Tokyo, Japan – The first tuna auction of the new year at Tokyo’s famous Toyosu Market shattered historical records. This occurred after a bluefin tuna was sold for a staggering 510.3 million yen (approximately US$3.25 million).
Details of “The Goldfish”
This fish is considered the most expensive in the history of Japanese auctions, surpassing the previous record set in 2019. Its most prominent specifications are as follows: Weight: 243 kilograms.
Fishing location: Off the coast of Oma City in Aomori Prefecture, northern Japan, an area famous for having some of the best tuna in the world.
The buyer: Sushi Zanmai restaurant chain, which used to dominate New Year’s auctions.
A humanitarian goal and clever propaganda
Sushi Zanmai confirmed that paying this astronomical sum is not for direct profit. Rather, it carries two messages: supporting the fishing industry by encouraging local fishermen and appreciating their efforts in bringing in the finest fish.
The company stated that it would carve the fish at its flagship restaurant in central Tokyo this afternoon and distribute it to its various branches. To ensure the “standard tuna” reached as many people as possible, the chain announced it would sell it at the usual price. It also limited purchases to one fish per customer.
Why is the world interested in the tuna auction in Japan?
This auction is more than just a buying and selling transaction. In Japan, it’s considered an “economic indicator.” A high price for the first tuna of the year is often associated with positive expectations for Japanese economic growth and improved markets in the coming months.
A cultural tradition where the auction represents a celebration of the beginning of the new year and attracts global attention to Japanese tourism and cuisine.
