Ah yes, Tsukiji. I am probably one of the few who
doesn't come here for the fish market, but rather for the outside market. It's full of liveliness and fresh Japanese traditional food from everything from azuki beans to wasabi plants.
The other reason I always come to Tsukiji is to make a pilgrimage to the Tsuki Hongwanji Temple which is a big sub-temple from its mother temple,
Nishi-Hongwanji. But even if you're not religious at all, it's one of the hidden gems of architectural marvel in Tokyo. First of all, it doesn't look like the typical Japanese temple; that's because it was modeled after Indian Buddhist temples. The inside is also just as beautiful; the main worship area is free to the public and if you're lucky you'll also be able to hear traditional
gagaku music. In any case, you can't really go wrong stopping by for a short stroll after filling yourself up on sushi at the Tsukiji Market - it'll be right in front of you when you exit from the metro so you can't miss it.
And now off to the Tsukiji outer markets...
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| The infamous Yakult ladies making her round! |
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| Tsukji outer market is also a hidden gem for a quick lunch. Many of the clientele work in the market so they KNOW what fresh food is. It's also fast and filling for the hungry workers. |
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| Knife shop owner sharpening his masterpieces |
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| Tsukiji market also has a great selection of kitchenware including knives, china, chopsticks... all good quality too |
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| One pack of strawberries for...$7, and you thought Whole Foods was expensive |
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| Fresh wasabi root |
Ginza doesn't have too much to do other than shopping and eating but one thing to check out is the Kabuki-theater. They just finished renovating it and the bottom floor has a shopping/eating space that's perfect to buy souvenirs
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| There's even a shrine dedicated to Kabuki |
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