Million Yen Fish

This weeks theme will be 'Fish, Sea, Brittany!' (yes it does rime) and if we are going to talk about anything fishy there is no better place to start than the Tsukiji market also known as the Tokyo fish Market.

I visited the market a couple of years ago so some of my information might be a little outdated but I still have a vivid memory of it. My friend and I arrived to the market at 4.30am (already a bit late as the market opens at 1am!) after a long night on the bus. It is fair to say that I was not ready for this incredible experience! The largest fish market on the planet, more of a busy maze than a market, was getting ready for the auctions. My friend looked at me and warned me: they do not like tourists beware!

Outright hatred is what I felt really as some furious scooter trucks launch my way at great speed! The place is more busy than a hive and quiet frankly we were getting in the way of  professionals doing their jobs so I could understand their reluctance to have tourists constantly taking photos and trying to touch the fish. Being the largest fish market on the planet you can find every form of sea life from the small shrimps to the enormous Tunas (300kg)! This fish is one of the most expensive ones which explains why special care is given to it and carving becomes the art of precision!

This unique experience would not be complete if it was not for the sushi breakfast we simply had to have! Around the market some tiny sushi shops take pride in serving the freshest possible sushi. After queueing for some time you get sited behind the sushi bar so you can watch the Japanese chef as he is dishing out your fishy breakfast. Coffee and croissant is so 'passé' !

For more information and a bit of history on Tsukiji maket go to:
http://www.tsukiji-market.or.jp/

Frozen tuna fish

Sushi chef at 5.30 am

Takes a few men to cut the fish