A Feast for the Senses and a Baptism for the Soul: Half-Day Tour of Tsukiji Market and Tsukiji Honganji Temple
One-Day Tour of Tsukiji Market and Honganji Temple
For this trip to Tokyo, we specially arranged a one-day tour of Tsukiji Market and Tsukiji Honganji Temple. These two neighboring spots have completely different atmospheres, allowing visitors to experience both the vibrant and tranquil sides of Tokyo.
Tsukiji Market: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Early in the morning, we arrived at the outer area of Tsukiji Market, which was already bustling with lively crowds. The air was filled with the aromas of seafood, grilled meats, and various snacks, making our mouths water.
Inside the market, we were first drawn to a seafood donburi shop with a long line outside. The sign read “Sushi Kuni.” We decided to join the queue and were not disappointed. The “Sea Urchin Donburi” was generously portioned, topped with two different types of sea urchin covering the entire bowl. The fresh, sweet flavor melted in our mouths, leaving a lasting impression.
Next, we wandered through the market stalls and saw many tempting delicacies. The most eye-catching was a whole row of stalls displaying premium meats. Fresh A5 Wagyu skewers were showcased in a refrigerated case, with evenly marbled fat that looked incredibly delicious. Unable to resist, we ordered a Wagyu skewer. The meat was tender and juicy, with the smoky aroma of charcoal perfectly blending with the Wagyu’s rich fat, melting in our mouths.
Besides meat, seafood is undoubtedly the highlight of Tsukiji Market. We saw huge, fresh oysters topped with lemon slices that looked very inviting. There were also various grilled seafood skewers, including shrimp, scallops, and grilled eel, each making our mouths water. In the market, there was even a statue of a man dressed as a chef, arms wide open, seemingly welcoming every visitor in search of delicious food.
Tsukiji Honganji Temple: A Sanctuary for the Soul
After savoring the lively atmosphere and delicious food at Tsukiji Market, we walked over to the nearby Tsukiji Honganji Temple. Transitioning from the market’s hustle and bustle to the temple’s tranquility felt like stepping from one world into another.
The architectural style of Tsukiji Honganji is very unique. Unlike traditional Japanese temples, it blends elements from India, the Middle East, and Europe, resembling a grand palace. The solemn main gate, huge circular roof, and intricate carvings all left a deep impression.
At the temple entrance, we saw a large statue of a figure wearing monk’s robes and a straw hat, holding a staff, with a solemn expression, as if silently guarding the land. This statue harmonizes with the temple’s architectural style, creating a dignified and solemn atmosphere.
Inside the temple, we were even more struck by its grandeur and serenity. The massive pipe organ, stained glass windows, and soaring ceilings made us feel as if we were inside a cathedral. Inside the temple, one can sit quietly and feel the peace and harmony, a stark contrast to the outside world’s noise.
Summary
This trip to Tsukiji Market and Tsukiji Honganji Temple was full of surprises. At Tsukiji Market, we experienced Tokyo’s most authentic food culture and tasted a variety of fresh and delicious dishes. At Tsukiji Honganji Temple, we felt the tranquility of the soul and the beauty of solemn art. The combination of these two places made this journey satisfy both the palate and the spirit, making it a must-visit stop when traveling to Tokyo.