Real Toyosu Fish Market +Make Sushi +Macha Tea Experience

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, chances are you’ve heard of the famous Tsukiji Market, but the Toyosu Fish Market has become the new go-to spot for anyone wanting a genuine, hands-on look at Japan’s seafood scene. This tour offers more than just a walk through a market; it’s an immersive cultural experience that combines shopping, sushi making, and the serenity of traditional tea ceremonies—all in one fun-packed day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the actual market floor visit allows you to see the bustling fish vendors up close—something you can’t do from the restricted observatory. Second, the chance to make your own sushi, from selecting fresh ingredients to rolling your own, is both educational and delicious. Third, the tea ceremony and sake tasting provide authentic insights into Japanese tradition, elevating the experience beyond just food.

A potential consideration? The tour is quite action-packed and includes a fair amount of walking and hands-on activities, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy active, cultural experiences. If you’re looking for a relaxed, sit-back-and-watch tour, it may not be the right fit. Still, if you’re eager to learn and taste like a local, this experience could very well be a highlight of your Japan visit.

This tour is ideal for foodies, culture enthusiasts, and travelers who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s a fantastic way to get a genuine taste of Tokyo’s seafood, culinary, and traditional arts scenes—all in one memorable outing.

Key Points

• Authentic Market Experience: Walk the actual Toyosu Fish Market floor, not just the overlook.
• Hands-On Sushi Making: Create five types of sushi, including futomaki and chirashi, with fresh ingredients.
• Cultural Insights: Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and learn about sushi knives and sake.
• Food and Drink Included: Sake tasting with two included drinks, optional additional tastings.
• Flexible and Informative: Optional kimono wear, night tour, and other extras available within the time limit.
• Value-Driven: For $162, you get a full, immersive experience blending education, culture, and cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting at Toyosu Fish Market

The journey begins at the Shijo Mae station on the Yurikamome line, with a clear meeting point at the Senkyakubanrai east gate, marked by a recognizable Lawson convenience store and guide holding a white VAS sign. Unlike the typical visit to the market’s observation deck, here you’ll walk directly on the market floor itself. This is a game-changer for anyone who craves a genuine, up-close look at the bustling seafood hub where Japan’s freshest catches are sold.

Visitors have described this part as “spectacular,” with one reviewer emphasizing how being able to buy actual fish from the vendors and see the operation firsthand adds authenticity and excitement. The market is busy but orderly, with a vibrant atmosphere that hints at the importance of seafood in Japanese cuisine.

The Market Walk and Food Shopping

Once inside, you’re encouraged to select ingredients directly from the vendors. This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s shopping like a local. You might find yourself eyeing glistening tuna, marinated shellfish, or freshly caught fish, all sold at prices considerably lower than you’d pay at a restaurant. One reviewer shared that they even bought a set of knives, which the guides had engraved with their surname—a delightful souvenir and a practical tool for sushi preparation.

Sushi Making at VAS Kitchen Studio

After the market visit, the tour moves to the VAS kitchen studio, where the real fun begins. Here, you will learn how to make five authentic types of sushi: gunkan, tamari, futomaki, chirashi, and oshi sushi. The guide will walk you through each step, sharing tips on rolling, slicing, and presentation—skills that will improve your sushi game long after your trip.

Reviewers praised the sushi experience as “pretty cool,” recounting how they learned what they’d been doing wrong at home. The value here is notable: you’ll be creating sushi of quality comparable to what you’d find in a restaurant, but at a fraction of the price, considering the markup in commercial eateries can be five to ten times higher.

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Tea Ceremony and Confectionery

Next, the focus shifts to Japanese tea ceremony confectionaries. You’ll get a chance to make traditional sweets, which are usually quite delicate and beautiful. Following this, a proper tea ceremony with experienced professors allows you to quietly absorb the calming ritual that symbolizes Japanese hospitality and harmony.

Travelers have shared that this part of the experience offers much more than just tasting; it’s about feeling connected to centuries-old traditions that emphasize mindfulness and respect.

Sake Tasting and Optional Onsen

The tour also includes a sake tasting, featuring two drinks that showcase the nuanced flavors of Japanese rice wine. If you’re interested, you can opt to extend your immersion by visiting a local onsen hot spring bathhouse—a relaxing way to end the day, though onsen entry fees are not included and need to be paid separately.

Extras and Flexibility

The tour offers optional extras like kimono dressing or a night tour of Tokyo, depending on your schedule. With a flexible itinerary, you can choose up to two options, making it adaptable to different interests and time constraints.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $162 per person, the price point might seem steep for just a few hours, but when you consider what’s included—the market walk, sushi making, sake tasting, tea ceremony, and personalized guidance—it offers significant value. Compared to dining at a high-end sushi restaurant or taking separate lessons, this tour consolidates culture, cuisine, and education into one affordable package.

Authentic access to the actual fish market and the ability to purchase and enjoy your creations on-site distinguish this experience from other more generic market tours. Reviewers have mentioned how private, personalized guidance and the chance to learn from professionals make a notable difference, especially the mention of guides like Max, who went above and beyond to enhance their experience.

What To Keep in Mind

• The experience is quite active, involving walking, buying, cooking, and tasting. Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately.
• The tour duration is enough to cover all activities, but those seeking a more relaxed pace might find it a little intense.
• Sake tasting includes two drinks; additional tastings are optional and available if you want to sample more.
• Onsen visits are optional and at your own expense—perfect for those wanting extra relaxation after the tour.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a compelling blend of culinary education, cultural insight, and authentic Japanese flavors. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see the real Toyosu Fish Market, learn about sushi craft, and experience traditional tea and sake rituals. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and hands-on activities make it feel personal and memorable.

For anyone who wants more than just sightseeing and craves a genuine connection to Japan’s food culture, this experience hits the mark. It’s perfect for curious food lovers, culture buffs, and those wanting to take home practical skills—like making sushi or choosing knives—that will last well beyond your trip.

FAQ

Do I get to walk on the actual Toyosu Fish Market floor?
Yes, the tour includes a walk directly on the market floor, giving you an up-close look at seafood vendors and the lively atmosphere, not just the overview from above.

Are food and drinks included?
The tour includes your self-made sushi lunch, sake tasting with two drinks, and confectionery making. Extra sake tastings or beverages are optional and at your expense.

Can I buy fish or souvenirs during the tour?
Absolutely. You can purchase fresh fish and even engraved kitchen knives from the vendors, which many visitors find to be special keepsakes.

What’s the duration of the tour?
While the exact length isn’t specified, it covers all activities from the market walk through sushi making and tea ceremonies, with optional extras, making it a full and immersive experience.

Is the tour suitable for non-Japanese speakers?
Yes, guides speak English and Japanese, ensuring clear explanations and cultural insights throughout the experience.

Can I visit an onsen after the tour?
Yes, an optional onsen bathhouse visit is available, but onsen entry fees are not included and need to be paid separately.

If you’re looking for a hands-on, culturally rich experience that combines Tokyo’s freshest seafood with traditional arts, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments. It’s a fantastic way to see the city through a culinary lens, leaving you with new skills and a deeper appreciation for Japanese food culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: