Unveiling the Mysteries of Toyosu Sushi: A Guide to Tokyo's Famous Fish Market

Sushi has become a global sensation, with countless variations and adaptations around the world. From the classic California roll to the more daring sashimi bowls, there is no shortage of options for sushi lovers. But have you ever heard of Toyosu sushi? This unique style of sushi is taking the culinary world by storm, offering a fresh and flavorful twist on traditional sushi. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what exactly Toyosu sushi is and what makes it stand out from the crowd. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover the delicious secrets behind this popular Japanese delicacy.

Toyo Sushi: A Guide to Tokyo’s Iconic Fish Market

Toyo Sushi is a widely known fish market located in Tokyo, Japan. With its prime location near the waterfront of Tokyo Bay, it has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience authentic Japanese seafood. This iconic market has a rich history dating back to its original establishment in 1923, and since then has been providing top-quality seafood to customers around the world.

History of Toyo Sushi

The original location of Toyo Sushi was in Tsukiji, one of Tokyo’s oldest neighborhoods. However, due to the increasing demand for seafood and limited space, the market was relocated to Toyosu in 2018. The new facility spans across 408,000 square meters and is now equipped with state-of-the-art facilities such as automated sorting machines and temperature-controlled storage areas.

Despite the physical changes, Toyo Sushi still maintains its traditional auction system where seafood is sold directly from fish wholesalers to retailers. This intense bidding process can be seen early in the morning when tuna auctions take place. It is a sight that many visitors find fascinating and truly unique to this famous market.

Selection of Seafood at Toyo Sushi

Toyo Sushi offers a wide selection of seafood sourced from all over Japan. Customers can find various types of fish such as tuna, salmon, eel, octopus, and more. Not only that, but shellfish such as oysters and clams are also available at this market.

Each day at Toyo Sushi starts with fresh tuna being brought in from Tsukiji or Oma, renowned for their high-quality tunas. The tuna auctions then take place where buyers carefully inspect the fish before making their bids. The auctions are open to the public, providing an exciting experience for visitors.

In addition to the traditional auction system, Toyo Sushi also has a “dead stock” area where unsold seafood from the auction is sold at discounted prices. Here, customers can find a variety of seafood at bargain prices.

Not Just a Market: Dining at Toyo Sushi

Toyo Sushi is not just a market, but also a place where one can enjoy delicious sushi and other Japanese dishes. Within the complex, there are several restaurants offering fresh seafood dishes made with ingredients directly from Toyo Sushi’s market. One of the must-try dishes is the tuna sashimi, sliced fresh from the morning’s auction.

For tourists looking for a more hands-on experience, there are also sushi-making classes available at some of the restaurants in Toyo Sushi. Here, participants can learn from professional sushi chefs and make their own delectable creations using fresh seafood from the market.

Hours and How to Get There

Toyo Sushi is open to visitors every day except Sundays and national holidays. The operating hours are from 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM on weekdays and from 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturdays.

The easiest way to get to Toyosu Market is by taking the Yurikamome Line train which connects to major train stations in Tokyo such as Shinbashi Station. Visitors can also take the Toei Bus or use private car services.

Visiting Toyo Sushi: Tips and Etiquette

When visiting Toyo Sushi, it is important to follow some rules and etiquette to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone:

Do not touch the seafood. The market is a busy place, and any handling of the seafood can cause disruptions to the buyers and sellers.
Do not take photos during the auctions. The flash can startle buyers and disrupt the bidding process.
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid blocking pathways or causing any disturbances.
Come early in the morning if you want to witness the tuna auctions, as they usually end around 6:30 AM.

Toyo Sushi is a must-visit destination for any seafood lover or those looking to experience an authentic Japanese fish market. With its rich history, selection of top-quality seafood, and various dining options, it offers a unique and exciting experience for both locals and tourists alike. So if you find yourself in Tokyo, make sure to add Toyo Sushi to your itinerary for a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure.

About Toyosu Sushi

Toyosu Sushi is a popular type of sushi that originated in Tokyo, Japan. It has gained popularity all around the world for its unique taste and texture. Unlike other sushi types, Toyosu Sushi is made using fresh and premium quality ingredients, making it a favorite among sushi connoisseurs.

Toyosu Sushi gets its name from the Toyosu Fish Market, which is the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. The market was recently relocated from Tsukiji to Toyosu in 2018, making it a must-visit destination for tourists looking to try authentic sushi in Japan.

The History of Toyosu Sushi

The history of Toyosu Sushi can be traced back to the Edo period (1603-1868) when people would preserve fish by packing them with salt and fermented rice. This preserved fish was known as nare-zushi and was often used to make sushi before refrigerators were invented.

In the early 19th century, Hanaya Yohei invented modern-day sushi by combining vinegar rice with fresh seafood toppings. This style of sushi became popular throughout Japan, including Tokyo’s burgeoning food scene.

As Tokyo’s population grew rapidly during the Meiji era (1868-1912), so did the demand for sushi. Many skilled sushi chefs migrated to Tokyo from other parts of Japan to meet this demand and introduced their unique styles of sushi-making, including Toyosu Sushi.

