The first auction of 2026 at Tokyo's famed Toyosu fish market witnessed history being made, as a colossal bluefin tuna fetched an astronomical sum, instantly becoming the most expensive fish ever sold at the iconic New Year sale.
A Bid That Made History
Before sunrise on the auction day, the market floor was arranged with rows of giant, torpedo-shaped tuna, their tails sliced for inspection. The bidding, which began with the traditional ringing of a bell, quickly soared for a prime specimen. The winning bid of ¥510 million (approximately ₹28 to 29 crore) was placed by Kiyomura Corp, the company owned by the renowned "Tuna King" Kiyoshi Kimura. This price shattered Kimura's own previous record of ¥334 million (about ₹18-19 crore) set back in 2019.
Kimura, the face behind Japan's popular Sushi Zanmai restaurant chain, is no stranger to headline-grabbing purchases. However, he later confessed to reporters that the final price exceeded his expectations. "I was hoping it would be cheaper," he admitted with a smile. "But the price just kept climbing before I knew it."
The Prize Catch from Oma
The record-setting fish was a Pacific bluefin tuna weighing a massive 535 pounds (about 243 kilograms). It was caught in the waters near Oma in northern Japan, a region celebrated for producing the highest quality bluefin, which intensifies competition among buyers. Kimura praised the fish's exceptional quality, stating, "When I see a tuna this beautiful, I just can't stop myself. I haven't tasted it yet, but I know it's going to be incredible."
Following the auction, the giant tuna was transported directly to Sushi Zanmai's headquarters. It was expertly sliced and distributed to the chain's restaurants across Japan. In a surprising move, Kimura announced that despite the staggering cost, the sushi and sashimi made from this legendary fish would be sold to customers at the usual, standard prices.
More Than Just a Luxury Purchase
While the New Year auction at Toyosu is known for premium prices, this sale represents an extreme peak. The event underscores the immense cultural and culinary value placed on premium bluefin tuna in Japan. Beyond the spectacle, the story carries a note of ecological hope. Pacific bluefin tuna populations, once threatened by overfishing, are showing signs of recovery due to sustained conservation efforts.
Therefore, this ₹28-29 crore tuna is not merely a symbol of luxury but also a tentative beacon for the future sustainability of the species. It highlights a balance between high-stakes culinary tradition and the ongoing journey of marine conservation.
