Size of the fish market
daily sale
Number of tourists daily visiting
Tokyo, 2016
The old Tsukiji market in Tokyo was one of the most famous and largest fish markets in the world. Its history dates back to the 1930s, when it opened in 1935. It was built as part of a larger plan to rebuild the city after the 1923 Great Kanto earthquake. Tsukiji market gained international fame for its fresh seafood, fish and tuna auction shows, which attracted tourists and traders from all over the world. At its peak, thousands of tons of seafood passed through the market every day.
One of the most famous features of Tsukiji was the tuna auctions that took place in the early morning hours. Tuna, some weighing hundreds of kilograms, were sold for tens of thousands of dollars, a testament to their quality and market value.
Street food markets are an inseparable part of Indian culture, and visiting them gives us the opportunity to get to know the authentic flavors of this fascinating country.
To get into the group visiting Tsukiji Market and seeing the tuna auction we had to stand in line from 2-5am.
In October 2018, the market moved to a new location in Toyosu, ending Tsukiji's more than 80-year history at its original location. The move was a result of the need to modernize facilities and improve sanitary standards. The modern Toyosu Fish Market continues the Tsukiji tradition, offering similar services but in more advanced and hygienic conditions.
Although the central fish market has been relocated, the outer part of Tsukiji still functions as a popular tourist destination, offering restaurants, seafood shops, and a variety of culinary specialties.
Food culture in Japan is incredibly diverse and deeply rooted in tradition, and Tokyo residents have a wide range of dishes to choose from. Among the most popular dishes we can find:
1. **Sushi**: This is one of the most famous Japanese dishes, consisting of vinegared rice and various additions, most often raw seafood, vegetables or eggs.
2. **Ramen**: A popular soup based on broth, served with wheat noodles and various additions, such as meat, egg or vegetables.
3. **Tempura**: Dishes fried in batter, most often seafood or vegetables.
4. **Okonomiyaki**: A Japanese type of pancake that can be compared to pizza; it consists of dough with cabbage and various additions, such as meat, seafood and sauces.
5. **Sashimi**: Raw slices of fish or seafood, often served with soy sauce and wasabi.
6. **Yakitori**: Grilled chicken skewers, a popular dish at izakaya, Japanese pubs.
7. **Udon and Soba**: Various types of noodles that can be served both cold and hot, with a variety of toppings.
8. **Tonkotsu/ Tonkatsu**: Breaded pork chop, deep-fried, often served with cabbage and rice.
9. **Takoyaki**: Dough balls with pieces of octopus, popular as street food.
10. **Matcha**: Although not a food, but a drink or dessert ingredient, matcha tea and desserts made with it are also an important part of Tokyo's culinary culture.
Tokyo has both traditional restaurants and modern establishments serving a fusion of Japanese and international cuisine. The city also offers a wide variety of street food, available at numerous markets and festivals.
In local non-tourist restaurants the atmosphere during a meal is different from the European one. Usually you sit at tables like in milk bars, the menu is in Japanese displayed on the walls in written graphics. During the meal, the Japanese talk loudly while eating. The names of the dishes are incomprehensible, so when you order you get a surprise. Our specialty became breaded oysters fried in deep oil with the addition of soy sauce with chili.
Tokyo is one of the most populous cities in the world, with a population of around 14 million in the metropolitan area alone. If the Tokyo metropolitan area is included, this number increases to over 37 million inhabitants.
The Tokyo metropolitan area covers an area of approximately 2,194 km². It is one of the largest cities in the world in terms of urban area.
Tokyo, officially Tokyo Metropolis, is the capital of Japan and one of the most populous cities in the world. The city is located on Honshu Island, the largest island in Japan, in the Kanto region. As the political, economic, and cultural center of Japan, Tokyo plays a key role both domestically and internationally.
Tokyo's history dates back to the 17th century, when the city was known as Edo. It flourished as the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan from 1603 to 1868. In 1868, during the Meiji Restoration, the emperor moved the capital from Kyoto to Edo, which was renamed Tokyo, meaning "Eastern Capital."
Today, Tokyo is synonymous with modernity and technology. It is known for its impressive architecture, including skyscrapers such as the Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower, as well as its advanced public transportation system, including the famous Shinkansen trains.
The city is also a global financial center, home to many international corporations and banks.
Tokyo’s culture is incredibly diverse, blending tradition with modernity. It’s home to numerous temples and shrines, such as Senso-ji in Asakusa, and modern shopping and entertainment districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Harajuku. The city also offers a wide range of culinary offerings, from traditional Japanese cuisine like sushi and ramen to international favorites.
Tokyo has hosted the Summer Olympics twice, in 1964 and 2020 (although the latter was postponed in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The city is also home to many museums, theaters, art galleries, and other cultural institutions.
Despite its size and the intensity of urban life, Tokyo is also home to numerous parks and green spaces, such as the Imperial Garden and Yoyogi Park. Tokyo continues to attract tourists and locals alike with its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of attractions.
