They might be wet (and a little fishy!), but fish markets can be one of the most entertaining stops on your travels. From weird delicacies to flying sea creatures, a trip to a fish market is sure to keep you on your toes.
Take a peek at these five fish markets around the world.
Tsujiki Fish Market, Tokyo, Japan
One of the world’s most well-known fish markets, Tokyo’s Tsujiki doesn’t mess around when it comes to delivering the freshest tuna to sushi chefs and seafood restaurants around the city. You’ll have to wake up at the break of dawn to catch the excitement of the daily fish auctions, which start at 5 a.m. and are limited to the first 120 visitors, but it’s worth a peek into this local institution. If you come later in the day, you can chow down on some of the city’s freshest seafood at one of the restaurants both inside and surrounding the market.
Pike Place Market, Seattle, Washington, United States
Sure, Pike Place Market is the oldest continually running farmer’s market in the U.S., and it’s home to the original Starbucks location, too. There’s always one thing people come to see at this Seattle market, though, and it’s the flying fish. The salmon-tossing fishmongers of Pike Place are a market institution, entertaining visitors by hurling fish over their heads — or even at them, if they’re willing to get behind the counter.
Noryangjin Fish Market, Seoul, South Korea
Seoul’s main fish market is home to endless rows of stalls filled with every sea creature imaginable, from squid and octopi to sea urchins and eel. Visitors can take their pick of fresh seafood and take it to one of the underground restaurants to have it fried or served in a stew, Korean-style. Adventurous eaters won’t want to miss a chance to try sannakji, or “live octopus.” Baby octopi are cut up and served raw, and while they aren’t technically still alive, their nerves keep twitching long after they’re served, meaning a tentacle or two may stick to your mouth on the way down.
Hamburg Fish Market, Hamburg, Germany
While technically a fish market, there isn’t much you can’t find at Germany’s Hamburg Fish Market. This centuries-old market was once an auction hall for the day’s fresh catches, but today, you’ll find everything from antiques and souvenirs to local delicacies and produce, all set to the energetic buzz of live bands.
Sydney Fish Market, Sydney, Australia
The seaside city of Sydney is home to the largest fish market in the Southern Hemisphere, with massive amounts of seafood (more than 30 million pounds) passing through the market each year. This is good news for hungry visitors, who can watch purveyors, fishermen and restaurateurs haggle over the day’s catch before digging into a plate of Sydney’s freshest fare at one of the area’s restaurants or oyster bars.
(Main image: LWYang)
