Inside Tokyo’s Kitchen: Tsukiji Market, Food & Culture Tour

Tokyo , Japan

Inside Tokyo’s Kitchen: Tsukiji Market, Food & Culture Tour

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(158 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Stroll through Tokyo’s kitchen and delight in the tastes, smells, and sights of the world’s most famous fish market. Discover new flavor sensations and find out more about the people that work here. Learn about the fascinating history of Sushi as well as about the unique connection between the Fish Market, Buddhist belief and Shinto spirit. This experience is about more than tasting—it’s about truly understanding the culture and stories that make Tokyo’s cuisine so special.

Available options

Small Group Tour

What's included

Enjoy a guided stroll through the lively outer market with a friendly local guide

Explore the iconic Tsukiji Outer Market — a must on any Tokyo bucket list

Savor freshly made sushi, local snacks, and charming wagashi sweets

Visit the beautifully unique Namiyoke Inari Shrine

Get insider tips on Tokyo’s best eats, sights, and hidden gems from your expert guide

Detailed itinerary

The tour begins at the Kabuki Theatre, meeting in front of the shrine at Kabukiza. You’ll discover Kabuki, Japan’s unique blend of drama and dance, and admire the stunning Kabuki-za architecture.

We’ll walk through the market’s narrow alleys, exploring seafood, vegetables, and snacks, while learning about Japan’s food culture. You’ll also taste fresh sushi, Japanese snacks, and Kawaii Wagashi sweets.

The tour ends at Tsukiji Fish Market, accessible from Tsukiji Station. We’ll visit Namiyoke Inari Shrine, where you can enjoy its tranquil atmosphere and rich history, before a 10-minute walk to the nearest station.

What's not included

Drinks and additional food

Tips/gratuities for your guide

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

12 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

146 reviews

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139

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Vegetarian and vegan options are available on this tour, though the food selection is limited.

This is a child-friendly tour. Children under 6 can join for free.

Please wear closed-toe shoes, as the inner market floors can be wet. Sneakers are recommended.

Meeting point

Higashi-ginza Station, Exit 3, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, and Toei Asakusa Line, at top of the escalator on street level, in front of the Kabukiza Theatre on the side of Harumi Street, by the little shrine (Torii gate)

Important notes

Check-in Time
You must arrive at least 10 minutes prior to tour meeting time. The tour will begin on time and your check-in time is important. Out of respect for the other passengers we won't be able to accommodate late arrivals. Due to heavy traffic in Tokyo, please plan your journey in advance, ensuring you arrive at least 10 minutes before the start time of your tour.

Child Policy
Please let us know if you’ll be bringing a child under the age of 6. You can do so by sending us an email to tokyo@urbanadventures.com

Additional Information
We reserve the right to change both the route and places visited within the tour. Food inclusions are subject to change, dependent on availability on the day.

Dietary Notes
Vegetarian, and vegan options are available on this tour, but the food selection is limited.

Local Office Phone Number:
If you have any issues on the day of your tour, please call +81 50 5809 5239. This local number doesn't accept messages, so should you require assistance, please call or send a message to tokyo@urbanadventures.com

Dress Standards
A moderate amount of walking is involved. Please wear closed-toe shoes, due to wet floors in the inner market. We recommend sneakers.

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About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)

Odaiba

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Vegan and vegetarian options available.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Parasailing at Odaiba Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional tea ceremonies Kimono rentals and photo shoots Boat tours on the Sumida River Beach activities at Odaiba

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kamakura

50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Hakone

90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.

Festivals

Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years) Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years) Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July

Pro tips

Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.