Summer is the perfect season to indulge in fresh, vibrant seafood, and Asia’s bustling seafood markets offer some of the finest catches anywhere in the world. These markets are a treasure trove of oceanic delights, from glistening fish to succulent shellfish, providing a feast for the senses.
As you explore these vibrant markets, you’ll not only find the freshest ingredients but also immerse yourself in the local culture’s lively and authentic atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or a curious foodie, these top seafood markets across Asia promise an unforgettable culinary adventure.
See also: A food lover’s guide to Seoul, South Korea
Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo, Japan
(Photo: AXP Photography/Unsplash)
Although the inner wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji Outer Market remains a bustling hub for fresh seafood. Here, you can find an array of fish, shellfish and other oceanic delicacies, along with kitchenware and street food stalls.
What to try: Fresh sashimi, grilled scallops and sea urchin
Hua Hin Night Market in Hua Hin, Thailand
A popular destination for both locals and tourists, Hua Hin Night Market transforms into a seafood lover’s paradise at dusk. Stalls offer a variety of fresh catches that can be grilled or cooked to order.
What to try: Grilled prawns, squid and blue crabs
Noryangjin Fish Market in Seoul, South Korea
(Photo: William Warby/Unsplash)
One of Korea’s largest and most famous seafood markets, Noryangjin offers a wide variety of seafood fresh from the ocean. Visitors can purchase their seafood and have it prepared on-site at nearby restaurants.
What to try: Live octopus, or sannakji, king crab and abalone
Kota Kinabalu Central Market in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Located by the waterfront, this market is known for its incredible variety of fresh seafood. The market offers an immersive experience where you can select your seafood and have it cooked at nearby restaurants.
What to try: Giant tiger prawns, lobsters and stingray
Jimbaran Fish Market in Bali, Indonesia
Situated on the shores of Jimbaran Bay, this market is a vibrant spot where fishermen bring in their daily catch. The market is famed for its fresh seafood, which can be enjoyed at nearby beachside restaurants.
What to try: Grilled snapper, squid and clams
Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan, South Korea
(Photo: Daniel Bernard/Unsplash)
Known for its lively atmosphere, Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan is the largest seafood market in Korea. The market is filled with vendors selling freshly caught fish, squid, octopus and more.
What to try: Busan-style fish stew or haemultang, raw fish or hoe, and grilled eel
Mahachai Market in Samut Sakhon, Thailand
Just outside Bangkok, Mahachai Market is one of Thailand’s largest seafood markets. It offers an impressive selection of fresh seafood, from giant prawns to various fish species.
What to try: Steamed crabs, mackerel and mantis shrimp
Cavite City Public Market in Cavite, Philippines
Known locally as a seafood haven, Cavite City Public Market offers a wide range of fresh seafood from Manila Bay. The market is bustling with activity and rich in local flavours.
What to try: Mussels, oysters and milkfish or bangus
Tai O Fishing Village in Hong Kong
(Photo: David Tang/Unsplash)
Tai O is a traditional fishing village known for its stilt houses and seafood markets. The market offers a variety of dried and fresh seafood, providing a glimpse into Hong Kong’s maritime culture.
What to try: Dried shrimp, salted fish and cuttlefish
Cochin Fish Market in Kochi, India
In the southern state of Kerala, Cochin Fish Market is a vibrant place where fresh catches from the Arabian Sea are sold daily. The market is known for its diverse and abundant seafood offerings.
What to try: Kingfish, tiger prawns and squid
This article is powered by AI. We are dedicated to bringing you meaningful content, and AI enables us to explore this frontier and deliver more content you will love.
NOW READ
Where to eat if you only have one night in Singapore, according to Singapore’s top foodies
Where to drink during Asia’s 50 Best Bars in Hong Kong, from Darkside to Call Me Al, and more