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Before watching the film, to be honest, I thought Japan was overrated because all Japanese products are so expensive, including Japanese fruits, vegetables, and sushi. However, after watching the film, I saw how much Japanese merchants care about their fish and their products. Now I believe that the prices are worth the quality. (Taelim)

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<Nidhi>
This film only showed the happy side of the workers of Tsukiji market. It would have been nice to see a more balanced group of interviewed people and if we also saw people who were struggling or not happy with the way things went in Tsukiji market. However, I think that the film makers specifically chose not to do this, because they wanted to honor the market (as I said before) instead of show it in a negative light.

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<Nidhi>
I think that if there is no other option, it is best to relocate the market to keep their heritage alive. However, I do think it is necessary that the practice it self is not altered to become more appealing to tourists or other groups that the market was initially not intended for. I think that this would alter and take away from the original heritage and culture of the Tsukiji market. Shortly said, I think relocation can still preserve the heritage of the Tsukiji market as long as the true principle of the market is not altered to fit the standards of others.

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To honor this aspect of Japanese culture

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To honor this aspect of Japanese culture

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<Nidhi>
I think this film is a means to show to the world the Tsukiji market and the place it holds in the heart of the wholesalers. For them, the Tsukiji market is their life and they put almost all of their passion and energy in it. It also shows the importance that food, especially fish, holds in the Japanese culture (especially for the older generations). I think this film serves as a means to honor this I also think this film serves as a means to memorize the Tsukiji market for what it once was, since it will now be moved to another place.

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<Nidhi>
For me personally, this film supported my already existing views on Japan. I have always thought of Japan as a country with a rich culture, where food plays an important role. I have also always had the idea that the Japanese are hardworking and excellence-striving people, which this film also supported. However, I was not aware that even in a very competitive environment, there was still a sense of friendliness and  and camaraderie, which was shown at Tsukiji market.

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Before this film, I have learnt about Japan mainly as a smart city, one of the modern asia cities with smart infrastructure (earthquake detection technology, smart buildings), good recycling initiatives and sustainability efforts. Once again, from a rather technological and infrastrucural perspective when viewing japan as a city.

This film informed me about the cultural landscape of japan through the lens of its fish industry. Although with minimal “smart” elements (in a data and tech sense) in Tsukiji market, yet still a very smart place (in its most authentic sense), where people were actively observing, sensing information (“data”) about the fish, consolidating information, strategising their auction bids (“making data-driven decisions”), communicating (“transferring”) information… etc using efficient ways / tools to deal with the fish.

All these “data collection and transferrance” were done not motivated by electricity for optimal efficiency but rather willingly, intentionally done with “care” from the heart (albeit maybe not entirely, but desired and aimed to be), done with a desire to honor others - the fishermen who sacrifice their life to get those massive tuna, the customers who trusts them with the fish, the cook who is looking forward to creating top notch sushi … etc.

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memory bank, mirror, healing, dream factory

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memory bank, mirror, healing, dream factory

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I think its main purpose could have been to serve as a memory bank - to capture and preserve the tsukiji culture in its originality of the 1900s to early 2000s, in its present space before its closed and new culture develops in the new space.

Additionally, it also served as a mirror, reflecting certain, mainly positive realities of the market.

It could have also served as a healing tool, for those feeling the grief and loss of the space. This film provides a medium for their nostalgia to find its expression.

Possibly, it could also be a dream, a way of life (faithfulness, relational work ethics, trust, quality, passion etc.) pitched for the new tsukiji market and the next generation of japanese to emulate after. An intangible cultural element to treasure

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yes, heritage progresses too; preserve insofar as it is "relevant"

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yes, heritage progresses too; preserve insofar as it is "relevant"

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I believe this is necessary.

Considering the insights in class earlier, in some sense, these heritage places may only be preserved if they are altered.

From a practical perspective, in order to sustain maintainence costs. From a realisitc perspective, in order to stay relevant for the evolving cultural community.

Additionally if we are continuing with the thread that history is fluid, culture is fluid, a city is evolving and dynamic. Progress is an innate part of us, and maybe it could be as a innate part of these heritage places too?

Maybe the “progress” and the way it evolves spaces around us, could be a reflection of heritage too, an evolving heritage.

Yet it would still be important to preserve “previous” heritages, but perhaps insofar as it is “relevant to understand contemporary social life” (quoting bestor).

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As a memory bank I think it has been made to be very impactful, in bringing nostalgia.

However as a dream factory, perhaps it would be helped with a more balanced view of possible struggles faced by the workers there?

After watching, I wondered how did they picked people to interview?
These people are very passionate, with generational legacies in the business. However, were there also less glamorous aspects of the fish market not captured?

For example,

I enjoyed that they highlighted the “trickery” they play with each other, and the “stress” from the competitiveness, as it sort of made the market landscape alittle more real and relatable, amidst the feel-good work ethics that were pitched.

Yet amidst these possible lethargy and stress that comes with the work, it also seemed to be overcome by their passion and drive in their work ethic.

