Tokyo Toyosu Tuna Auction w Dealer + Sushi (Standard to VIP)

Tokyo Toyosu Tuna Auction w Dealer + Sushi (Standard to VIP)

Getting up before dawn to witness Japan’s most iconic seafood event might sound like an ordeal, but for those curious about the inner workings of Japan’s tuna industry and sushi culture, it’s a rare opportunity. Priced at $133 per person, this tour takes you into the heart of Toyosu Market, Tokyo’s latest seafood hub, known for its famous bluefin tuna auction. The tour offers a choice of six different experiences—ranging from a public gallery to exclusive, floor-level access—each with breakfast options that highlight the freshness of the local catch.

What we love about this experience is the chance to get up close and personal with the auction process. Watching expert buyers inspect and bid on top-quality tuna, sometimes fresh (unfrozen), gives you an authentic glimpse of Japan’s seafood market. The other big plus: finishing with a delicious seafood breakfast, whether it’s a tuna bowl at Yamahara or sushi at Sushi Dai, adds a satisfying, flavorful end to an early morning adventure.

One thing to consider is that this tour starts at 5:30 AM, which might be a challenge if you’re not an early riser or if public transport isn’t running that early. Also, VIP access is extremely limited—only two guests per day—so it requires planning and early booking if you want the closest view possible. This experience is best suited for food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone interested in Japan’s seafood industry, especially those who enjoy authentic, behind-the-scenes moments.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: The VIP option puts you on the actual auction floor, a rare glimpse typically reserved for licensed professionals.
• Authentic Experience: Watching hand signals and bidding, especially on fresh tuna, immerses you in Japan’s fishing and sushi culture.
• Behind-the-Scenes Visits: The tour includes a peek at a real tuna wholesaler’s booth, offering insight into how the prized fish are graded and prepared.
• Flexible Viewing Options: Whether you prefer a comfortable gallery seat or the thrill of standing on the auction floor, there’s a level for every comfort and curiosity.
• Culinary Finish: The breakfast options—Yamahara’s tuna bowls or Sushi Dai’s top-tier sushi—are both highly praised and a treat after the early start.
• Guided Insight: With English-speaking guides who explain the auction process and market logistics, you’ll come away with more than just photos—you’ll understand what makes Japanese tuna culture unique.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tokyo Toyosu Tuna Auction Tour

If you’ve ever watched a documentary about Japan’s seafood industry or read about bluefin tuna being auctioned for millions of yen, you’ll appreciate how this tour makes that scene accessible. The Toyosu Market, opened in 2018, replaced the famous Tsukiji Fish Market and is now the site of some of Japan’s most significant fish transactions. While Tsukiji drew travelers with its lively fish market, Toyosu offers a cleaner, more modern setting with a focus on the auction process.

This tour is designed to let you choose how close you want to get. The three viewing options offer a spectrum: from a public gallery to a ground-level deck, and finally, the auction floor itself. Each grants a different perspective on the “maguro no seri” ritual—a fast-paced, almost dance-like process of bidding, signaling with hand signs, and evaluating the quality of the fish.

The Auction Experience

We loved the way the tour provides insight into the auction’s rhythm. Watching the auctioneers’ calls and the hand signals in real time makes the process feel alive. The ground-level deck is a fantastic middle ground—close enough to see the tension on the buyers’ faces and the small details of tuna grading, but still with some distance.

For those craving the ultimate experience, the VIP access on the auction floor is a real highlight. With only two guests per day, you’re shoulder to shoulder with brokers and insiders, witnessing fresh tuna being bid on—an event that’s rarely open to outsiders. As one reviewer put it, “It was really cool to see how the professionals slice the tuna,” making the experience not just visual but also tactile and informative.

Visiting a Tuna Wholesaler

Another special part of this tour is visiting a real tuna wholesale booth. This behind-the-scenes stop is more than just a photo op; it’s an educational moment. You see how freshly purchased tuna are inspected, cut, and prepared—an essential step before they make it to top sushi counters in Tokyo. Our guides do a good job explaining the grading process, which adds depth to the experience and helps you appreciate the value placed on quality.

The Breakfast Choices

After the auction, everyone joins in a premium breakfast—a highlight for many. Yamahara, a favorite among seafood insiders, offers ultra-fresh tuna bowls that are simply addictive. Alternatively, Sushi Dai, renowned for its seasonal, top-grade fish, provides a more refined sushi experience. With limited seating at Sushi Dai, booking early is advisable if you want that option.

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Practical Considerations

Starting at 5:30 AM, this tour demands an early rise, but most reviews agree it’s well worth the effort. The tour includes a short guided walk around Toyosu’s public zone, offering context about the market’s layout and other seafood highlights. Group size varies depending on your chosen experience, with smaller groups providing a more intimate look—especially the VIP option.

Transportation to the meeting point, PR Square inside Toyosu Market, is not included, so plan ahead. For VIP participants, arriving early by taxi or on foot is recommended, as public transport isn’t available at that hour.

What We Think Travelers Will Love

This tour offers great value for the price—especially considering the access and insider knowledge you receive. The guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making complex auction signals understandable and relatable. Several reviews mention how Rabia, our guide, was personable and friendly, which enhances the experience.

The combination of educational value and culinary reward makes this a standout activity for foodies or anyone interested in Japanese culture. The chance to witness a live auction of bluefin tuna and then enjoy fresh sushi or tuna bowls is a memorable way to start the day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s perfect if you’re an early riser, curious about Japan’s seafood industry, or a sushi lover wanting to see where the fish come from. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a more authentic, behind-the-scenes look rather than the usual tourist spots. However, it’s not suited for wheelchair users or vegetarians, and the early start might not suit everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 5:30 AM, so you’ll need to get up early. Arriving on time is crucial, especially if you’re taking public transportation.

What are the different viewing options?
You can choose from a VIP experience on the auction floor, an exclusive ground-level deck viewing, or a standard gallery view from the third floor. Each provides a different perspective and proximity.

Are breakfast options included?
Yes. After the auction, you’ll enjoy a premium breakfast at either Yamahara or Sushi Dai, depending on your plan. Both are highly praised, especially for their fresh seafood.

How many people are allowed in each experience?
VIP access is limited to two guests per day, making it a very exclusive experience. The ground deck can accommodate up to four guests, while the gallery is open to larger groups.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from Toyosu Market isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to arrive early, especially if you’re coming from central Tokyo.

Can I pay on the day of the tour?
No, the booking is pay-later, offering flexibility to travelers who want to reserve but not commit immediately.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a unique, authentic glimpse into Japan’s seafood industry, this tour delivers. The opportunity to witness live tuna auctions, combined with expert guides who explain the process, makes it a compelling choice for foodies and cultural travelers alike. The inclusion of front-row access—especially the VIP experience—means you’re truly close to the action, not just watching from afar.

The breakfast options at Yamahara or Sushi Dai top off the experience with some of the freshest seafood you’ll find in Tokyo. While the early start and limited VIP spots might pose logistical challenges, those who commit will find it’s a worthwhile adventure that offers both insight and delicious rewards.

This tour handles the delicate balance of offering an educational behind-the-scenes look without sacrificing fun or flavor. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to see what makes Japan’s sushi scene so famous—from the auction block to the dinner plate.

To sum it up, this experience is best suited for food lovers and culturally curious travelers willing to wake early for something truly special. Whether you choose the general gallery view or the exclusive auction floor, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind Japan’s sushi obsession. With guides that make complex market routines understandable and breakfasts that satisfy even the most discerning seafood lovers, it’s a morning well spent in Tokyo.

You can check availability for your dates here: