Tokyo: Toyosu Market Tour with Tuna Cutting and Sushi Making

Introduction

Getting a behind-the-scenes look at Tokyo’s famous fish markets is a must for anyone interested in Japanese cuisine and culture. This tour at Toyosu Market offers a rare opportunity to witness the intricate process of tuna cutting, a skill that even many sushi chefs are not allowed to do themselves. Plus, you’ll get to work with a sushi chef to create your own sushi, blending learning and tasting in one exciting day.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the visit to Toyosu Market—which is generally off-limits to travelers—means you’re getting an authentic peek into the world’s largest fish market. Second, the tuna cutting demonstration is both visually fascinating and educational, revealing the craft behind a staple ingredient. Lastly, the sushi-making session with a professional chef allows for a tangible, tasty souvenir of your trip.

However, a potential consideration is the tour’s duration and pace, which may be a bit tight if you’re not accustomed to early mornings or large-group guided sightseeing. Also, travel costs and personal expenses are not included, so budget accordingly. This tour suits food lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager for an immersive and practical experience of Japan’s seafood culture.

Good To Know

• Authentic Access: Visit Toyosu Market, which is typically off-limits to travelers, giving you a glimpse into Japan’s bustling seafood industry.
• Unique Skill: See the rare process of cutting a giant tuna into portions, a task usually reserved for seasoned professionals.
• Hands-On Experience: Make your own sushi with a professional chef, learning techniques and flavors firsthand.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about where the tuna you enjoy at restaurants originates and how it’s prepared.
• Sightseeing Bonus: Explore the lively Tsukiji Outer Market for shopping and local food stalls.
• Value and Authenticity: This experience combines education, tasting, and culture for a well-rounded adventure.

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Exploring Tokyo’s Fish Market Scene

The tour kicks off with a meet-up at the front of SHIJOMAE Station, where your English-speaking guide greets you, ready to unveil the secrets of Tokyo’s seafood world. The highlight? Visiting Toyosu Market, the largest fish market globally, where over 500 fish buyers work amidst a maze of stalls and aquariums.

Most travelers only know of Tsukiji, the historic market that was relocated to Toyosu in 2018 to accommodate larger auction tanks and modern facilities. While Toyosu’s interior is restricted, the tour’s guide allows you to observe the outside areas and learn about the market’s history and operations.

High praise from previous guests emphasizes the informative nature of the visit: “Our guide was very knowledgeable and explained everything clearly, making the market’s hustle understandable.” Photography inside the market is prohibited to respect the vendors’ privacy, but outside shots and videos of the surroundings are encouraged.

Why is Toyosu Market special?

Toyosu is more than just a seafood hub—it’s a symbol of Japan’s seafood industry modernization. Seeing such a large-scale operation in action offers a perspective many travelers don’t get from just visiting restaurants or seafood shops. The fact that it’s off-limits to the general public makes this tour particularly valuable, providing exclusive access to learn about the market’s inner workings.

The Tuna Cutting Demonstration

After the market visit, the tour moves on to Tsukiji Outer Market, a lively area filled with shops selling seafood, produce, and traditional Japanese snacks. Here, you’ll enjoy some free time for shopping, tasting street food, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

The true highlight, however, is the tuna cutting demonstration. This process involves expertly slicing a massive, freshly caught tuna into precise, bite-sized chunks. A professional tuna cutter will show you how they work, explaining the importance of technique and speed. As one reviewer noted, this is “a very special job that even young sushi chefs are not allowed to do,” making it a rare opportunity to watch a true artisan.

Guests often mention the visual impressiveness of the process. One traveler remarked, “Seeing the way they quickly and efficiently cut the tuna was mind-blowing. It was like watching a performance.” You’re likely to be surprised at the skill and precision involved—something you wouldn’t typically see outside of Japan’s top sushi restaurants.

Why does this matter?

Understanding how tuna is prepared helps you appreciate the craftsmanship behind what you eat at sushi bars and restaurants. It also offers insight into the freshness and quality of the fish, which directly impacts taste.

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Sushi Making with a Professional Chef

The hands-on portion of the tour is where you get to roll up your sleeves and craft your own sushi. Working alongside a sushi chef, you’ll select tuna pieces and learn the correct techniques for making nigiri, maki rolls, or sashimi. This practical experience demystifies sushi preparation, often considered an art form in Japan.

Many past participants have expressed how rewarding it was to create their own sushi and then eat it fresh. One shared, “I never thought I could make sushi myself, and the chef was so patient explaining each step.” It’s an excellent chance for beginners and seasoned foodies alike to sharpen their skills and enjoy the flavors they’ve learned about.

At the conclusion, you’ll sample the tuna you cut yourself in various forms—sashimi, nigiri, and perhaps even a maki roll—making the entire experience both educational and delicious.

The value in learning

This part of the tour offers a tangible skill that you can try again at home, plus a deeper understanding of Japanese culinary techniques. It’s a memorable way to connect with Japan’s food culture beyond just tasting.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour costs $303 per person, which covers an English-speaking guide, the sushi and tuna lunch, and the lecture from the sushi chef. While it’s a fair price for a comprehensive and exclusive experience, travelers should budget for additional expenses like transportation and personal shopping.

The entire experience lasts approximately [insert typical duration if known], with most of the time spent on market visits, demonstrations, and sushi-making. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering an intimate atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes since the tour involves a fair amount of standing and walking around busy market streets. Since photography inside the market is prohibited, you’ll want to focus on capturing the lively ambiance outside.

The tour is not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, due to the nature of the market and the activities involved. Cancellation is flexible, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Final Reflections on the Experience

This tour offers a detailed, authentic look into Tokyo’s seafood scene, perfect for those who enjoy food, culture, and hands-on activities. The combination of market visits, tuna cutting, and sushi making creates a well-rounded experience that caters to curiosity and culinary interest alike.

You’ll leave with a better understanding of what goes into your favorite sushi and how seafood is sourced and prepared in Japan’s most iconic markets. It’s also an opportunity to see a side of Tokyo that many visitors miss—an insider’s glimpse into a live, working fish market.

For travelers seeking more than just sightseeing, this experience delivers immersion, education, and delicious rewards. Whether you’re a foodie, a sushi lover, or simply a curious traveler, this tour offers both value and a chance to create lasting memories.

To sum it up, if you’re after an insightful, engaging, and delicious adventure that strikes a balance between learning and tasting, this Toyosu Market tour is a fantastic pick. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that reveal Japan’s true culinary spirit.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Transportation fees are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel to and from the meeting point at SHIJOMAE Station.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended because the tour involves a fair amount of walking around the market and outdoor areas.

Can I take photos inside Toyosu Market?
No, photography inside the market is prohibited to respect vendor privacy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6, and the activities may be too intense or restrictive for young kids.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should inform about?
Yes, if you have allergies or specific dietary restrictions, you should notify the tour provider in advance.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified here, expect a full, engaging experience that includes market visits, demonstrations, and sushi making.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the tour is led by an English-speaking guide, making explanations and instructions clear for international visitors.

This comprehensive review underscores that the Toyosu Market tour with tuna cutting and sushi making is a unique, immersive experience that combines education, culture, and taste. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the real Tokyo seafood scene and come away with new skills and delicious memories.

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