Maybe a more balanced view, in this sense of providing perspectives about some of the wrestles and struggles as part of the job (as with any other job we do on earth), can actually make the film more impactful in possibly allowing the audience to consider the power of these intangibles (passion, relationships, the craft) in helping them actually overcome / overlook the menial mundanity of work?

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I would have loved to see a follow-up on the market after its relocation. I think that way we could see how it's changed, what has stayed the same, and how the wholesalers feel about the relocation. I think it would also be interesting to see if the relocation helped to spring up more or less business, what new issues they face, and what issues were solved. I think then the audience could compare even more how heritage and tradition change (or stay the same) over time. (Victoria Samotis)

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I think with something as important as Tsukiji market (in the practical sense as it is a global supplier), it makes sense to alter certain aspects to keep the heritage alive. If they were concerned about the loss of fish trade that they were experiencing, perhaps relocation was a solution to preserve the heritage and the business. However, we should be careful not to turn heritage sites into 'tourist traps' where the only goal is to profit. I believe once the entire purpose of a traditional/cultural place has turned into something different, it might not ever have the true heritage again. I think Tsukiji has made an attempt to progress/modernize and still preserve the culture of the market by the relocation. It remains to be seen how effective this has been. (Victoria Samotis)

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I believe the filmmaker was attempting to preserve a cultural hub of activity in Tokyo. In the film, the chefs, experts, and wholesalers seemed to view Tsukiji as an interconnected community dedicated to keeping alive tradition and heritage through the love of seafood. I think the filmmaker was attempting to honor, share, and memorialize a place that features unique aspects of Japanese culture and society by making this film. (Victoria Samotis)

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More focus on the influence on the global market. 

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More focus on the influence on the global market. 

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<Minsong Kim> I think as this film is targeting the global viewers, it should have focused more on the influence on the global market. For example, globally even though sushi a famous cuisine, still there are majority of people who really eat or like sushi. So the scene that depicted how sellers put their effort to maintain the quality and distinguish the most qualified fish, might be awkward to the foreign viewers and the sellers' passion for the quality could not be perfectly understandable for them. So if I were the film maker, I would focus on the other factors (other cuisines that uses fish from Tsukiji market, the foreign experts' words evaluating the taste of the fish etc.) that shows how influential the market is.

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The depth of cultural values runs so much deeper than I thought in Japan, and it became quite clear from Tsukiji wonderland that it really does operate in everything they do. The expertise, quality, precision, camaraderie, etc. that the wholesalers ran their practices, and seeing those as cultural values, were never something I thought of as inherent in Japanese culture. The film felt like a glimpse into how societal values in Japan can bleed into their business and the local community. (Victoria Samotis)

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Yes, if it is the way to protect the heritage. 

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Yes, if it is the way to protect the heritage. 

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<Minsong Kim>
Climate changes and geography changes as time goes by. So the location of the heritage might change either more vulnerable or safer than before. So if it is necessary to change the location of the heritage for the sake of preventing it from damages, I think altering the place of the heritage is needed. Otherwise, sticking on to the vulnerable location due to adhering the tradition could lead to vanishing and destroying the heritage.

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I believe that Japanese seafood functions globally, and while the film did a good job of showing the domestic demand in the Tsukiji market, I don't think it did a good job of showing the role it plays in expanding the view to Asia and the world. So, if the film had covered the market, cultural heritage, and people's spirit both domestically and internationally, I think it would have resonated with a wider audience. (Minji Lee)

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<Minsong Kim>
I think the film's objective is to preserve the original Tsukiji market as a film before its removal. As the replacement happens, even though the sellers and their culture are moved intactly I think the atmosphere couldn't be exactly reappeared as before and some renovation could be made within the replacement. Meanwhile, film can act as a method to preserve the untouched, original culture and the lives of the Tsukiji market by depicting and capturing the real moments in the market. And as the film could be maintained for ages, it could be a historical, memorable material to tell the future generations about Tsukiji market and a criterion to the new Tsukiji market about how it should be developed and the direction it should pursue.

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When we talk about preserving heritage, I think one of the important things is its unique characteristics. For example, in cultural heritage, there are palaces and religious buildings. In this case, there's a need to try not to change a lot because one of their core identities is to be static and to showcase their glory. But in the case of a marketplace, it's more than just buying and selling, it's a living, breathing place where people interact and information is exchanged, so it's dynamic, and change can happen. By looking at these characteristics, I think there is an appropriate way of change that each cultural heritage site can have. So in the case of Tsukiji Market, even if the tangible things change, the intangible things, the "spirit," will remain important.
(Minji Lee)

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This serves as one important "recording". Given the value of this market as a cultural heritage site, this can be an important historical record. In fact, the director who made the film said that he made it as a gift to the future, when rumors were circulating that the Tsukiji Market was going to disappear. The Tsukiji Market has undergone some changes in the modern era, including the separation of the outdoor market from the indoor market. But the spirit of Japanese culture still lives on in this market. I think that's what Endo wanted to capture, to make it as vivid as it is, and to leave it as a meaningful record.
(Minji Lee)

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This movie supported my existing views on Japan, but also added new realizations. Japan is a popular tourist destination for Koreans because of its geographical advantages. Seeing Japan through the eyes of the Tsukiji market, I was able to see more than just tourism, but a system that is embedded with their culture and ideas.

