Arguably the largest and most frenetic market of its kind the world, the Tsukiji fish and produce market turns over 700,000 metric tons of seafood every year. The busiest times are the peak of weekday auctions which begin at 5am with the heaviest trading tapering off by 8am. However, at aproximatly 11am, the office clerks, accountants, and managers all vacate for an early meal, returning within the hour for cleanup and close at 1:00. During this time the most active market in the world, takes a very brief breath, a moment in stasis, the day’s work yet unfinished. These pictures of desks and work areas were taken during this approximately 45min window.