Nachikatsuura Fresh Tuna: Local Food Guide (Wakayama)

Where the Kuroshio current sweeps in, Nachikatsuura is a port town famed for landing fresh, longline caught tuna. Mornings at the market, lined with never frozen fish, brim with energy. It boasts one of the largest landings in the country of tuna brought in fresh, and is known as the town of fresh tuna.

Highlights

The impeccably fresh tuna shows many faces, from the clear savor of lean cuts to fat that melts on the tongue. Sashimi and marinated rice bowls are favorites, and locals also enjoy simmered head and dishes made from rare cuts. At the Nigiwai Ichiba market beside the harbor you can buy tuna directly and dine, savoring the flavors of many cuts at once.

Enjoying the Seasons

The richness of the fat shifts through the year, deepening as winter approaches. The lighter tuna of summer and the lush tuna of winter each carry their own seasonal appeal.

Access and Basic Information

From JR Kii Katsuura Station the eateries and market near the harbor are within walking distance. Some facilities let you watch the early morning auction, a fine addition to any journey. From the Osaka side it takes about three and a half hours from Tennoji Station on the JR limited express Kuroshio, so an itinerary combined with Nachi Falls and the Kumano Sanzan is recommended.

Practical Travel Notes

The tuna auction at Katsuura fishing port takes place in the early morning, and some facilities accept viewing tours or guided visits. Auction viewing often has set dates, times, and reservation rules, so check ahead if you wish to join. Harbor eateries and the market get busy at midday, and the famous tuna bowls can sell out, so an early visit is reassuring. Nachikatsuura is also known as a hot spring resort, ideal for an overnight trip pairing tuna dishes with a hot spring inn. The World Heritage Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine and Nachi Falls are nearby, making it an area that pairs well with sightseeing.

A Quick Tip

Try your first slice with nothing on it at all. Before the soy sauce sinks in, the natural sweetness of the raw tuna will surprise you. At the market you can find assortments that let you sample lean, medium fatty, and rare cuts little by little, perfect for a taste comparison.