It highlights the relationships between the market's various stakeholders, such as the fishermen, wholesalers, and restaurant owners, and explores their shared passion for seafood and dedication to their craft.

It's a natural ecosystem that reveals Japanese culture and the values of the Japanese people within the world of the marketplace. (Minji Lee)

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I would have like more stakeholders to be in the film and not only the main ones such as the people working. Some people could be the customers, the locals or the fisherman. Thus a bigger picture of the tsukiji market could be portrayed. (vera)

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Progress is a change. Altering heritage places may not be necessary for sake of progress. There can be the integration of these heritage places into the city. I feel that heritage places should only be altered and remove only as a last hope or if the society as a whole decides that it is no longer necessary. (vera)

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I think that the main objective of the film is to show us more about the market. In a way, the film is sort of a lasting memory of the tsukiji market before its closure in 2018. Also, it also allows an insight in the happenings of the market that is closed off to the people- both public and tourist. Perhaps to the people that interact, work and go to the market, even if the location has changed it helps preserve their memory of that place, of that time. I think it would be a “snapshot of that period of time where they flourished” as i feel this may not be able to last due to there being less fish due to overfishing.(vera)

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I feel like this film did not change my view of Japan.

In the past, my view of japan was one that was respectful, clean and love of food. You can see in the film how much respect that they have in Japan for each other and for their food. They respect the fish and the wholesalers know how to best cut the fish and the chefs would ask the wholesaler what fish best to serve.

My view of japan was also that it was a place that is fast placed and competitive and i guess like robotic? In the way that there is less time for human interactions. However you can see in the film that although they are busy, although they are competitors there is still a sense of camaraderie and helping each other. (vera)

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<Minsong Kim>
Before watching this film, my only knowledge about Japan was about their colonization history during the WW2. That’s because this was the only part that is mainly educated to students about Japan. So in my perspective, I had a negative view upon Japan, and never thought they had this kind of heritage that is worthy to respect.
So this film made me to broaden my view which was only focused on the negative history to the view of wisdom and passion of the merchants.

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A more diverse cast of the people who buys seafood from the market.

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A more diverse cast of the people who buys seafood from the market.

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One trend I have noticed is that the buyers of fresh seafood are all chefs that operate within Japan. It will be better if we can see from the perspective of multinational seafood packaging companies. I believe that the market supply chain is able to cater to the large demand for bulk orders from MNCs. I will like to see the interactions between the fisherman/director of the market and MNC leaders. What expectations do both parties have on each other and how both parties can successfully close a bulk purchase from the market.
(Edwin Ng)

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The 70/30 rule for cultural preservation.

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The 70/30 rule for cultural preservation.

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I believe that for the most part, the market should still keep most, if not all, of its core cultural elements as they define the uniqueness of the place. Hence the 70%

On the other hand, I do believe that some minor elements of the market should be adapted to modern trends in order to stir up interest and relatability among the next generation of Japanese citizens & tourists. Cultures and traditions that the next generation values are more likely to be preserved and passed on to the next generation. Hence the 30%

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Preservation Of Japan's culture and history followed by projecting soft power to the world

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Preservation Of Japan's culture and history followed by projecting soft power to the world

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The context of the movie happened shortly before the inner market moved out to a more modern facility located in a more isolated part of central Tokyo. This movie aims to preserve the the identity of the people within the market (ie their beliefs towards their craftsmanship and succession/lack of succession of a fish selling business within each family).

As for history, while its not the main objective, the film does do a decent job in objectively recording down the infrastructure and design of the market which has existed since 1928. This gives future generations a good idea of what the place looks like if the whole facility were to be demolished in the future.

Lastly, the movie does project soft power internationally. The movie is created in a easily digestible manner such that the average international watcher can easily understand its core message. Additionally, the favorable tone of the movie, as evident by the passion and strong work ethic Japanese chefs and fishermen exude, gives the watcher a good opinion of Japan.
Thus, international community is likely to have a positive opinion of the country, especially for their seafood.
(Edwin Ng)

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The movie is in line with my expectations on Japan. Rather, it provides more details to them. 

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The movie is in line with my expectations on Japan. Rather, it provides more details to them. 

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Before watching this movie, my general impressions on Japan is that it is a hardworking, perfectionist and collective society. The movie has not radically changed these 3 opinions I had but it adds more detail:
Hardworking: Both chefs and intermediary seafood sellers pride in going the extra mile to provide excellent service to its clients because it brings happiness to them.
Perfectionism: The fish sellers priding themselves in choosing the best quality of fish to buy has got me curious in understanding the source of this principal. What I learned that most businessmen believe and practice Kaizen philosophy that stresses continuous iterations of improve to a product till it reaches perfection. It takes more emphasis than cost efficiency, an idea contrarian to conventional business wisdom.
Collective society: The friendly interactions I see when each seafood seller led me to realize that the people value the social interaction vary much and care for each other. Looking out for each other is why the  community is able to be so tight knit.
(Edwin Ng)

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It would have been nice if the Japanese younger generation's opinions on the traditions of the Tsukiji market were included. I wonder what the younger generation in Japan thinks about this tradition, and if the goal of the film is to promote the tradition of the market, I think the current generation's opinion on it is important thing. Because they are the generation who will maintain the tradition in the future.

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I don't think maintaining heritage isn’t the same word to a lack of progress.

Progress can be made while maintaining heritage and the balance between the two can be sufficiently balanced.

I think it is a greater progress to combine each strength and leave heritage rather than choose between heritage and progress.

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The main objective of the movie is to promote the traditions and culture of the Tsukiji market.

Tsukiji Market has been maintained for a long time and its own culture is formed within it, and the traditionality of the market is noteworthy. And the culture of the market, where selling very good quality fish and simply buying and selling fish is not only important, but also trust between sellers and buyers is more important, gives us a sense of why the market has been maintained for a long time. Because of the excellence of this culture and tradition, I think it is the main objective of this movie to promote this.

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More Comprehensive Coverage of Perspectives 

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More Comprehensive Coverage of Perspectives 

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(Edwin Loh)
Including interviews with every stakeholder in the supply chain, starting with the fishermen who serve as the primary source, would have greatly enhanced the film's value. While the film did an admirable job of interviewing the majority of individuals at the Tsukiji fish market, it missed an opportunity to capture the perspectives of those associated with the chain but not directly connected to the market, such as the fishermen and the customers.

Incorporating interviews with the fishermen would have provided invaluable insights into their processes and the challenges they face. Witnessing their unwavering dedication and hard work would have fostered a deeper appreciation for their occupation and underscored the pivotal role played by the Tsukiji fish market in ensuring their efforts are duly recognized. Although the film touched upon this aspect through dialogues with the intermediate wholesalers (who did their jobs well as they wanted to honor the efforts of the fishermen), it would have been more impactful to delve further into the fishermen's experiences, emphasizing the market's location and organizational structure in facilitating the timely delivery and preservation of fresh catches for restaurants and ultimately the customers' satisfaction.

While it may be argued that interviewing customers is a stretch, it could have provided valuable insights. Through these interviews, we could have gained a profound understanding of the significance customers place on the processes at Tsukiji in terms of their confidence in consuming seafood. Their trust in the market's ability to consistently deliver fresh fish would influence their purchasing decisions (and thus the price/premium that they are willing to pay), thereby impacting the profitability of the entire supply chain. Such insights would have been instrumental in ensuring the market's competitiveness in an increasingly modernized and cost-driven industry.

Furthermore, it would have been captivating to hear people's thoughts on the relocation of the market. Although discussed in class where the film crew might have been restricted in terms of what they could ask or reveal, they could have considered interviewing individuals who were no longer at the market but had worked there in the past, particularly retirees. Gathering perspectives from these individuals would have shed light on their experiences and added depth to the discussion surrounding the market's relocation - such as what the market means to them, the necessity of the market to their lives, as well as the quality control of seafood.

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Change is a Necessity Rather Than a Choice

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Change is a Necessity Rather Than a Choice

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(Edwin Loh)
The transformation of heritage places resulting from globalization and modernization is an inevitable consequence. As people gain higher education and develop different aspirations, values, and belief systems, they naturally veer towards different paths and professions. Thus, I would argue that change is a necessity rather than a choice. Even if we resist altering our heritage, won't time itself gradually bring about change? The forces of competition and progress will inevitably influence practices, making it increasingly difficult for traditional customs to persist. Considering Tsukiji, for example, how long could they realistically uphold their practices in the face of modernization and technology, which offer more cost-effective alternatives? Time marches on, and people must adapt accordingly. While we should cherish and remember the past, clinging onto it solely for the sake of heritage might not be fruitful. Just as it is often better to conclude a beloved movie on a high note rather than prolonging it until it becomes lackluster (we can think of numerous shows that suffered from this fate), there is wisdom in allowing evolution to take its course.

Drawing a parallel to Singapore's hawker culture, despite the government's earnest efforts to preserve it, one must question whether it is truly being conserved. The generation of hawkers is dwindling, and their children are reluctant to inherit their businesses. Consequently, the government has established hawker centers staffed by employees, often from China and other countries, to prepare Singaporean cuisine. This has inevitably altered the taste and authenticity of the dishes. Thus, when tourists, including those from China, come to experience hawker culture, they might end up consuming food prepared by individuals with a strong influence from their home country. Detractors may argue that there are alternative ways, incentives, and perspectives to preserve the essence of heritage. However, in a world that progresses relentlessly, where education and perspectives evolve, it becomes increasingly challenging. Should we then halt progress altogether? I believe not. In fact, I would contend that each generation possesses its own unique heritage, contributing to the beauty and diversity of our world. Just like a captivating film needs contrasting elements to be truly engaging, our world thrives on the interplay of different traditions and legacies.

