We finally got to Tsukiji Fish Market!!! When we first arrived, you could go. Then, the banned all visitors because they got in the way of the bidding. Then, they had a program where you had to go through a travel agency tour. The current policy is first-come, first served at 5:30.
We got there a little after 5. We took a taxi to the market, but he dropped us off at the wrong place. So, we had to walk to where the 'tour' departs from, by this bridge.
Inside they put you in queues and give you a green vest to wear.
Then, in 3 groups they herd you through the market.
Tuna, tuna, tuna, and more tuna.
Just outside of each warehouse are guys ready to take the fish away on this little 3-wheeled carts. They go whizzing by. You have to be very careful not to be run over!
They took us to a warehouse where there was a small viewing area of one of the auctions.
The fish have a small part open that the buyers can hack into and see the grade of meat. After sale, they use a red paint to indicate who bought what.
No flash, and you have a limited amount of time. I can only assume from this, that the other groups went to the other warehouses.
There are several auctioneers, and they go from one area of fish to another, ring a bell and start their auction.
There were places to cut the fish by saw.
It was daylight when we left, and many were loading their trucks to head off into the city.
The recycle pile of styrofoam.
This is a map of the market. Double-click to make it larger.
We didn't go into the shrine there, but the deity enshrined here protects people from the waves.
The outer market is where you can buy fish products.
And take silly photos.
Early morning, and stalls are open. I bought several items.
Tim and I couldn't find it in ourselves to eat sushi or onigiri so early, so we headed home and ate a normal breakfast.
I enjoyed the market, and it is fun to watch everything going on!
Update: Video...
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