Tokyo has one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world. The rail network has over 900 stations and is served by a variety of lines, including the famous Shinkansen (high-speed trains).
Japanese girls' clothing is incredibly diverse, encompassing both traditional cultural elements and modern fashion trends.
1. **Kimono**: This is a classic, traditional Japanese garment worn by women, usually on special occasions such as weddings, tea ceremonies, and festivals. Kimono is known for its intricate design, rich colors, and high-quality materials, usually silk.
2. **Yukata**: This is a lighter, summer version of kimono, usually made of cotton. It is popular during summer festivals and fireworks displays. Yukata is a more casual outfit, although it also has its own rules for tying the obi (belt).
3. **Lolita Fashion**: This is a fashion subculture that has gained popularity both in Japan and abroad. The Lolita style is inspired by the aesthetics of the Victorian and Rococo eras, and is characterized by ornate dresses, lace, frills, and accessories such as bows and hats.
4. **Harajuku Style**: Tokyo's Harajuku district is known as a mecca for avant-garde and experimental fashion. This style is eclectic, combining a variety of motifs, colors, and accessories, often in a way that defies typical fashion norms. It is an expression of individualism and creativity.
5. **Ulzzang/Seifuku**: Influenced by Korean culture, ulzzang style includes subtle makeup and fashions that are inspired by school clothes - seifuku. School uniforms are very popular as everyday Harajuku-inspired outfits.
6. **Modern Urban Fashion**: Modern Japanese girls also often opt for more moderate and functional urban outfits, which can include both Western brands and local designers. This style is dominated by simplicity and elegance, often with a touch of minimalism.
The mix of tradition and modernity makes fashion in Japan fascinating and unique, and Japanese girls often become style icons around the world.
Footwear, known as *tabi* and *geta*, are traditional Japanese dress codes, often associated with geisha. *Tabi* are a type of sock with a separate big toe that is worn with traditional Japanese shoes, such as *zori* or *geta*. This design allows for the wearing of slippers with a strap between the toes.
Geisha often wear these shoes during performances and ceremonies, where their outfit and every detail plays an important role in creating a beautiful and harmonious image. With their unique style, *tabi* and *geta* are an essential part of traditional Japanese fashion, symbolizing elegance and attention to detail.
1. **Kimono**: This is the main piece of clothing, usually made of silk with rich patterns and colors. Geisha often wear kimonos in more subdued colors during the day and more colorful ones in the evening.
2. **Obi**: This is a wide belt worn around the kimono, which is a key decorative element. A geisha's obi can be very ornate and is often tied in intricate bows at the back, called an "obi musubi."
3. **Obiage**: A silk scarf that is worn between the obi and the kimono, adding an extra touch of color and texture.
4. **Obijime**: A decorative string that helps secure the obi in place and also adds elegance.
5. **Datejime**: Underneath the obi is a simple belt that holds the kimono in place and supports the obi.
6. **Naga-juban**: This is the undergarment worn under the kimono. It is a type of silk petticoat.
7. **Geta or Zori**: Traditional footwear that is often worn with tabi, which are white socks with a separated big toe.
**Kanzashi** Hair ornaments that are an important part of a geisha's hairstyle, often made of lacquered wood, silk, or metal. A geisha's costume is carefully thought out and full of symbolism, and each element has its own meaning and history.
These geisha costumes are distinguished not only by their beautiful design, but also by the careful way they are put on. One of the key elements of a geisha kimono is the obi – a wide belt that is wrapped around the body and tied at the back in a decorative bow. Tying the obi is not only practical, but also plays an important aesthetic role, adding elegance to the whole.
The average life expectancy in Japan is one of the highest in the world. As of 2021, the average life expectancy was around 87 years for women and 81 years for men. The longevity of the Japanese is attributed to various factors, such as a healthy diet, an active lifestyle, good healthcare systems, and strong social ties.
When it comes to hobbies, the Japanese have a wide range of interests:
1. **Martial arts**: Many Japanese practice traditional martial arts such as judo, karate, and kendo. 2. **Origami**: The art of paper folding is popular with both children and adults. 3. **Bonsai gardening**: Creating miniature bonsai trees is a hobby that requires patience and precision. 4. **Pottery and calligraphy**: Traditional crafts are valued and practiced as a form of relaxation and artistic expression. 5. **Manga and anime**: Reading manga and watching anime are popular pastimes, and many fans engage in cosplay and attend conventions. 6. **Fishing and golf**: These are popular outdoor activities, especially among older people. 7. **Hiking and hiking**: Due to the beautiful landscapes and numerous national parks, many people enjoy hiking and exploring nature. 8. **Cooking**: Experimenting with traditional and modern Japanese dishes is also common. Japanese culture values both preserving traditions and adopting new trends, which is evident in the diverse interests of its people.
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