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(Edwin Loh)
The primary objective was to preserve the rich culture and heritage of the Tsukiji fish market, which faced the highly probable imminent threat of vanishing forever. It was an unprecedented opportunity for a film crew to gain prolonged access to the market, enabling them to immerse themselves in its vibrant pulse and conduct interviews with restaurant owners and wholesalers. Recognizing the inevitable passage of this era into history, film emerged as an invaluable medium capable of capturing the multi-sensory essence—its sights, sounds, and atmosphere—that eluded more traditional forms such as writing and photography.

However, the film's purpose transcends the mere preservation of a profoundly significant historical period; it also endeavors to evoke a bittersweet sentiment among its viewers. It serves as a poignant reminder that the loss extends beyond a single chapter of history, encompassing an entire generation whose lives were intricately intertwined with the world of fishing and savoring plentiful seafood. This poignant narrative resonates even more powerfully as we witness the impact of globalization, gradually diluting culture, heritage, and tradition. For example, one of the fishmongers who had managed a family business for 130 years expressed his sense of letting down his ancestors, as he realized that his son, an employee, would not continue the family business. This phenomenon is not unique to Tsukiji but is prevalent in developed nations, a consequence of globalization and modernization. A similar dilemma unfolds in Singapore, where hawker culture faces a similar decline. The younger generation, pursuing different aspirations and enticed by greater opportunities for financial success and a better life, forsake family businesses and age-old traditions. This is further exacerbated by the fact that Japanese children are becoming disconnected from the “traditional” world, unfamiliar with fish (and even thinking fishes are fillet) and consuming a diet dominated by globalized foods like instant noodles and burgers.

Furthermore, an underlying aspiration of the film is to share the richness of Japanese culture with audiences worldwide. In my opinion, cultural preservation inherently thrives on the purpose of sharing. Without an audience to appreciate it, one may question the enduring motivation for preservation (although some argue that preservation itself holds personal significance as well).

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The Duality of "Integrity" (Driven by Work Ethic)

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The Duality of "Integrity" (Driven by Work Ethic)

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(Edwin Loh)
I have always been intrigued by the renowned Japanese work ethic, but its impact truly resonated with me when I witnessed it firsthand in a film. One aspect that particularly stood out to me was the filmmaker's deliberate sequencing of scenes. Initially, the film depicted the wholesalers as individuals driven by integrity, willingly sacrificing personal profits to ensure the delivery of high-quality products to their customers. This portrayal led me to perceive them as individuals characterized by unwavering integrity in their professional endeavors. However, the movie swiftly transitioned to reveal an unexpected revelation—the wholesalers actually engaged in deception among themselves, all in the pursuit of securing the best fish for their customers. This stark contrast caught me off guard, prompting me to reflect on the true driving force behind their "integrity" practices. It became evident that it was not merely personal integrity propelling their actions, but rather a manifestation of the traditional Japanese work ethic—an unwavering commitment to their craft, accompanied by passion and pride.

This parallel reminded me of the employees at NASA, where each individual perceives their role as pivotal. Even the janitor at NASA considers their job as contributing to the monumental task of putting a man on the moon, viewing it as more than just a job. It appears that, for the Japanese, their work ethic transcends all other considerations, and they are unwilling to compromise their ethical standards in their pursuit of excellence, albeit in a (mostly) healthy competitive manner.

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I loved the film, I think it provided good insights and shone light on the market. I think something to enhance this film is to include more diverse perspectives. My favourite part is to watch nutritionists, food stylists, chefs, etc talk about how the market impacts them and how important food is in their line of work. Because Tsukiji Market is so popular and bustling, it will be great to see the vast impact it has on its visitors. (xinyi)

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Perhaps because I am a more sentimental person, I do not support changing heritage/cultural places. Though I believe that sometimes the meaning of a place transcends the actual geographical place, but I place value in the location where the memories and cultures were built. Therefore, I feel that it will be good to preserve heritage as it holds its own importance, at least for a place like Tsukiji Market! After watching how much love the wholesalers have for the place, it is heartwrenching to support altering it (xinyi)

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Food is a medium for cultural enrichment in Japan

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Food is a medium for cultural enrichment in Japan

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The film uses food, more specifically, sashimi and seafood as a medium to tell the story of Japanese tradition and culture.

I believe that the use of seafood connects with many westerners who are watching this show. Sashimi was sort of the first Japanese food that got international recognition, eating fish raw was a very foreign concept but yet its something that is widely accepted now due to ubiquitous sushi restaurant all around the world.

Seafood/sashimi can easily connect with most people who watched the film and becomes a very successful medium in translating Japanese corporate and work culture (Shu Liang)

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How traditions and heritage seeps into every part of Japanese culture

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How traditions and heritage seeps into every part of Japanese culture

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If I had just watched the show by myself without attempting to understand the cultural intricacy shown throughout the film, it would have just been a show about food and marketplace, nothing else more.

Japan is a country deeply rooted in their traditions and heritage. It's something that can be observed in all levels of society, even in a market place. We could see Japanese corporate culture in the auctions and the relationship between the wholesalers and the customers.

It also helped us to understand the shifting change in Japanese tradition as the younger generation takes over, priorities are changing and there is an attempt to preserve culture while at the same time modernize. (Shu Liang)

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Yes, it is necessary to alter heritage places for the sake of progress.

