Giant bluefin tuna sells for shocking $1.3 million in Tokyo auction

In Japan, specifically at Tokyo's main fish market, a bluefin tuna weighing 608 pounds was auctioned for 207 million yen, which is approximately $1.3 million. This auction marked the beginning of the new year celebrations and took place on January 5, 2025. The Onodera Group, known for operating Michelin-starred sushi restaurants, was the top bidder at this prestigious event, a rank that signifies both success and a commitment to quality seafood. The auction is traditionally viewed as a significant event where the first tuna sold is believed to bring good fortune for the year ahead. This recent auction was noted as the second-highest price ever paid for a bluefin tuna during the opening auction in Tokyo since the data collection began in 1999. The previous year's auction saw the Onodera Group purchasing the top tuna for 114 million yen and last year’s prices were notably lower due to restrictions and changes in consumer behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the years preceding the pandemic, high-quality tuna typically commanded greater prices and attracted more bidders. The bluefin tuna sold on January 5, 2025, was roughly the size of a motorcycle and highlighted the ongoing interest and investment in premium seafood within Japan and globally. The auction's growth and the prices achieved reflect a combination of cultural significance, demand, and the dwindling supply of bluefin tuna, which has been affected by overfishing. In 2019, the highest price ever recorded for a tuna was 333.6 million yen for a slightly heavier fish, demonstrating the volatile nature of prices in fish markets. Despite being less than the highest historical price, this auction conveys a hopeful tone for the upcoming year. The Onodera Group's official, Shinji Nagao, expressed aspirations that people will enjoy the fresh tuna and have a blessed year. This sentiment highlights the cultural beliefs surrounding food and its association with fortune in Japan, particularly during significant celebratory periods.