Toyosu Market Tuna Auction - Tokyo, Japan
The tuna auction at Toyosu Market is one of Tokyo’s most famous attractions, especially renowned for its prized bluefin tuna. I had long wanted to witness this auction in person, so I carefully planned ahead. Because the tour is extremely popular, visitors need to apply for a spot through the market’s lottery system. I checked the official Toyosu Market website and learned that applications must be submitted a month in advance. I set a reminder to apply as soon as the window opened, and thankfully, I won a spot for my preferred date.
The email confirmation provided all the details I needed: the exact time, meeting location, and items to bring. The gathering time was 5:45 AM, and public transportation in Tokyo is very limited around 4 AM, so I arranged a taxi the night before to pick me up directly from my hotel. On the morning of, the taxi arrived promptly, and the driver dropped me off near the entrance to the gathering area. I arrived early—around 5:15 AM—and checked in. My ID and confirmation email were verified, and I was assigned a number that corresponded to my spot in line. While waiting, I explored the informational displays nearby. One display explained the proper way to eat grilled fish with chopsticks—a surprisingly detailed and standardized method, which reminded me of lessons my Japanese teacher had shared back in Canada.
Once the tour began, we lined up in our assigned spots and were led by the guide through a long corridor to the building where the tuna auction takes place. Along the way, I noticed several impressive displays, including a life-size model of the largest tuna ever caught—a truly striking sight. When we reached the viewing room, we had a clear view of the auction floor below.
The auction itself was fascinating. Tuna were lined up carefully on the floor, and buyers walked row by row, inspecting each fish, taking notes, and occasionally examining the gills for quality. When the bidding began, the buyers used hand gestures to indicate prices, and it happened incredibly fast. Even with a display explaining the gestures, it was difficult to keep up with the rapid pace. After the auction ended, I watched as the haul was swiftly moved away and the area cleaned, showcasing the efficiency and precision of the operation.
After leaving the viewing area, I returned to the displays I had seen earlier and then explored the adjacent fish market and restaurants. Many vendors were just opening for the day, preparing the seafood they had purchased. I treated myself to a bowl of fresh seafood over rice, and it was incredibly satisfying—the fish was delicate, sweet, and perfectly complemented by soy sauce. I spent some more time wandering the market before returning to my hotel to rest and prepare for the rest of my day exploring Tokyo.
History & Background
Toyosu Market (豊洲市場) opened in 2018, replacing the historic Tsukiji Market, which had served as Tokyo’s central wholesale fish market for over 80 years. Tsukiji was world-famous for its bustling tuna auctions and vibrant trading culture, but aging facilities and safety concerns prompted the move to a modern, purpose-built site in Toyosu. Today, Toyosu Market is the largest seafood market in Japan, maintaining Tsukiji’s legacy while offering upgraded facilities. It is divided into wholesale areas for fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables, and includes a public viewing area where tourists can safely observe the famous tuna auctions—an enduring symbol of Japan’s meticulous seafood trade and culinary culture.
Getting There
Toyosu Market is easily accessible from central Tokyo by public transportation. The nearest station is Shijo-mae Station on the Yurikamome Line, just a short walk from the market entrance. However, since the tuna auction starts very early in the morning, I found it more convenient to take a taxi from my hotel. Taxis ensure a timely arrival without the stress of limited early-morning train or subway schedules, especially if you need to be at the market by 5:45 AM.
Route Overview
Duration: 3 hr (tour time + time after to check out the information display, fish market, and breakfast)
Booking Info: You must apply for the tuna auction visit lottery to secure your spot. You need to apply within the first week of the month before your intended visit (e.g., visiting in Dec, apply first week of Nov). Visit the official site for more info and how to apply for a spot. Note that you cannot change your date once you’ve won the spot.
Cost Breakdown
Taxi: Hotel → Toyosu Market — ¥3,700
Food: ¥3,000
