Cutting the tuna at Adachi Market (Photo: SAGA Gem / CC BY 2.0)
Cutting the tuna at Adachi Market (Photo: SAGA Gem / CC BY 2.0)
- 2 min read

Adachi Market

Tokyo's other fish market

Everybody has heard of Tsukiji and the world famous fish market that used to be located there. Having moved to Toyosu, the fish market is still the world's largest and commands a respectable amount of attention. It remains a definite destination for visitors.

However, unknown to most of the tourist world, quietly plugging away in Adachi City's southern pocket of Kita-Senju, lies Adachi Market. Operating since 1945, this wholesalers market featuring wholesale, retail and restaurant areas, is a commitment to a gritty normality. It is completely and utterly devoid of any sense of tourism. And being one of the major wholesale markets in Tokyo, the opportunity to visit and see a mini version of the old Tsukiji is simply one too good to pass up.

Adachi Market
Adachi Market (Photo: mxmstryo / CC BY 2.0)

Most visitors who aren't here for shopping will head towards Uogashi Shokudo, the area of the market dedicated to eating. Having the chance to first explore the market and see the ingredients fresh before you eat them is the thing to do. As for the prices, well, suffice as to say you won't be paying tourist yen here that's for sure.

Some of the seafood on offer at Adachi Market
Some of the seafood on offer at Adachi Market (Photo: SAGA Gem / CC BY 2.0)

Time your visit right and you'll also get to sample the wholesaler's area. Usually off limits to the average person, Adachi Markets have a custom where the second Saturday of every odd-numbered month is considered 'market day.' This means that anybody, not just wholesalers, can stop by the wholesaler's section to shop there. If your Japanese is up to par or you have access to someone whose is, you can chat with the staff and pick up little tips on food preparation and seafood selection.

Fresh sashimi from the market
Fresh sashimi from the market (Photo: SAGA Gem / CC BY 2.0)

A throwback to a time of intimate trading, Adachi Markets may not rival the size of its more famous cousin but it certainly makes up for it with local authenticity.

Getting there

A 5-minute walk from Senjuohashi Station on the Keisei Main Line. Otherwise, take the Tobu Skytree, Tsukuba Express, Chiyoda, Hibiya or JR Joban Lines to Kita-Senju Station for a 15-minute scenic route through the shotengai shopping streets.

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Elizabeth S 4 years ago
What a great find! It's these local markets that are great experiences and sources of fresh ingredients visitors and residents shouldn't miss.

Another one just outside Tokyo is Matsudo Nanbu Ichiba - https://en.japantravel.com/chiba/matsudo-nanbu-ichiba/44492

Are there more?!
Kim 4 years ago
You had me at "not paying tourist yen" - my wallet is happy at the sound of that!
Sleiman Azizi Author 4 years ago
Elena Lisina 4 years ago
I love fish but had no chance to visit any fish markets, alas! Hopefully next time ;)
Sleiman Azizi Author 4 years ago
We'll be back there!

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