Sushi Zanmai Breaks Record Buying $3.2 Million Bluefin Tuna

Kiyomura Corp., the company behind the renowned Sushi Zanmai restaurant chain, made headlines by purchasing a 536-pound bluefin tuna for $3.24 million at Tokyo’s first fish auction of 2026. The astronomical bid shattered the company’s previous record set in 2019, when owner Kiyoshi Kimura paid $2.1 million for premium tuna.

The “Tuna King” Strikes Again

Kiyoshi Kimura, affectionately known as the “Tuna King” in the seafood industry, expressed surprise at the final price but acknowledged he couldn’t resist the quality of the catch. The prized tuna was sourced from the prestigious fishing grounds off the coast of Oma in northern Japan, renowned for producing some of the world’s finest bluefin specimens. When Kimura spotted the fish, he decided to pursue it regardless of the cost, viewing the purchase as an auspicious investment for the new year.

Standard Pricing for Premium Fish

Despite the staggering per-pound cost of approximately $6,060, Kimura has committed to serving the exclusive tuna at standard menu prices across all Sushi Zanmai locations nationwide. This generous approach reflects his philosophy of sharing premium experiences with customers without inflating costs. Kimura described the purchase as “good luck” for 2026, suggesting his confidence that the investment will attract customers and enhance the restaurant’s reputation.

The record-breaking auction demonstrates the continued prestige of Tokyo’s New Year fish markets and the premium value placed on exceptional bluefin tuna in Japan’s culinary culture.