Tuna Auction Market Guided Private Tour in Nachi-Katsuura

Wakayama Prefecture , Japan

Tuna Auction Market Guided Private Tour in Nachi-Katsuura

Active

(42 reviews)

40m - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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.

Available options

For solo traveler to book

Additional Participant

What's included

1 guide

Transfers to and from your accommodation on foot.

Detailed itinerary

\\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.

\\Local Breakfast Guiding (Optional)://
To wrap up, I will personally guide you to a local favorite restaurant. There’s no better way to end the tour than by tasting the very tuna you just learned about! (Please note: Breakfast cost is not included in the tour price).

What's not included

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!

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

42 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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

Meeting point

The guide will be waiting for you in front of a big tuna.

About Wakayama Prefecture

Wakayama Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic temples, and the famous Koyasan (Mount Koya) pilgrimage site. With its rugged mountains, scenic coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, Wakayama offers a unique blend of traditional and natural experiences.

Top Attractions

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

A sacred Buddhist monastery town and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its temples, graveyards, and pilgrimage routes.

Historical/Religious Full day to overnight Moderate to Expensive

Nachi Falls

One of Japan's tallest waterfalls, located near the Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine.

Nature Half day Free to view, fees for shrine and museum

Shirahama Beach

A popular beach resort area with white sand beaches, hot springs, and a scenic coastline.

Beach Full day Budget to Moderate

Kimii-dera Temple

A historic temple with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of Wakayama City.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Wakayama Castle

A reconstructed castle with a museum and beautiful gardens, offering insights into Wakayama's samurai history.

Historical 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Wakayama Beef

Tender and flavorful beef, often served as sukiyaki or grilled.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Katsuobushi

Fermented, smoked, and dried bonito fish, used to make dashi (stock) and eaten as a topping for various dishes.

Snack/Dish Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Meharizushi

A traditional sushi dish from the Kii Peninsula, made with vinegared rice and fresh seafood or vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian if made with vegetables.

Koyasan Shojin Ryori

Buddhist vegetarian cuisine served in Koyasan, made with seasonal vegetables and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kumano Beach activities in Shirahama Adventure World amusement park Hot spring baths in Shirahama Temple lodgings in Koyasan Beach relaxation in Shirahama Temple visits in Koyasan Shrine visits in Kumano

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Wakayama is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas, as weather conditions can change quickly.
• Carry a map or use a reliable navigation app, as some areas may have limited signage.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 80 km from Wakayama City

By train

Wakayama Station

By bus

Wakayama Station Bus Terminal, Osaka Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are efficient and punctual, with frequent services. The IC card (Suica, Icoca) can be used for seamless travel.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wakayama City Koyasan (Mount Koya) Shirahama Kumano

Day trips

Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls

80 km from Wakayama City • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a stunning waterfall and an ancient Shinto shrine.

Shirahama Beach and Adventure World

100 km from Wakayama City • Full day

A popular beach resort area with white sand beaches, hot springs, and an amusement park.

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

50 km from Wakayama City • Full day to overnight

A sacred Buddhist monastery town with temples, graveyards, and pilgrimage routes.

Festivals

Koyasan Fire Festival (Goman-no-Otaki) • March 12-15 Shirahama Summer Festival • July to August Wakayama Castle Festival • April 1-30

Pro tips

Stay overnight in a temple lodging (shukubo) in Koyasan for a unique cultural experience.
Visit Nachi Falls early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Try the local seafood in Shirahama, especially the fresh sushi and grilled fish.
Use an IC card (Suica, Icoca) for seamless travel on trains and buses in Wakayama and the Kansai region.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture.