Real Toyosu Fish Market +Make Sushi +Macha Tea Experience

If you’re looking for a truly authentic taste of Japan’s seafood culture, this tour offers just that. Rather than sticking to the typical tourist overview, you’ll step onto the actual Toyosu Fish Market floor, getting a behind-the-scenes look at how Japan’s famous seafood industry operates. From selecting fresh fish to mastering sushi-making techniques and enjoying a tranquil tea ceremony—this experience blends food, culture, and history into one seamless adventure.

What makes this tour especially appealing are the chance to buy seafood directly from vendors, the personalized sushi-making session, and the opportunity to learn about Japanese knives and sake. Plus, the option to relax at a local onsen or wear a kimono adds an extra layer of local flavor. However, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite full, so it’s best suited for anyone eager to dive into Japan’s culinary traditions without feeling rushed.

One potential consideration? Since the tour involves a fair amount of walking and hands-on activities, it might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a very relaxed, sit-down experience. Still, for those who love food, culture, and authentic local interactions, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially perfect for curious foodies and culture seekers wanting a memorable, in-depth experience.

Good To Know

• Authentic Market Access: Walk directly on the Toyosu Fish Market floor, not just the viewing platform.
• Culinary Skills: Learn to make five types of authentic Japanese sushi, including gunkan, futomaki, and chirashi.
• Cultural Insight: Experience a serene Japanese tea ceremony with confectionery making, guided by professional tea masters.
• Local Flavor: Enjoy sake tasting and optional onsen bathhouse visit for a full Japanese culture.
• Value for Money: The price includes food shopping, sushi, sake, and tea experiences, offering great value given the quality.
• Flexible Options: Up to two additional activities (kimono wearing, night tour) can be selected, making each experience customizable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Meeting at Toyosu Fish Market

The tour begins at Shijo Mae station, a convenient spot on the Yurikamome line, with the guide waiting at the Senkyakubanrai east gate near a Lawson store. This central meeting point makes it easy to find your guide, who will be holding a VAS signage. From there, you’ll head straight into the actual fish market, not the sheltered observation decks that many travelers see. This direct access is a real highlight—it allows you to see the hustle and bustle of vendors, observe the wide variety of seafood available, and understand the scale and precision involved in Japan’s seafood industry.

Walking the Market Floor

Unlike the usual experience where visitors peek through windows, this tour offers an up-close walk on the market floor. You’ll experience the sights, sounds, and smells that make Toyosu a globally renowned seafood hub. As one reviewer noted, “The tour of the fish market in particular was spectacular,” highlighting how this direct engagement elevates the experience from touristy to truly immersive.

Buying Seafood and Foodstuffs

Once inside, you’ll select ingredients directly from the vendors. This hands-on approach offers a real taste of Japanese shopping culture—interacting with vendors, negotiating, and choosing the freshest fish and foodstuff. This part of the experience emphasizes value: you purchase the ingredients at their market prices, which are significantly lower than retail sushi stores, where markups can be five to ten times higher. One traveler fondly remembered buying engraved knives, which they treasure as a souvenir—an example of the lasting memories these authentic experiences create.

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Sushi Making at VAS Kitchen Studio

After shopping, you’ll transfer to the VAS kitchen studio—just a short trip away—to begin your sushi-making adventure. Here, you’ll learn to create five types of authentic Japanese sushi: gunkan, futomaki, tamari sushi, chirashi, and oshi sushi. What’s special is that these are not just typical fish sushi; they are traditional styles you might find across Japan but rarely in Western restaurants. The process involves hands-on instruction from professional chefs, ensuring you leave with not only a delicious self-made lunch but also new skills.

This part of the tour has been praised for educating participants about sushi techniques, with one reviewer mentioning, “We learned a lot about making sushi—figured out what we were doing wrong at home.” The value here is clear: for a fraction of what you’d pay at a sushi restaurant, you go home with a personal, freshly crafted meal and a deeper appreciation of Japanese culinary artistry.

