Katsuura Fishing Port and Tuna Auction
Witness one of Japan's largest tuna auctions at Katsuura Fishing Port, a vibrant hub of fresh seafood and coastal life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the tuna auction action
Katsuura Fishing Port and Tuna Auction
Best Time
See the tuna auction action
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness one of Japan's largest tuna auctions at Katsuura Fishing Port, a vibrant hub of fresh seafood and coastal life.
"A must-see if staying in Katsuura town, wake early and catch the action before 7 AM!"
🎯 Arrive Before Sunrise
The tuna auction starts before 7 AM. Get there early to secure a good viewing spot!
🚫 No Entry to Auction Area
Strict hygiene rules mean visitors can't enter auction or fish display areas.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 29 reviews
Type
Transit station
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Katsuura Tuna Auction
Katsuura Fishing Port
Witness the bustling pre-dawn tuna auction, a vibrant display of Japan's prized seafood.
Fisherman's Wharf
Adjacent to the port
Explore shops and restaurants offering the freshest seafood, a true taste of the ocean.
Free Foot Spa
Near the jetty
Relax and rejuvenate with a complimentary foot spa while enjoying the port views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Wake Up Early for the Tuna Auction
Know the Auction Schedule
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Recommendations: Quiet & Small Coastal Town or Village
My partner and I are planning a trip at a later date probably in the fall (next couple of years). We've been conversing about what activities or items would we like to do on this upcoming trip. One of the thing he would really love to do is find a small coastal village or town…
🎯 Arrive Before Sunrise
The tuna auction starts before 7 AM. Get there early to secure a good viewing spot!
🚫 No Entry to Auction Area
Strict hygiene rules mean visitors can't enter auction or fish display areas.
🚶♀️ Explore the Wharf
After the auction, wander the Fisherman's Wharf for fresh seafood and local goods.
🚢 Free Boat to Hotel Urashima
Take a free boat ride to Hotel Urashima for a day trip and hot springs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before Sunrise
The tuna auction starts before 7 AM. Get there early to secure a good viewing spot!
🚫 No Entry to Auction Area
Strict hygiene rules mean visitors can't enter auction or fish display areas.
🚶♀️ Explore the Wharf
After the auction, wander the Fisherman's Wharf for fresh seafood and local goods.
🚢 Free Boat to Hotel Urashima
Take a free boat ride to Hotel Urashima for a day trip and hot springs.
🎣 Rent Fishing Gear
Rent a fishing set for just 1000 yen and try your luck at catching some fish.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible tuna auction, calling it a must-see for its vibrant atmosphere and impressive display of fresh catches. The opportunity to fish and enjoy the free foot spa adds to the charm. However, some note that signage could be improved for non-Japanese speakers, and the museum displays could be updated.
"Note: It's closed on Saturdays
Great spot to see the biggest tuna fish auction and how fresh these fishes are loading out from fishing boats, weigh and labelled and discussed in groups. Stay at Marugo hostel that is just next to the port and Lawson's and can see scene from room window as shown. Time taken is before 6.30am."
Suze Ng
"Must see if staying at Katsuura town, just wake early, catch the action befire 7am best and then either hang around jetty for free foot spa and have cafe breakfast around or at the Fisherman's Wharf. Museum is up a staircase ajoining both buildings. There's another staircase that leads up to the viewing gallery. Pity there isn't much signages for visitors, especially non-Japanese speaking ones. Do not try to enter into auction or fish display areas as hygiene is strict for unsterislize footwears. Rusting beams and museum display can be improved even though the information is great."
SuzseQ “RedDotter” Ng
"The water is clear and there are lots of fish!
The footing is good, so you can fish at your own pace!
Many tuna fishing boats dock here.
Due to the rain, we only had a little over two hours, but we managed to take five pictures, including one that was 28cm long."
真仁PRO
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Katsuura Fishing Port is accessible by train. The nearest station is Kii-Katsuura Station, which is a short walk from the port. If driving, there are parking facilities available, though they can fill up quickly during peak times.
Yes, Katsuura is often described as a quiet and charming coastal town, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere away from bustling cities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Viewing the tuna auction is generally free, but it's an active market. Visitors are typically allowed to observe from designated areas.
The port itself is active early in the morning for the tuna auction. Shops and restaurants at the Fisherman's Wharf have their own operating hours, usually extending into the afternoon. The auction is closed on Saturdays.
No, due to strict hygiene regulations, visitors are not permitted to enter the auction or fish display areas.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities
Yes, you can rent fishing gear for around 1000 yen and enjoy fishing at your own pace. The footing is good, and the water is clear with plenty of fish.
You can take a free boat to Hotel Urashima for a day trip to enjoy their hot springs. There's also a free foot spa near the jetty for relaxation.
📸 📸 Photography
The bustling tuna auction is a prime subject. Also, capture the many tuna fishing boats docked at the port, the vibrant atmosphere of the Fisherman's Wharf, and the scenic coastal views.
While general photography is allowed, be mindful of the active market environment during the auction. Avoid intrusive photography that might disturb the auctioneers or workers.
Social
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