Tokyo's Tsukiji Market urges tourists to avoid December visits over crowding

Tokyo's famous Tsukiji Outer Market has made an unusual appeal asking tourists to avoid visiting during December to prevent the overcrowding chaos experienced during last year's holiday season.

The Tsukiji Outer Market Management Association posted formal notices Monday explaining that December's combination of international tourists and local shoppers creates extreme congestion, making passage through narrow streets nearly impossible and discouraging regular customers.

Association chairman Kitada stated the market was originally designed for food service professionals rather than tourism but has entered "overtourism" status since the Tokyo Olympics. Despite implementing "Tsukiji Eight Manners" guidelines prohibiting walking while eating and blocking pathways, last December's overwhelming crowds prompted this unprecedented tourist discouragement.

Market vendors report losing longtime customers who avoid the crowded conditions. The association hopes tour operators and guides will cooperate by avoiding December food tour arrangements at the seafood and specialty food market.

The appeal represents extraordinary measures for the popular destination, with management emphasizing they seek visitor understanding to prevent market chaos while allowing local shoppers safer access during peak season.