Savor Fresh Tuna
at Nachi Katsuura
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Nestled along the southern coast of Wakayama Prefecture, Nachikatsuura is a hidden gem where the bounty of the sea thrives, thanks to the powerful Kuroshio Current. This unique geographical feature brings in nutrient-rich waters, making it one of the best fishing grounds for migratory fish. The freshness of the tuna caught in Katsuura is preserved through careful handling processes that ensure the highest quality, which is essential for the exceptional taste and texture of the fish. One of the most critical steps in maintaining that freshness is “ikejime process” — a traditional and humane method of dispatching the fish immediately after it's caught.

The Katsuura Fishing Port in Nachikatsuura, is famous for its longline fishing technique, which is used to catch the region's prized tuna, including bluefin tuna. A longline is a long line with fishing line suspended every few tens of meters. The longline fishing method, — fishing line suspended every few tens of meters, where it is left unattended for a period before being retrieved to catch tuna. In response to concerns over the overfishing of bluefin tuna, this method gained attention for its ability to selectively catch fish, helping to prevent overcatch and support sustainable fishing practices.

For a truly exceptional tuna experience in Katsuura, we highly recommend visiting the Katsuura Local Wholesale Market, where you can admire rows of freshly caught tuna, showcasing the finest catches of the day. By joining a guided auction tour, you will have the opportunity to experience the excitement of the auction firsthand, while also gaining valuable insights into the different types of tuna, how to distinguish between them, how to judge their quality, and the auction process itself. Additionally, you will learn what makes Kii-Katsuura fresh tuna so exceptional and delicious. Furthermore, as part of the tour, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring fresh raw tuna, allowing you to savor its exquisite flavor right from the morning.