Heritage places are tangible entities that can suffer degradation over time. One may argue that altering heritage places carries negative connotations like disruptions and potential destruction of heritage. However, it is important to note that such interventions are temporary, especially in the context of the film. What holds greater significance is the intangible food heritage and the enduring spirit of the Japanese people, which can be passed down despite constant changes in the physical surroundings. This is exemplified by how the market was relocated rather than destroyed permanently. Besides, from the Q&A session with the filmmakers, it was revealed that while the Japanese people were saddened by the relocation of the fish market, they deemed it a necessary process due to the increasing demand for seafood, and thus they are more excited to see the new market opening.

In conclusion, the concept of heritage extends beyond the physical location and encompasses the intangible aspects that are shaped by the individuals who occupy those spaces, breathing life into heritage sites. It becomes imperative to make alterations to these sites in order to embrace progress.

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Some scenes have solidified my view about Japan, some have changed my view about Japan. First, my firm perception is that Japan considers it very important to keep tradition. In Japan, it is common for three generations to run a restaurant. And it is still common to use faxes or mails by sticking to analog. (It's hard to see this as a tradition, but in Japan, there is a strong tendency to stick to the old one.) That's why the Tsukiji market has been maintained for a very long time.

My point of view changed after watching the movie is that Japanese people think community is more important than I think. I knew that Japan was an individualistic society. Therefore, it was surprising that people who used the Tsukiji Market felt a sense of homogeneity and community toward each other and valued each other's trust.

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A lot of emphasis throughout the film is placed on the passion that the wholesalers and customers have for the market/culture. I feel that the purpose of the film is to showcase that and to celebrate this portion of their heritage, knowing that the market was to be moved in the future. Like what some of my classmates said, it is a way to archive and to remember this memory such that this part of Japan will not be lost in history. (xinyi)

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The film reinforces my opinions about Japan. It is my family's favourite country and I visited it ever since I was 3 years old. Watching how passion and love for the craft is gushing out of the sellers amaze me so much! I think it is incredible that they hold such great importance for food and they hold that passion in every step of the way. During my most recent trip to Japan in June, I remember thinking that it is fascinating how many Japanese do not speak English and have this tenacity to conserve their own traditions. However, after watching this film, I started to appreciate the fact that they stay relentless and preserve their cultural heritage, and what is important to them. (xinyi)

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Reduce duration of film + include more perspectives

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Reduce duration of film + include more perspectives

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I would have shortened the film to maintain audience interest and included perspectives from other important stakeholders that are essential to the functioning of the market, such as the fishermen who provide high-quality seafood to the end customers. I felt the film focused excessively on the inner market rather than the outer market. Since the inner market caters to professionals while the outer market appeals to the general public, it would have been more relatable to me if I also saw the daily moments and exchanges between the chefs/shop owners and the end customers.

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I'd love to know how the vendors feel about the new state of the market. It would be really nice if they do a follow up on the differences and similarities of the new market.

Additionally, I would've appreciated it if the different conversations they had followed more of a story vs bouncing from topic to topic. At times, the answers felt a little repetitive and I was itching for more understanding and information on some topics. (Reneé Tan)

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Since the fish market was relocated to Toyosu, the film captures and archives the rich food culture and traditions in the market that thrived for the past 80 years. The filmmaker's approach involves providing a comprehensive view of the fish market's daily operations, encompassing everything from seafood preparation to the presentation of final dishes to customers. It also revealed the diverse range of seafood in the market, such as tunas and eels. By depicting the everyday, mundane life of the people & food in the market, I thought the filmmaker successfully portrayed the collective memories & nostalgia felt by the Japanese people towards the market’s rich food culture.

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This is a difficult question!! hahaha :)

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This is a difficult question!! hahaha :)

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Honestly this question is really challenging. As much as I want to say that it's all about balance, realistically speaking balance in this topic is almost impossible to achieve. At some point you will have to take a side or at least lean towards one. Personally, I'm a big advocate of progress and believe that there are sacrifices that are worth being made to move forward; and that without change there is no room for innovation.

However, this is where respect and education come in.
(1) Respect in a sense that moving forward does not mean forgetting the past. You can innovate without being disrespectful. You can incorporate tradition, pay homage to it, keep the essence alive, and yet still progress.
(2) And education in a sense that this respect and essence must be made aware to both members of the traditional markets and consumers.

(Reneé Tan)

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Markets can be used to explore a country's heritage!

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Markets can be used to explore a country's heritage!

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I visited the market in 2015 and thought that the market was merely a commercial place, unaware of its rich history and culture. After watching the film, I saw seafood markets in a new way – I didn’t anticipate that markets can also be used to explore a country’s heritage! Besides, one particular line that caught my attention was from a wholesaler who said it was “not about money, but feelings [between the sellers and the buyers]”. This allowed me to understand how seafood markets work in Japan, where relationships are valued over mere profit-making endeavours.

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To me the film pays homage to the long-standing history and hard work that goes into the traditional film market. The film goes into a deep-dive of Tsukiji market from an inside perspective. Through the numerous conversations had throughout the film, the audience is given a behind the scenes glimpse of how deep the roots of tradition have grown within the market. The plethora of conversations allowed the audience to learn things that you wouldn't necessarily know if you just visited the market once or a few times. Moreover, the film shows how community is built in industries.

With all this in mind, it makes a point of how big the role of traditional markets are in society. It shows that shutting down a place is not just shutting down a business - you are altering an entire community's life. To me the film successfully delivered to the audience that there is humanity in business and there is community in tradition. It urges the audience to reflect on their heritage, whilst spreading awareness of such a beautiful history that lies so deeply in traditional markets. (Reneé Tan)

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Japan is actually my favorite country! No matter how many times I go back, I can never get over how amazing the Japanese people are. I am always in awe of their innate discipline and love for their country.

My last visit to Japan a local told me that even when there are no cars passing by, all Japanese citizens still wait for the green light to cross the street. He told me that this wasn't done out of fear; instead they do this just in case a young citizen is watching. According to them, they want to ensure that as mature citizens they can pose as good examples for the youth and the future of the country. That is such a beautiful representation of love for one's country in my opinion. And for me the film stayed true to this notion that I have on Japanese people and their culture.

The film encapsulates that to the Japanese, work is important. Not only to provide for their family, but also because they view working as a service to the country and feel honored to do so. In the film, one of the vendors said that the quality of their fish is so important because it will soon "become part of others' cells when the fish is eaten." The film portrays the Japanese mindset of working for their country and their future. (Reneé Tan)

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I think this movies main objective is to emphasize the importance of traditional market! It plays crucial role during the mordern times becuase we can share our information, knowledge, and even to the extent of arousing affection of humanity! And I think those sentiments that you can get only from traditional spece is quite necessary to human being. YC

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This film gave me no changes at all because this film showed me exactly how I imagined about Japanese culture! I could see the pride in the merchants who sold variety of fish and this is what I thought about Japanese traditional market. The fact that they don't really count on money was very impressive though. YC

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While the film captured almost everyone involved in the purchase, preparation and selling of fish, I think it would be interesting to take it one step further to include the fishermen's journey in obtaining fish.

As mentioned during conversations with chefs and wholesalers, they emphasized the need to "honor" the fishermen for their hardwork in securing good fish by either their craftsmanship or knowledge of the fish, hence bringing in the point of view right when the fish is caught would complete the audience's understanding. (Yi Qiang)

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I believe a balance has to be found between progression and heritage preservation, albeit difficult as it may be.

Pros: Redevelopment and the altering of these heritage places are essential for economic growth, infrastructure improvement and also adapting to the needs of the ever-changing society. These redevelopments can sometimes rejuvenate areas and even enhance overall quality of life by introducing new projects and opportunities.

Cons: The cultural, historical and somewhat aesthetic value of these heritage places will be destroyed, and hence diminishes the identity, pride and history that came with such a place. This would lead to a disconnection from the past, and perhaps even forgetting the roots that shaped the current environment

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Celebrate the people who make the market what it is

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Celebrate the people who make the market what it is

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The film focused on having conversations and monologues with various people introduced from the market, ranging from the intermediate wholesalers, auctioneers, chefs, and even the ice supplier. It highlighted the history of the market, and also gave insight into how everyone's interactions with one another played a part in shaping the culture of the market.

I believe it was also meant to emphasize the friendships and companionships everyone had with each other, even though some might be rivals during bidding, all seemed to be on big family under the Tsukiji rooftop. One quote that really struck me was "Our relationships are more important than our craft or the fish" from one of the intermediate wholesalers

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Greater insight into the fish market culture and industry

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Greater insight into the fish market culture and industry

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The film showcased the market's vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and the intricate processes involved in the seafood trade that range from dried fish all the way to frozen ones. It offered an intimate look into the daily lives of the intermediate wholesalers and chefs.

The film provided valuable insight into the ins and outs of the market, how there were different halls for different types of seafood, how the intermediate wholesalers interacted with chefs, how knowledgeable the intermediate wholesalers are when it comes to identifying what a good fish is. The film's usage of intimate conversations with the various stakeholders resulted in realistic and unfiltered comments and opinions from them, allowing us to truly understand how life was like at the fish market. (Yi Qiang)

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Too much focus on the daily life of the fishmongers.

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Too much focus on the daily life of the fishmongers.

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From my POV, the first hour or so of the film merely talks the daily life of the fish mongers, whereas the important part - the history and the closing down of the market only took the last 40/50 min of the film. I feel that there can be more focus on the future of the market, the emphasis on the urban planning and a suggestion on how to balance culture and progression of society (Xyuan)

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A balance between progress and culture preservation 

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A balance between progress and culture preservation 

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With technology advancement and countries moving towards digitalisation. Japan being a land scarce country and like other countries will definitely prioritise economic development compared to cultural heritage preservation. With online shopping becoming more common, fishes can be bought online without the visit to markets. The transit from offline to online made markets like Tsujiki lose their competitve advantage in the modern era. That being said, however, markets like Tsujiki should not close down or relocate just because it does not serve a strong economic purpose. Economic development is as important as cultural heritage and such balance could be achieved with precise land planning and urban policies. Moreover, taking example of Singapore's effort in Art and heritage presevation, it is no doubt that the government has put in effort in making changes since LKY's quote in saying poertry(form of art) is "a luxury we cant afford" in the then-fledging nation. Looking at Japan's GDP, it has been doing well and i believe that their focus now can be more towards culture/heritage preservation rather than a focus on economic development
(Xyuan)

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Cultural Preservation/Bonding of the society 

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Cultural Preservation/Bonding of the society 

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The film bring us through the daily life of the fish mongers, the unique positioning of the market and the history of the market, with it renovating/relocating to another place at the end of the movie. In the movie there was this quote "you get to know whats happening in the neighbourhood here at Tsukiji Market" shows that it is a place that brings people together. We all know that Japan is known for their Sashimi/sushi which is made of fresh fish a staple food for Japan. When we visit Japan, there is no doubt that we will try their sashimi or raw fish cuisines. The culinary skill in making such cuisine is crucial. However less people are willing to take up the culinary skill and to cook their own food - more willing to eat out. Moreover Tsujiki serves a purpose of bringing people together through the sell of fishes which make people from all backgrounds interact when they buy the fishes. With it closing down, it somehow suggest an end of the era and japanese culture subsiding. (Xyuan)

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This film broaden my perspective on Japan as it is very fascinating to see how a fish market can impact and bring so many different stakeholders in the society together. Prior to this, i more or less know the craze japanese have for tuna/sashimi or fish delicacies as a whole but it is to my surprise that the craze affected so many different stakeholders or kind of people in the society. On a cultural side, i always think or thought of Japan as a less competitive society whereas people can chill - not being competitive in terms of obtaining the things they want. However, i was amused/surprised to see that auction for fishes took place and the fishmongers have to play games in order to get the fish they want. This brings to the fact that maybe afterall competition exist everywhere, even in the fish market too. (Xyuan)

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The film successfully showcased Tsukiji's excellence but it was a little off balance. I would have loved for more struggles of Tsukiji to be included to present a more balanced perspective of the story.

(Angus)

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I guess the statement by the Harvard scholar summarised it well. According to him, Tsukiji is a culmination of friendship, work ethic, dedication to quality, the tacit knowledge/expertise about fish and the information. That said, I believe the objective of the film is to showcase the deep intricacies that exists within Tsukiji that truly makes it one of a kind.

(Angus)

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I think the perspective on Japanese craftmanship and the social nature of the market is very interesting. I do think that the ending which promotes a strongly fish-bases diet is a bit out of place, after the release of documentaries like Seaspiracy. Therefore I would leave out this promotion, or even add a section which discusses the current state of Japanese fishery and its' impact on ecosystems.

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Heritage and the good old days are a way to have a positive perspective on things that were passed, while progress is a way to illustrate new things as being better.
These terms, in my opinion, distort ethical discussions on what are good practises and what aren't. Some recent developments can be argued as good developments, like improving labour standards, while others can be seen as bad developments, like the impact of mass consumption on ecosystems. Similarly arguments calling on national heritage can be used to defend questionable practices (like the Dutch tradition of blackfacing before christmas), or make meaningful arguments about belonging and a culture.

In this film the modern diet is portrayed as alienated, which is a fair argument. Whereas the fish market is associated with social bonds among players in the process. Also the craftmanship is portrayed as a good thing.
At the ending the film, however, does mix this social aspect up with a praise of a strongly fish-based diet, which I do not think was the initial point of the bulk of the film.

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Promote and romanticise fish consumption

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Promote and romanticise fish consumption

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This film is an intimate portrait of a fish market in Japan. The main objective of this film is to illustrate this market in a positive way. Later on in the film it promotes fish consumption and connects that to nostaligic feelings.

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From the film, we come to learn about how what takes place at Tsukiji Market is less about the transaction of seafood being sold to clients in the food industry, but rather more about the chains of communication and information that are shared at every step of the process - from the fishermen to the wholesalers to the intermediate wholesalers to the clients themselves. We also see the nakama (camaraderie/friendships) between the wholesalers themselves, and the strong relationships that have stood the test of time between workers at Tsukiji and clients themselves. This serves to establishes the sociocultural value of Tsukiji Market, cementing its place as an important site of Japanese heritage that continues to be reproduced and revisited daily. (Pav)

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Focus on a few subjects in each role instead of interviewing multiple subjects for each role.

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Focus on a few subjects in each role instead of interviewing multiple subjects for each role.

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I felt that while the fact that the film interviewed multiple subjects in the roles of intermediate wholesalers and sushi chefs bolstered the credibility and thoroughness of the film in covering the ins and outs of Tsukiji Market, it led to a lot of the same things being said - which felt unnecessarily repetitive and caused me to disengage from the film often. Prior to watching this film, I had actually watched the documentary on Jiro Ono a few years ago and really enjoyed the way in which it traced the operations of the tiny, 'hole-in-the-wall' sushi restaurant - which included fish selection from Tsukiji Market. I feel that an approach like that, where the film could have focused on selected, single stories for each role (intermediate wholesalers, sushi chefs, etc.) would have created a greater impact. (Pav)