Guided by an expert chef

You'll be led by an expert chef with years of experience in Michelin-starred kitchens, who will guide you through every fascinating detail of Japan's seafood culture.

Paco La Monica - Executive Chef at 81 (on the left). With a career spanning some of the world's most acclaimed kitchens, Paco La Monica brings a deep well of global experience and culinary insight. Trained at Noma (Copenhagen), Gaggan (Bangkok), and KOKS (Faroe Islands). In Japan he co-managed a boutique hotel in Nagano and studied kaiseki at Satoyama Jujo. Former Sous Chef at Gucci Osteria Ginza and Executive Chef at the American Club Tokyo, where he led the kitchen build and opening from scratch. Now co-leading the next chapter of restaurant 81, developing a new culinary horizon between Tokyo and Niseko.

Alessio Gorni - Brand Engagement at 81 (on the right). With a multidisciplinary background spanning fine arts, event production, and hospitality, Alessio has worked across Europe, Australia, and Japan, building a career at the intersection of creativity and communication. From opening a community-oriented pizza store in his hometown to high-performing PR and sales roles in Japan, he lastly co-founded a platform for creative avant-garde art experiences in Tokyo and now bridges vision with execution for 81, connecting concept, experience, partners, and clients.

❖ Meet at Shijo-mae Station

06:30 (15 min)

Gather at the ticket gate of Shijo-mae Station for a short briefing before stepping into the restricted wholesale buildings of Toyosu Market.

❖ 1st Floor of the Fisheries Intermediate Wholesale Market Building

06:45 - 07:35 (50 min)

Your adventure begins with an introduction to the inner workings of Toyosu Market, where you'll learn about the meticulous process behind selecting top-quality fish. Discover the importance of factors like seasonality, fat content, and fish variety that determine the selection process, and watch firsthand how these extraordinary fish are chosen by the best in the business.

As you venture deeper into the market, you'll meet the expert vendors who supply Tokyo's most prestigious restaurants. These passionate seafood experts will share their knowledge, allowing you to appreciate the nuances of Japanese culinary tradition and gain insights into the fine art of seafood procurement.

❖ 3rd Floor of the Fisheries Intermediate Wholesale Market Building

07:40 - 08:00 (20 min)

But the experience doesn't end there. After exploring the seafood section, you'll make your way to Toyosu's vibrant wholesale markets for vegetables and dry goods, where the heart of Japan's culinary diversity comes to life. Here, you can explore an array of unique Japanese ingredients, from rare vegetables to specialty dry goods that are essential to authentic Japanese cuisine. If you're feeling adventurous, you'll even have the chance to purchase some ingredients to take home and recreate your own Japanese culinary masterpieces.

❖ Finish at Shijo-mae Station

08:30

To round off this immersive experience, we highly recommend a traditional Toyosu breakfast. Indulge in fresh sushi made with the finest fish from the market, expertly prepared to highlight the true flavors of Tokyo's seafood. This exclusive tour is a must for anyone passionate about Japanese cuisine, offering unparalleled access to one of the world's most renowned markets and a deeper understanding of the food culture that defines Japan.