Tea Ceremony and Confectionery Making

Next, the tour shifts to a peaceful Japanese tea ceremony. You’ll make and enjoy traditional confectionaries, guided by experienced tea ceremony professionals. This part of the experience offers a calming contrast to the energetic market and sushi activities, highlighting the Japanese emphasis on mindfulness and aesthetics. One traveler shared that the tea ceremony provided a serene touch, helping them connect more deeply with Japanese culture.

Sake Tasting and Optional Onsen

The experience continues with a sake tasting, where you’ll sample four different tastes—two included in the price, with options to try more. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the different types of sake and how they complement Japanese cuisine.

For those wanting even more, there’s the option to visit a local onsen hot spring bathhouse. While this isn’t included in the standard price and requires separate admission, it offers a relaxing way to unwind after your busy day of shopping and learning.

Additional Experiences

Depending on your schedule, you can opt to wear a traditional kimono or join a Tokyo night tour. These extras are designed to enhance your culture, though only two options can be selected due to time constraints.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: The tour includes a walk through the market, sushi making, tea ceremony, sake tasting, and optional activities—expect a full, engaging experience.
• Price: At $162 per person, the value is quite favorable considering all included activities—market shopping, sushi, sake, and tea.
• Group Size: The reviews mention private tours with small groups, which allow for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Language: The tour is offered in both English and Japanese, making it accessible to international visitors.
• Reservation: You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What’s Not Included

• Dinner and transportation costs are separate.
• Onsen or bathhouse fees aren’t included and will need to be paid at the time of visit.
• If you wish to take home leftovers or knives, containers or engraving services might cost extra.

Authenticity and Value

Many previous participants have highlighted the value in the hands-on experience—from selecting seafood to making sushi. One reviewer shared, “We bought some knives at the market, engraved with our last name, which we will treasure forever.” Not only do you get to eat the sushi you prepare, but you also gain cultural insights, culinary skills, and authentic souvenirs.

The professional guidance from sushi chefs and tea masters ensures you’re learning from experts, not just following online tutorials. Plus, the small-group nature creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere—perfect for asking questions and getting personalized tips.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventurous travelers seeking more than just a snapshot of Japan. If you enjoy hands-on activities, want to learn new skills, or simply crave a deep dive into Japanese seafood culture, this tour hits the right notes.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a slow, sit-down experience might find parts of it demanding. Also, those who prefer to keep their activities strictly limited to sightseeing or shopping might find the pace a bit intense.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an immersive, authentic look at Japan’s seafood trade and culinary traditions. From walking on the actual fish market floor to creating your own sushi and enjoying a calming tea ceremony, it’s packed with memorable moments. The inclusion of sake tasting and optional onsen access adds layers of cultural richness.

The value for the price is clear: you gain insider access, hands-on skills, delicious food, and cultural knowledge—all in one comprehensive package. It’s perfect for anyone eager to go beyond the typical tourist spots and connect with Japan’s culinary heart.

If you’re curious about Japanese food and want an experience that’s engaging, educational, and delicious, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I don’t have much cooking experience? Yes, the sushi-making class is designed for all skill levels, and instructors will guide you step-by-step, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or have some experience.

How long does the entire experience last? While the exact duration isn’t specified, the full itinerary—market walk, sushi making, tea ceremony, sake tasting, and optional activities—suggests a full, immersive day.

Can I buy seafood or souvenirs during the tour? Absolutely. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase foodstuff from the market vendors, and many travelers also buy engraved knives or other souvenirs.

Are dietary preferences accommodated? The tour focuses mainly on seafood and Japanese cuisine, so if you have specific dietary restrictions, it’s best to communicate with the tour provider in advance.

What should I wear? Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. If you opt for kimono dressing as an additional activity, you’ll be given instructions on how to wear it.

Is the onsen visit included? No, the bathhouse visit is optional and requires separate payment. It’s available as an add-on for those wishing to relax after their busy day.

This tour strikes a wonderful balance between cultural education and culinary adventure, offering genuine insights into Tokyo’s seafood industry and traditional Japanese practices. Whether you’re a foodie, culture lover, or curious traveler, it promises a memorable, hands-on journey into Japan’s vibrant food scene.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby