Mainichi reports that the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has sent notices to embassies, hotels and travel companies about a month-long ban on tourists going to the popular Tsukiji fish market, blaming the large number of foreigners for obstructing business.
“Priceless” by Sanctu: Tuna lined up for bidding, a typical scene at the Tsukiji Fish Market.
Still from Mainichi:
The Tuna Markets, as they are known, are one of the three most popular tourist spots in Tokyo, alongside Akihabara and Asakusa. During early morning hours there were nearly 500 visitors on some days; but many working at the markets have complained of visitors’ showing a lack of courtesy to staff.
According to a tuna wholesalers’ association, the rush in foreign visitors started with the “sushi boom” 10 or so years ago, and has grown especially severe over the past five to six years, following news of the market’s planned closure.
While the auctions are technically off-limits to spectators, auctioneers have informally allowed people to watch from a designated area of the auction hall. With many taking flash photography or touching the produce, however, auctioneers and market workers alike have often been disturbed by visitors: “They can’t understand the language, so we can’t even warn them,” complained one.
Having had an interest in visiting Tsukiji, I actually wondered how the regular people there can conduct their business smoothly with all the tourists walking around and taking pictures. I guess I won’t be visiting for a while.
Recent Comments