In 1935, the Tsukiji Market opened in Tokyo, Japan, becoming the largest wholesale fish market in the world. The market was built on reclaimed land in the Tsukiji district, replacing the Nihonbashi fish market that had operated since the early 17th century. Tsukiji became a hub for the global seafood trade, handling thousands of tons of fish daily and serving as the setting for the famous tuna auctions. The market operated at this location until 2018, when it was relocated to Toyosu.

Tsukiji Market is a recurring motif in Japanese literature, from the haiku of the Showa period to the novels of Haruki Murakami. Its vibrant atmosphere and iconic tuna auctions have been depicted in poetry and prose, symbolizing the vitality of Tokyo's food culture. The market also appears in the works of foreign writers who visited Japan, such as Lafcadio Hearn.