This Port Town Serves Some of the Best Tuna in Japan

If you're a tuna lover (or just love fresh, local food experiences), add Nachi-Katsuura to your Japan itinerary. This coastal town in Wakayama Prefecture, a few hours south of Osaka, is known for catching and serving up some of the best tuna in the country—and it’s been doing so sustainably since the mid-18th century.

Tuna Everywhere — And We Mean Everywhere

Nachi-Katsuura is tuna heaven. The entire town leans into its claim to fame with colorful tuna-themed street signs and banners, cheerful mascots, and even tuna-shaped souvenirs.

Our day started with a visit to the local tuna auction, where we got to watch massive, glistening fish being hauled in and bid on by local vendors. Right next door is the tuna food hall, which sells everything from fresh tuna meals to tuna plush toys and snacks.

We went for the BBQ grilled tuna shoulder—tender, smoky, and easily one of the most delicious tuna dishes we’ve had anywhere.

Unique Tuna Dishes You Can Only Get Here

The creativity of tuna-based meals in this town is incredible. Here are a few of our must-try dishes:

• Tuna Cutlets from Bodai – crispy on the outside, juicy and rich inside

• Tuna Pizza at Kitchen Nicori – fresh, cheesy, and surprisingly balanced

• Tuna Bacon and Tasting Menu at Katsuragi – for the adventurous foodie, they offer full tasting experiences, including a whole tuna cutting show
   

Our tip? Don’t hold back. Skip the decision fatigue and just go for the full tuna tasting menu—you won’t regret it.

If you're looking to get out of the city for a couple of days and want a food experience that's uniquely Japanese, Nachi-Katsuura is the place to go. It's low-key, hyper-local, and full of flavor—both in its meals and its charm.

We stopped counting after 17 mentions of “tuna,” but honestly, that still doesn’t do this town justice.

Save this post for your Japan trip and come hungry.