The Ingredients Used in Toyosu Sushi

The key to perfecting any type of sushi lies in the selection of ingredients used. In Toyosu Sushi, only fresh and high-quality ingredients are used to create a delectable dish that is pleasing to both the eyes and taste buds.

The most crucial ingredient in Toyosu Sushi is the fish. The chefs at Toyosu Sushi carefully select the fish based on their texture, freshness, and taste. The most commonly used fish in Toyosu Sushi include tuna, salmon, yellowtail, shrimp, and squid. Apart from these, unusual types of seafood such as uni (sea urchin) and ankimo (monkfish liver) are also used in some variants of Toyosu Sushi.

Apart from the fish, Toyosu Sushi also includes other ingredients like wasabi, soy sauce, daikon radish, and shiso leaves. Wasabi is used as a condiment to add a spicy kick to the sushi. Soy sauce is used to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish. Daikon radish is often used as a palate cleanser in between different sushi bites. Shiso leaves are added for their refreshing flavor that complements the delicate taste of the seafood.

The Making of Toyosu Sushi

The process of making Toyosu Sushi is an art form that requires years of training and practice to master. The chefs at Toyosu Sushi have spent years perfecting their craft to create intricate and visually appealing sushi dishes.

The first step in making Toyosu Sushi is preparing the vinegared rice. The chefs use high-quality Japanese rice and mix it with specially seasoned vinegar to get the perfect balance of flavors.

Next comes the cutting and slicing of the fish. The chefs use precise techniques to cut each fillet into thin slices according to its particular characteristics.

The final step is assembling all the ingredients together on a plate or wooden tray known as a chirashi-sushidon or “scattered sushi bowl.” The chef carefully arranges each ingredient on top of bite-sized vinegar rice balls to create beautifully plated pieces of sushi art.

How to Enjoy Toyosu Sushi

Toyosu Sushi is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Some people prefer to eat it traditionally with chopsticks, while others enjoy it with their hands. Whichever way you choose, the best way to enjoy Toyosu Sushi is by taking small bites and savoring the flavors.

Some people also like to dip their sushi in soy sauce before eating it, while others prefer to add a bit of wasabi on top of the fish for an extra kick. Whatever your preference may be, make sure to try different combinations to find what works best for your taste buds.

Where to Find Toyosu Sushi

If you are planning a trip to Tokyo, you cannot miss out on trying Toyosu Sushi at one of the many renowned sushi restaurants in the city. Many top-rated sushi restaurants in Tokyo specialize in serving Toyosu Sushi, making it a perfect destination for sushi lovers.

Apart from Tokyo, some restaurants around the world have also started offering Toyosu Sushi on their menu. So, if you are unable to travel to Japan, you can still get a taste of this delectable dish.

In conclusion

Q: What is Toyosu Sushi?
A: Toyosu Sushi is a type of sushi restaurant located in the Toyosu district of Tokyo, Japan. It is known for serving high quality and traditional Japanese sushi dishes.

Q: How does Toyosu Sushi differ from other sushi restaurants?
A: Toyosu Sushi sets itself apart by using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. They also pride themselves on offering a more traditional and authentic sushi experience.

Q: Can I make reservations at Toyosu Sushi?
A: Yes, reservations can be made either online or by phone. However, walk-in customers are also welcome and usually accommodated depending on availability.

Q: Is there a dress code at Toyosu Sushi?
A: No, there is no specified dress code, but it is recommended to dress comfortably as seating may be on traditional tatami mats.

Q: Does Toyosu Sushi offer any vegetarian or vegan options?
A: While their main focus is traditional sushi dishes, they do offer some vegetarian options such as avocado rolls and vegetable tempura. However, it is best to inform the staff of any dietary restrictions beforehand.

Q: Can I bring my own alcoholic beverages to Toyosu Sushi?
A: No, outside beverages are not allowed as they have a wide selection of sake and other alcoholic drinks available for purchase.

In conclusion, Toyosu Sushi is a modern, state-of-the-art facility that houses the world’s largest fish market and a bustling wholesale seafood market. It also features a variety of restaurants and shops where visitors can enjoy the freshest and highest quality sushi and other seafood dishes.

Throughout this discussion, we have explored the history of Toyosu Sushi and its relocation from Tsukiji Market, as well as its impressive facilities and cutting-edge technology that ensures the freshness and quality of their products. We have also delved into the educational opportunities available for visitors to learn about the Japanese food culture and the importance of sustainability in the seafood industry.

Overall, Toyosu Sushi represents a fusion of tradition and innovation, as it continues to uphold Japan’s rich culinary heritage while adapting to modern advancements. It showcases how technology can enhance food production without compromising on taste or tradition. Furthermore, visiting Toyosu Sushi is not only a gastronomic experience but also an opportunity to gain insight into Japanese culture and values.

As we conclude our exploration of What Is Toyosu Sushi?, it is clear that this iconic destination has solidified its place as a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists. Its commitment to sustainability, freshness, and quality in its seafood

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.

Unveiling the Mysteries of Toyosu Sushi: A Guide to Tokyo’s Famous Fish Market