[Wakayama Guide] Delicacies from the Sea – Exquisite Fresh Tuna from Nachikatsuura!

Have you ever tried tasty, chewy tuna? Today, we'll introduce you to an exceptional kind of fresh tuna caught in Nachikatsuura-- completely different from what you usually tried before!

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Roots of Japan

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What is Fresh Tuna?

Katsuura Port in Nachikatsuura Town is a naturally excellent harbor due to its unique geography: calm waves and deep waters make it easy for large vessels to dock. This port boasts the highest volume of fresh tuna landings in Japan.

But what exactly is “fresh tuna”?
Fresh tuna refers to tuna that is landed at the port without ever being frozen. In Nachikatsuura, tuna caught using a special method called *longline fishing* are immediately processed one by one by fishermen and stored in cold water at low temperatures, never frozen, before being brought to port.

" Katsuura Fishing Port Tuna Auction" Photo provided by Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

A Fishing Method That Minimizes Stress on Tuna

Longline fishing is practiced in Nachikatsuura.

This involves attaching many branch lines with hooks to a long main line. Each tuna is carefully caught one at a time and immediately processed, which minimizes stress and prevents the meat from heating up and triggering the deterioration.

The Fresh Tuna's Appeal

What is the difference between frozen tuna and fresh tuna?
The cells of frozen tuna are easily destroyed, and when thawed, blood (drip) comes out, which causes the odor.
On the other hand, raw tuna has its cells intact , so it has a chewy texture and no unpleasant odor.

In Nachikatsuura Town, rows of fresh tuna are lined up at the market from early in the morning, and experienced connoisseurs gather there in search of the highest quality tuna. We encourage everyone to try Nachikatsuura tuna!

"Tuna dishes" photo provided by Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

Written by

Roots of Japan

Wakayama

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