Bluefin Tuna Sells for Unprecedented Sum of $3.2 million at Tokyo Auction
A massive 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 opening auction of the new year.
The top bid for the 243-kilogram fish was submitted by the parent firm of a nationwide sushi chain, which runs outlets throughout Japan and internationally.
"An inaugural tuna heralds good luck," remarked the entrepreneur, a notable figure at the traditional new year's auction.
Known as the Tuna King, this entrepreneur is noted for submitting substantial bids for bluefin tuna at these high-profile new year auctions.
Auction Surprise and Record-Setting Precedent
Following the auction, the winner admitted to reporters that he was "astonished at the amount," noting, "I expected we would be able to purchase it a little at a lower price, but the price soared in no time."
This latest acquisition surpasses his previous historic purchases:
- He bid 56.5 million yen away in 2012.
- He spent 155 million yen a year later.
- In 2019, he won a tuna for 333.6 million yen (2.1 million dollars).
Even after previously saying that he thought he "did too much," he has now gone on to surpass his personal record another time.
A Tradition of Exorbitant Bids
The inaugural auction at the Tokyo fish market is typically associated with exceptionally high prices. Last year, the first tuna was purchased for 207 million yen by another sushi chain operator, which indicated the fish would be served at its eateries throughout the country.
The frenetic activity at the fish market during these early morning auctions has become a major event in Tokyo. Monday's auction, which commenced around 05:00 local time, was no different.
From Auction to Plate
The record-priced tuna was quickly prepared for customers at the winner's sushi establishments soon after the auction was finished.
"I feel like I've started the year in a positive way after tasting something so auspicious as the year gets underway," said one satisfied patron.