Tokyo Attractions

Venue: Tsukiji Fish Market    When: Daily; Weekdays only

Tsukiji Fish Market is one of the biggest markets in the world, handling nearly 3000 tons of marine products every day, and is often described as Tokyo's kitchen.

The market was established back in the 16th century by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa shogun and builder of Edo, now Tokyo. The shogun granted fishermen from the local Tsukudajima district in Osaka fishing rights in return for seafood supplies for Edo Castle.

In terms of hustle and bustle the market is still a carbon copy of how it was 400 years ago. Insomniacs should get up early to witness the frenetic tuna auction and inspection. It's definitely worth sacrificing a few hours' sleep to take in this spectacle, which makes London's Billingsgate look tame.

By 5.30am bidders begin to survey the vast open floors of frozen tuna, which are then shunted about like giant ice hockey pucks. Wrap up warmly, and don't be surprised if you spend much of the time dodging the porters and their loads.

There are more than 450 types of fish here, including Japanese scallops and mouth-watering sea cucumbers. Most visitors eventually grow weary of the unceasing commotion, so we recommend slipping off to one of the sushi bars and ordering the freshest fish delicacies you're ever likely to experience.