Tuna Auction Market Guided Private Tour in Nachi-Katsuura
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
1. Discover the Art of Fresh Tuna Assessment
- Join a guided journey through Japan's premier port for fresh tuna landings.
- Go beyond the surface: Understand the criteria experts use for quality assessment and the intricate flow of the auction.
2. Uncover the Hidden Stories of the Tuna Community
- Did you know that no tuna fishermen actually live in this town?
- Discover what other professions are present here besides the buyers.
3. Explore the Sustainable Spirit of Nachi-Katsuura
- Learn about "Long-line Fishing"—a low-impact, environmentally friendly method that preserves the ocean's future.
- Discover why our tuna is "Fresh, Never Frozen" and how this traditional fishing method results in superior quality you can taste.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
\\The Live Auction & The People:// Witness the high-energy tuna auction right before your eyes! While you capture photos and videos of the impressive rows of tuna, I will introduce you to the different roles of the people working here—from the buyers to the market staff. Feel free to ask "What is that person doing?" or "How do they work together?" the moment the question pops into your head.
\\Deep Dive into Tuna Culture (Exhibition Room)// After the excitement of the port, we move to a specialized exhibition room. Using maps, illustrations, and videos, I will explain the "hidden stories" you can't see from the surface—such as our sustainable fishing methods, the town's history, and the deep connection between the sea and our community.
Options
For solo traveler to book
For solo traveler to book
Additional Participant
Additional Participant
What‘s Included
1 guide
Transfers to and from your accommodation on foot.
Transportation expenses such as taxis (if not travelling on foot.)
Not included in the tour price. However, if you're interested, your guide will gladly introduce you to a local favorite restaurant for a fresh tuna breakfast!
Pickup points
Hotel Urashima
1165-2 Katsuura, Nachikatsuura-cho Japan
MAGURO BLDG. by WhyKumano
7-6-25 Tsukiji Nachikatsuura-cho Japan
Kamenoi Hotel Nachi Katsuura
216-19 Katsuura, Nachikatsuura-cho Japan
Manseiro
448 Katsuura, Nachikatsuura-cho Japan
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
60 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Tuna time in Katsuura
Amateurallthingsfood,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stella gave us a fun and informative tour of the amazing tuna market. We learnt a lot about what is involved in the whole process of catching and selling the fresh tuna - not frozen - for which Katsuura is famous. Stella even organised a tuna bowl for us to take away as we had to run for our train. Possibly the best tuna sashimi I have ever had!
Insightful and fun experience
Darya W,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00amazing experience, highly recommend to anyone interested to find out more about Japanese culture, fishing practices and sustainability. Stella is knowledgeable and patient, she took the time to answer all kinds of questions. The individual tour experience gives you a unique opportunity to focus on the topics that most interest your group and follow your own timeline. I had a wonderful time and would certainly recommend to any visitors in the area.
An enjoyable Tuna Auction Tour with Stella Locals
98elkes,May 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We did the Tuna Auction Market Tour with Stella while visiting the beautiful seaside town of Kii-Katsuura, and we’re so glad we did. Her presentation and explanations of the process were well organized, informative, and ran so smoothly that it felt like we were talking with an old friend. We learned so much from environmentally conscious fishing practices to the auction process itself and the people behind it all. Stella is incredibly knowledgeable about the subject and answered our many questions with warmth and ease. We highly recommend the Fish Auction Tour with Stella Locals for anyone looking for an informative and memorable way to spend a morning in Kii-Katsura.
A must do in Kii-Katsuura
InesB662,May 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I did the tuna auction audio guided tour and I recommend it 100% if you're in Kii-Katsuura. It was one of the highlight of my stay there. It's a great option especially if you're a solo traveler. The platform is very user friendly and it has pictures on where to be located when you listen to each audio. The audios are short, to the point, give you enough information to follow the actual auction happening in front of you.The content was very useful to understand who are the buyers, what they do and why. I had the chance to have a chat with Stella at the end of the tour and ask my questions. I really appreciated her taking the time and explaining in further details the things I was curious about. Do take the breakfast option. After hearing all about the process and the auction, tasting fresh tuna was such a privilege!
Short and rich tour, unique experience
MammaNessa,May 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolute recommendation for this short but rich tour. I'm so glad we didn't just go to the fish market and observe the auction ourselves because we wouldn't understand anything. Having someone as knowledgeable and professional as Chizuko explain the details of the auction, teach us about different types of tuna, the way how tuna is caught and treated, tell us funny stories from the previous auctions... it was worth waking up so early! On the day we went, there were 2400 tunas at the auction - very impressive sight. If you happen to go to Nachikatsuura (the capital of tuna :)), I warmly recommend this tour.
Charm and knowledge in abundance
A8063LJmaria ,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely fabulous! Stella is super well prepared and knowledgable and gives insights into both historia and modern life in Kii-Katsura. Pure joy walking around with and visit several local food businesses while assembling ingrediens for a little picknick!
Dedicated and knowledgeable guided tours in Kii-Katsuura
936carl ,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stella is a fantastic guide. She gives concise information about Kii-Katsura’s ups and downs with passion, as well as the historical and socio-economic background. Visits to local shops and conversations with locals are extremely rewarding. A delicious lunch with local specialities and a crash course in furokoshi-tying.
Tuna Terrific!
nikkikU4459EM,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I went to the market independently the day prior, had no idea what was happening, so I reached out to Stella, and wow am I glad I did! Stella was already booked with another group, so I opted for her audio guide tour. Although I was hesitant because I really wanted a live guide, the audio tour was very informative and really pleasantly surprised me. I learned SO much about the tuna industry, cultural norms, and history of the tuna community here. It made the market experience so much richer and enjoyable. Stella was full of information, made herself available for several questions after the market, and is truly passionate about the industry here. I would highly encourage others to book her guide - both in person or audio, as it really made a huge difference of my market experience here. Thank you, Stella!
Memorable experience!
F5773QJmaudl,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had a fantastic experience with Stella in Nachi-Katsuura! The tour was not only insightful but also deeply authentic 🤗 Stella shares her knowledge and love for the region with so much warmth and care, which makes the whole experience very special! I particularly appreciated learning about the local tuna market and knowing that part of the tour contributes to supporting it in a respectful and sustainable way. It was a perfect balance of culture, discovery, and human connection. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the area. Thank you again, Stella, for such a memorable experience!
Do this tour! 🤯
sondram162,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stella is a true professional and knows her craft very well. She answered every question we asked, and the information she shared was immensely informative. I am so glad we did the tour.
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