On the lower west side of Tokyo along the Tokyo Bay lies the cultural powerhouse of Tsukiji fish market. The market has been running in its current location since 1935. Fish retailers wake up before the crack of dawn to prepare for the day’s sales, which begin as early as 4:30AM at the infamous tuna auctions, reach fever pitch by 9:00AM, and are usually over by around noon. To those that work there, Tsukiji is more than just a market—it is a symbol of Japan and a way of life that has been passed down for generations. To the dismay of both fishermen and those who have frequented the market over the years, the market will permanently relocate in November of this year away from central Tokyo for safety concerns and in preparation for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

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