Tsukiji: End of An Era

Tsukiji: End of An Era

A photo essay

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Tsukiji’s beloved and legendary fish market ceased operations on Saturday, October 6 after 83 years at the site. It was a day filled with strong emotions. Quite a few inner market workers have chosen retirement over a move to the new market in Toyosu and many more are unhappy with the Tokyo government’s decision to relocate. It was also a day filled with uncertainty for the neighboring outer market, which will remain in its current locations. Will tourists still visit once the inner market is gone? These shopkeepers’ livelihoods hang in the balance.

The following photographs were taken on Tsukiji’s final day of business.

Tsukiji End of an Era Olivier Desmet Photo Essay Tsukiji Fish Market Last Day Tsukiji
Toichiro Iida of House of Hicho, a well-known and highly regarded tuna wholesaler, takes out a piece of hon-maguro (blue-fin tuna) from the refrigerator case.
Tsukiji End of an Era Olivier Desmet Photo Essay Tsukiji Fish Market Last Day Tsukiji
A nakaoroshi gyosha (intermediate wholesaler) greets a friend with a warm smile.
Tsukiji End of an Era Olivier Desmet Photo Essay Tsukiji Fish Market Last Day Tsukiji
A tsukiji fishmonger slices a tuna carcass.
Tsukiji End of an Era Olivier Desmet Photo Essay Tsukiji Fish Market Last Day Tsukiji
Chef Ito of Sushi Zanmai Honten, located in Tsuiji’s outer market. Many outer market shops and restaurants expect a downturn in business after the inner market’s move to Toyosu.