Best Markets in Tokyo ⋆ Lifeguin

Top three markets when you are in Tokyo

Tokyo offers an outstanding shopping experience for everyone. Whether you look for huge shopping centers or small shops doesn’t matter. In Tokyo, you will find it, and if it’s not in Tokyo, then it probably does not exist. We prefer to explore local markets where you can find good stuff and meet locals.

***Godzilla towering over the Toho Cinema in Shinjuk***u

Tokyo is home to a wide range of local markets, and here are the ones we recommend as we enjoyed them the most. Put some of those on your bucket list when visiting Tokyo.

If it’s not in Tokyo, then it probably does not exist!

#1 Tsukiji

Tsukiji is one of the most popular and famous markets in the city. It is known as one of the biggest fish markets in the world, with a history stretching back over 80 years.

Note that it consists of two parts – the inner market and the outer market. The inner one was in 2018 moved to a new location, but the outer market still remains in the same place and attracts millions of tourists each year.

You can find here over 460 shops and restaurants.

We recommend coming here for the food. This is the place to be if you are looking for fresh seafood or any food per se. To try the freshest one, come early in the morning. We also tried the famous wagyu meet here, and it was delicious.
Apart from food, it’s a great spot to buy souvenirs, including useful ones like kitchenware.

#2 Ameya Yokocho

It is a busy shopping street next to the JR Yamanote Rail Line, running between JR Ueno and Okachimachi station. Easily accessible when you exit Ueno Station.

What is interesting about this one is that it started as a black market for products imported from the U.S. and sold after WW II. Today it attracts many.

We have been here numerous times due to the proximity of our accommodation. You can find everything here, from food to electronics. It is also a hub to try diverse food cultures, like India, China, Thailand, and Turkey! Though we kept to Japan and can highly recommend the takoyaki. Delicious.

#3 Nakamise Dori

It is a very lively shopping street in the Asakusa area and one of Japan’s oldest shopping streets. You will likely come here for the Senso-ji Temple but stop at the stalls. You can find about 90 stalls selling various products perfect as souvenirs here. And we enjoyed as well the traditional Japanese snacks sold here. Keep in mind the opening hours, but usually, the shops open around 8-9 am. Also, some shops have irregular closing hours without any further notice.