Sushi Chain Wins Guinness World Record for Purchasing the Most Expensive Tuna Sold at Auction

Kiyoshi Kimura, the owner of the renowned sushi chain Sushizanmai, has once again made headlines by purchasing the most expensive tuna in the world, setting a new Guinness World Record in the process. This milestone was achieved during the first fish auction of the year on January 5, 2026, in Koto, Tokyo. The massive bluefin tuna, weighing an impressive 535 pounds, was sold for an astounding ¥510,300,000, which is approximately $3.25 million.

The auction took place at Toyosu Market, where Kimura, often referred to as the “Tuna King,” has become somewhat of a legend for his extravagant fish purchases. This latest acquisition not only highlights Kimura’s commitment to quality but also reinforces his status in the sushi industry. The record-setting fish was caught off the coast of Oma in Japan’s Aomori Prefecture, a region known for its premium tuna.

Following the auction, Kimura was awarded a Guinness World Records certificate during a ceremony held on April 20 at Sushizanmai’s main location in Tsukiji. “We will continue to offer high-quality tuna next year and beyond,” Kimura remarked. His dedication to providing top-notch seafood is reflected in his willingness to invest heavily in securing the finest fish.

The record-breaking tuna was subsequently prepared and distributed across Sushizanmai’s numerous outlets throughout Japan, where customers could enjoy it as sushi. Interestingly, despite the fish’s hefty price tag, the sushi made from it was sold at regular market prices, demonstrating Kimura’s intent to keep high-quality sushi accessible to the public.

Kimura’s relationship with expensive bluefin tuna is not new; he has built a reputation for outbidding competitors for premium fish at annual auctions. His previous purchases include a 608-pound tuna for $1.8 million in 2020 and a 612-pound fish for $3 million in 2019. The latter purchase was also made during the first fish auction, indicating his consistent presence at this prestigious event.

In fact, Kimura’s history of high-profile tuna acquisitions dates back even further. He spent $118,000 on a 440-pound tuna in 2016 and purchased a 488-pound fish for $1.76 million in 2013. Each of these transactions has contributed to his nickname and has become a talking point around the annual auctions.

Despite the expense associated with these high-end fish, Kimura expresses a clear vision for his customers. “This is the best,” he told Agence France-Presse following the auction. “Yes, this is expensive, isn’t it? I want our customers to eat very tasty ones this year, too.” His resolve to prioritise quality in his offerings has evidently paid off, as his establishment continues to attract customers yearning for top-tier sushi.

As the culinary world continues to evolve, Kimura’s purchases bring attention to the bluefin tuna’s status as a delicacy while also sparking discussions about sustainability and conservation in seafood sourcing. Given the years of tradition behind sushi-making and the ongoing challenges facing fish populations, such extravagant purchases invite scrutiny and raise awareness about responsible consumption.

Moving forward, the sushi industry will undoubtedly keep an eye on Kimura’s future purchases as he continues to set high benchmarks for both fish prices and quality. As for Sushizanmai, the chain appears poised to maintain its focus on delivering exceptional sushi experiences to customers across Japan, regardless of the price tag of the fish being served.