Massive Bluefin Tuna sells for 8.50 crore at Tokyo’s Toyosu market, second-highest on record

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): The year kicked off with a remarkable event at Tokyo’s Toyosu Fish Market where a massive bluefin tuna weighing 276 kg (608 pounds) was sold for an eye-popping 207 million yen which is approximately ₹11 crore. This sale isn’t just about business—it's a tradition that holds deep cultural significance in Japan as the first tuna of the New Year is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity for the year ahead. Onodera Group a celebrated chain of Michelin-starred sushi restaurants won the bid continuing its tradition of securing the first tuna for five consecutive years. The purchase of this tuna is not just about securing a rare fish but about honoring a practice that symbolizes good luck and success. The 207 million yen (₹11 crore) paid this year is a significant jump from last year’s 114 million yen (₹6 crore) though it still falls short of the record set in 2019 by Kiyoshi Kimura also known as the "Tuna King," who paid 333.6 million yen (₹18 crore) for a tuna only slightly heavier.

While the auction is a business transaction it’s deeply rooted in Japanese culture. During the COVID-19 pandemic the Toyosu auction saw a dip in both excitement and prices as dining restrictions affected the restaurant industry. However this year’s auction showed renewed energy and competitive bidding signaling a recovery of Japan's economy and dining culture post-pandemic. For Onodera Group the purchase of the first tuna is more than a commercial decision; it is a cultural tradition that carries significant meaning. "Our wish is that people will eat this and have a wonderful year," said a company spokesperson emphasizing the symbolic power of the fish. The first tuna not only brings luck to the business that buys it but also extends those good wishes to everyone who will enjoy the sushi made from it. The Toyosu tuna auction is a celebration of Japan’s rich food traditions and its deep connection to the sea. While it marks the beginning of the year, it also serves as a reminder of Japan’s reverence for seafood, particularly bluefin tuna which is prized for making sushi. This event beautifully combines commerce with cultural significance highlighting the nation’s belief in the power of food to bring prosperity and good health. As Japan moves into the New Year the auction represents a fresh start and a collective hope for a successful and prosperous year ahead.