A bulky Pacific bluefin tuna created waves at the Toyosu fish market this Monday, garnering a historic bid of 510.3 million yen ($3.2m; £2.4m) during the market's first auction of the calendar year.
The winning offer for the 243-kilogram fish came from the parent firm of a nationwide sushi chain, which operates outlets throughout Japan and abroad.
"The first tuna brings good luck," commented the business owner, a familiar bidder at the annual first sale.
Dubbed the Tuna Tycoon, this industry figure is renowned for submitting substantial bids for premium bluefin tuna at these symbolic new year auctions.
After the auction, the winner informed the press that he was "surprised at the amount," adding, "I expected we would be able to acquire it a little at a lower price, but the price skyrocketed in no time."
This most recent acquisition exceeds his previous historic purchases:
Despite previously remarking that he thought he "overdid it," he has now proceeded to break his own record once again.
The inaugural auction at the Tokyo fish market is traditionally known for sky-high prices. The previous year, the initial tuna was bought for 207 million yen by a different food company, which announced the fish would be served at its restaurants across Japan.
The frenetic atmosphere at the fish market during these early morning auctions has transformed into a major event in Tokyo. Monday's auction, which began around 05:00 local time, was no exception.
The multi-million-dollar tuna was quickly processed for patrons at the winner's sushi chains soon after the auction was finished.
"I feel like I've begun the year in a good way after eating something so auspicious as the year gets underway," said one satisfied customer.
Elara is a seasoned gaming journalist with a passion for slot mechanics and player strategies.
