000 premium set, while "Sushi Dai" is famous for its JPY 2,500 lunch set, but expect queue times exceeding 30 minutes.
Toyosu Market's craftsman culture is showcased at the knife shop "Hamonoya Mochida," founded over 80 years ago, specializing in traditional Japanese chef's knives (hitogashi). Prices range from JPY 3,000 for beginner practice knives to over JPY 50,000 for handcrafted professional-grade blades. Another shop, "Ginsei Hamono," is known for custom knives and offers international shipping services, convenient for foreign visitors to have their purchases mailed directly home. Important notes for knife purchases: customs regulations vary by country—Taiwan visitors require separate import permits, while Hong Kong visitors can bring one knife duty-free. It is recommended to check your country's customs regulations before purchasing.
The most common search query, "How to apply for the Toyosu Market tuna auction," can be answered as follows: Apply through the official Toyosu Market website (https://www.shijou.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/tebay/) via pre-registration lottery. Application period is 30 to 7 days before the visit date, with results emailed 3 days prior. For "Toyosu seafood restaurant costs," the average spending is JPY 1,500 to 5,000. It is recommended to avoid the 12 PM to 1 PM lunch rush, and popular restaurants can be reserved online. The comparison "Tsukiji vs Toyosu Market" shows: Toyosu is better for tours and modern experiences, Tsukiji for traditional atmosphere and value. Both can be visited in one day, with transit taking approximately 30 minutes.
For deeper planning of your Tokyo seafood market之旅, refer to the extended reading—Tokyo Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Complete Guide, including transportation options, accommodation suggestions, and seasonal catch information. For popular seafood restaurant reservations, it is recommended to use Japanese review sites like "Tabelog" or "Ikyu.com" to book in advance. During peak seasons (April to June, November to December), be sure to reserve at least 1 week ahead.
