【Reading】つきじ

【English Name】Tsukiji

That land was created by reclamation is the origin of the place name; located in Chuo Ward, Tokyo, Tsukiji is a place that represents Japan's fish-eating culture.

Its history began in the Edo period. In 1657, the Great Meireki Fire turned much of Edo into a burnt field, and the Nishi Honganji temple south of Asakusa Gate was also destroyed. To secure land for relocation, residents who gathered from Tsukudajima advanced reclamation work on the sea surface, creating new ground. After completion, Jodo Shinshu temples were built one after another, and it developed into a district lined with samurai residences as well.

The deep tie with sushi was carved in 1935. The fish market that had long continued at Nihonbashi moved its base to the central wholesale market (Tsukiji Market), built on repurposed former Navy land. Specialty shops for fresh fish and dried goods also lined the outer market (jogai), and for over 80 years thereafter it continued to operate as a major distribution hub where marine products from all over Japan gathered and dispersed.

As deterioration of the facilities and lack of capacity became apparent, the wholesale division transferred its functions to Toyosu Market in Koto Ward in October 2018. Meanwhile, business at the outer market continued without interruption, and the dissemination of food culture continues centered on the "Tsukiji Uogashi" newly established by Chuo Ward. With many visitors from overseas, it radiates a strong presence as a lively area packed with restaurants.