Tsukiji Outer Market

Located in central Tokyo, Tsukiji Market is a large wholesale market for fish, fruits and vegetables . It is known as one of the world's largest fish markets and also famous for its tuna auction.

Tsukiji Market consists two areas - an inner market where most of the wholesale business and the famous tuna auctions are being held, and an outer market where one can find retail shops and restaurants. The inner market is a bit restricted as public may interfere with the businesses being conducted. There are set rules of follow should visitors visit the auction area. Only 120 people are allowed to enter the area in 2 batches. One must wake up early to line up and if successfully included in the list he can view the auction.

Should one is unable to go to the inner market, the outer market is worth visiting. It is just adjacent to the inner market and you can see the busy turret trucks transporting goods in and out of the market. Walk carefully and be mindful of the rush.

Different stuff, goods and seafood eateries can be found at the Outer market.  All sorts of food related goods, knives and fresh seafood and produce are for retail sale.



fresh vegetables

One should not miss sampling fresh sushi or sashimi breakfast or lunch at one of the local restaurants. There are restaurants both in the inner and outer market area, which are  open from 5:00 in the morning to around noon or early afternoon. Please get there early to sample the freshest seafood and avoid long queue.

Prices range from Yen 1,300 to 3,000.

Tsukiji Market can be reached via Toei Oedo subway line Tsukijishijo station.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Meiji Jingu Shrine is a Shinto shrine which can be reached via JR  Harajuku Station.

To reach the main shrine complex one has to take a long walk passing by a huge torii.

 There are lots of tall trees on both sides and it feels you're like inside a forest. There is also an inner garden , a treasure museum and café .

The brochure mentioned that the shrine is dedicated to the divine souls of Emperor Meiji and his consort Empress Shoken. After their demise, people wanted to commemorate their virtues and donated 100,000 trees from all over Japan to create this forest like atmosphere of the shrine.

There are display of barrels of sake wrapped in straw .

One can be lucky to witness a traditional wedding march during a visit.

There is a tree surrounded by wooden votives where you can buy one at Y500 and write your wishes.



main  building of the shrine

The place is so relaxing and calming. Autumn leaves are nice to see especially in November. Entrance is free.

 

After visiting the shrine, one can pass by Harajuku which is popular for shopping and dining amongst the Japanese youth.