Vibrant Morning, Quiet Solace – A Journey Through Tsukiji Market and Honganji Temple

Where Tokyo's day begins. **Tsukiji** is a neighborhood that truly embodies the phrase "alive." Fresh seafood, bustling merchants, tantalizing aromas, and just around the corner, the serene tranquility of a temple. This intriguing contrast is what makes Tsukiji so captivating. ⸻ 1️⃣ Morning Energy – Exploring Tsukiji Outer Market At 8 AM, I arrived at Tsukiji Outer Market, already teeming with people in its narrow alleys. • 🐟 Tuna sashimi, squid skewers, tamagoyaki—street foods you can sample at every corner. • 🍣 While famous conveyor belt sushi restaurants like "Sushi Zanmai" are popular, I opted for a small shop tucked away in an alley with a shorter line. Thick slices of tuna sushi paired with a warm bowl of miso soup—what better way to start the day? • 🛍️ From canned tuna and dried seafood to yuzu chili paste, I also browsed through specialty items that exuded the charm of Japanese home cooking. ⸻ 2️⃣ Quiet Solace – Tsukiji Honganji Temple Right next to the market, an exotic architectural structure caught my eye—Tsukiji Honganji Temple. • 🕍 At first glance, I wondered, "Is this really a Buddhist temple?" Its Indian-style stone design and European-style windows were striking. • The interior was open to everyone, with the gentle sound of Buddhist chants and the aroma of incense offering a stark contrast to the bustling market atmosphere. • I took off my shoes and quietly sat inside for a while, experiencing a peculiar sense of peace that erased the market's hustle and bustle. ⸻ 3️⃣ A Stroll Around – Back to the Market After leaving the temple, I returned to the market. This time, I indulged in sesame ice cream, crispy shrimp tempura, and a matcha latte at a café to wrap up my visit. Though seemingly chaotic, the market felt alive. On one side, tradition; on the other, fresh culinary delights—all coexisting under the name "Tsukiji." ⸻ ✨ In Conclusion Tsukiji is best experienced in the morning. And the nearby Honganji Temple, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the market's hustle, completes the balance of this journey. "A day filled with both heart and stomach." Tsukiji filled the first chapter of my day perfectly.