Pacific Bluefin Tuna Commands Record Bid of $3.2m at Japanese Capital Auction
A bulky bluefin tuna caused a stir at the Tokyo's Toyosu fish market this Monday, garnering a historic bid of 510.3 million yen ($3.2 million; £2.4m) during the venue's first auction of the calendar year.
The top bid for the 243-kilogram fish was submitted by the operator of a nationwide sushi chain, which operates restaurants throughout Japan and internationally.
"The first tuna brings fortune," remarked the entrepreneur, a regular participant at the yearly January sale.
Known as the Tuna Tycoon, this businessman is famous for making high bids for premium bluefin tuna at these auspicious new year auctions.
Bidding Surprise and Record-Setting Past
After the auction, the successful bidder told the press that he was "taken aback at the amount," stating, "I believed we would be able to acquire it a little for less, but the price soared in no time."
This most recent purchase exceeds his previous notable purchases:
- He bid 56.5 million yen back in 2012.
- He bid 155 million yen the following year.
- In 2019, he won a tuna for 333.6 million yen (2.1 million dollars).
Despite once saying that he thought he "overdid it," he has now proceeded to break his personal record another time.
A Tradition of High Prices
The first auction at the Tokyo fish market is notoriously known for exorbitant prices. In the prior year, the first tuna was bought for 207 million yen by another culinary group, which stated the fish would be served at its locations nationwide.
The high-energy energy at the fish market during these early morning auctions has become a must-see tourist attraction in Tokyo. Monday's auction, which commenced around 05:00 local time, was no exception.
From Auction to Plate
The record-priced tuna was promptly prepared for diners at the winner's sushi establishments immediately after the auction was finished.
"I believe like I've commenced the year in a positive way after consuming something so lucky as the year gets underway," remarked one happy customer.
