he Truth Behind the Record-Breaking 2026 Price and “How Much Is One Piece of Sushi?”
Every January, Tokyo’s Toyosu Market hosts the first tuna auction of the year, a tradition that symbolizes Japan’s food culture, good fortune, and craftsmanship.
This event is not simply a fish auction — it is a cultural ritual watched by the world.
2026: A New All-Time Record
In 2026, a bluefin tuna from Oma, Aomori (approx. 243kg) was sold for
¥510,300,000, the highest price ever recorded.
The winning bidder was
Sushi Zanmai, led by its famous owner Kiyoshi Kimura.
The first auction price is a ceremonial price, reflecting celebration, publicity, and tradition — not normal market value.
Recent Record Prices at the First Tuna Auction
| Year | Price | Buyer |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | ¥333.6 million | Sushi Zanmai |
| 2024 | ¥114.24 million | Yamayuki × Onodera |
| 2025 | ¥207 million | Yamayuki × Onodera |
| 2026 | ¥510.3 million | Sushi Zanmai |
“How Much Is One Piece of Sushi?” — The Missing Point
Many people ask:
“How much would one piece of sushi cost?”
The key factor often ignored is yield.
The Importance of Yield
Only about 45–55% of a whole bluefin tuna can be used for sushi.
Skin, bones, bloodline, and internal parts are removed.
In high-end sushi restaurants, around 50% yield is realistic.
Calculating the Real Price Per Piece (2026)
Assumptions
- Price: ¥510.3 million
- Weight: 243kg
- Yield: 50%
- One piece of sushi: 20g
Result
- Edible meat: ~121.5kg
- Approx. 6,075 pieces
- ≈ ¥84,000 per piece
The True Meaning of the First Auction Price
| Calculation Method | Price per Piece |
|---|---|
| Without yield | ~¥42,000 |
| With yield (realistic) | ~¥84,000 |
This is not about cost —
it represents tradition, pride, and respect for craftsmanship.
Why We Consider Yamayuki Special
— Our Perspective at Sushi Shutatsu —
The following reflects our own perspective at Sushi Shutatsu.
Among the many tuna wholesalers in Toyosu,
one company we personally hold in very high regard is
Yamayuki.
This is not simply because of record-breaking auction prices.
From a sushi chef’s point of view, what stands out to us is:
- The balance and quality of toro
- The condition of the bloodline
- Stability during aging
- And ultimately, how much of the tuna can truly be used for sushi
Even when two tuna weigh the same and cost the same,
the amount and quality of sushi they yield can be very different.
We feel that Yamayuki approaches tuna with this exact understanding.
That mindset is what makes them exceptional — at least in our eyes.
This is, of course, our own opinion as Sushi Shutatsu,
but it is one based on respect for craftsmanship and experience.
Our Philosophy at Sushi Shutatsu
At Sushi Shutatsu,
tuna is the heart of sushi.
While first-auction tuna represents a dream, our mission is simple:
To serve exceptional tuna
at the right price
in its best possible condition
That is the true spirit of sushi.
If you’re visiting Tokyo and looking for an authentic sushi experience, we invite you to enjoy a carefully crafted omakase at Sushi Shutatsu in Ogikubo.
Our chef prepares each piece using traditional Edo-style techniques, premium ingredients from Toyosu Market, and warm Japanese hospitality.
We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the true taste of Tokyo sushi.
