Fish markets in Tokyo and Kanagawa generally start bustling around 4:00 a.m.. However, whether visitors can enter or observe, and which areas or times are accessible, varies by market. Always check official information or contact the market office in advance.

The early morning hours are when the best fish are most likely to be available. Some shops finish selling by around 7 a.m., so it’s better not to rush through too many markets in one day if you want to truly take in the atmosphere of each. Many markets also have restaurants or diners serving freshly prepared seafood right on-site, which is another popular reason to visit. On the other hand, some people choose to visit later in the day to look for discounted fish — though this trend varies from market to market.

Keep in mind that these markets are primarily professional spaces where buyers select fish for business. Vendors may not always be friendly, and there may be occasions when they will not sell to you — if that might upset you, it’s best not to visit. Also, trying to visit too many markets in a single day can be impractical and even risky due to travel times. Additionally, some market restaurants close after lunch service, so plan accordingly.

Major Markets and Early Morning Overview

  • Toyosu Market: Famous for its tuna auctions and wholesale activity. Observation decks and visitor walkways have specific rules — confirm in advance.
  • Tsukiji Outer Market: Located near Toyosu. Easier for visitors to explore after the wholesale buying hours have passed. Store opening times vary — check ahead.
  • Ota Market: A general market dealing in flowers, produce, and seafood. The seafood section is active early in the morning. Check in advance for public access days.
  • Yokohama Central Wholesale: Early hours are focused on seafood wholesaling. Public open days and events are announced by the city — confirm before visiting.
  • Kawasaki North Wholesale: Wholesale activity begins early. Public access and event schedules vary — check beforehand.
  • Misaki Morning Market: A port town morning market famous for tuna and local fish. Best visited first thing in the morning as items sell out quickly. Confirm opening days and hours in advance.

Planning Your Route

While most markets start early, the distance between them, their open days, and visitor access rules differ. Choose your first destination of the day based on your priorities and build your itinerary from there.

Sample Tokyo Route

  1. Toyosu as your starting point
  2. Tsukiji for street food and shopping
  3. Ota for logistics tours (on public access days)

Sample Kanagawa Route

  1. Misaki Morning Market first
  2. Yokohama Central for open-day events and related facilities
  3. Kawasaki North for direct sales and meals

* Access conditions, open days, and visitor hours vary by market. Always confirm with the official website or market office before visiting.