In a jaw-dropping moment that’s become a New Year’s tradition, a Japanese businessman has made global headlines by purchasing a bluefin tuna for an eye-watering $3.1 million (¥450 million) at Tokyo’s Toyosu Fish Market.
The buyer, Kiyoshi Kimura, owner of the popular Sushi Zanmai restaurant chain, proudly claimed the prized fish not for profit — but for prestige and tradition.
“It’s not just about the tuna — it’s about showing respect to the ocean, the fishermen, and our customers,” Kimura said after the auction.
- Weight of fish: 278 kilograms
- Type: Pacific bluefin tuna, caught off the coast of Oma, Aomori Prefecture
- Auction: Toyosu Market’s annual first auction of the year
- Purpose: Prestige, publicity, and goodwill
- Previous records: Kimura also held the 2019 record with a $3.1 million purchase
The New Year’s auction is seen as a ceremonial start to the Japanese seafood industry’s calendar. While critics raise concerns about overfishing and sustainability, supporters argue the event helps highlight traditional practices and boost regional fishing economies.
The record-setting tuna will be served at no premium cost at Sushi Zanmai’s flagship location in Tokyo, drawing massive crowds hoping to taste the world’s most expensive sashimi — for the price of a regular order.
“It’s a gift to the public, a celebration of Japan’s seafood culture,” Kimura added.
This extravagant purchase reaffirms how, in Japan, the value of a single fish can go beyond money — it can be a statement of honor, heritage, and national pride.
