Tuna auction in Tokyo sees 276kg fish go for $1.31mn

Tuna auction in Tokyo sees 276kg fish go for $1.31mn
/ Unsplash - Michael Wave
By bno - Tokyo bureau January 6, 2025

A Tokyo fish market has once again witnessed a stunning display of competitive bidding, as the Onodera Group secured a prized bluefin tuna for a staggering JPY207mn (about $1.31mn). This hefty sum, paid on January 5, marks the second-highest price ever paid at the prestigious New Year auction, a highly anticipated event in Japan’s culinary world, as reported by AFP. 

The 276-kilogram tuna, roughly the size of a motorbike, was claimed by the Michelin-starred Onodera Group, a renowned sushi chain known for its lavish offerings. This purchase continues the group's remarkable dominance in the auction space, as they have claimed the top prize for five consecutive years. The winning bid also signals a strong recovery for the market, which saw a drop in auction prices during the pandemic as dining restrictions and public health measures dampened demand.

Shinji Nagao, a representative of the Onodera Group, spoke to reporters after the auction, emphasising the cultural significance of the tuna. "The first tuna is meant to bring in good fortune," he said. This sentiment reflects the broader tradition in Japan, where the first tuna of the year is seen as a symbol of prosperity and good luck, making the auction not only a gastronomic event but also a cultural ritual.

While the price of JPY207mn falls short of the all-time record of JPY333.6mn, set in 2019 for a slightly larger bluefin tuna, it still underscores the enduring appeal of this rare delicacy. That record bid was placed by Kiyoshi Kimura, known as the "Tuna King," who operates the Sushi Zanmai restaurant chain.

With the market returning to form, it’s clear that the allure of Japan’s most coveted fish remains strong, even in a post-pandemic world.

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