Location
Tsukiji Fish Market is perhaps the most famous, largest and busiest fish market in the world. This is the place where the world records for most expensive fish in the world are often made. The tuna auctions take place at 5am but it is the fishing seasons first auction and first fish which often results in unbelievable prices. For example in 2013, the first tuna was sold for 1,8 million dollars. The auctions are held every day and if you are suffering from jet lag, it should be no problem going to the early morning tuna auctions at 5am. There is a maximum limit of 120 visitors and viewing tickets are issued on a first come, first serve basis beginning at 4:30 AM at the market's Fish Information Center, next to the Kachidoki entrance. While in Tsukiji we recommend to also have a sushi breakfast. There are plenty of sushi counters here, but to find best ones, you need to wend your way to the restaurant area near the wholesale fruit and vegetable market, just inside the main gate off Shin-ohashi Street. The fish does not get much fresher than what it is here.
Opening hours: Outer Market 5 AM-1 PM, Wholesale Market 9 AM-1 PM, Tuna Auction 5 AM-6:15 AM; closed Sundays, holidays, and the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. It is important to get to Tsukiji as early as possible', especially on busy days, so as not to get shut out. Note that access to the Tuna Auction area may still be off-limits on some dates, especially during busy times of the year.
In the restaurant area, expect to pay between 300 and 800 yen per generously cut, amazingly fresh piece. Order the chu toro (fatty tuna).