Experience a unique morning in Katsuura, home to Japan’s top fresh tunamarket. This 3-hour guided private tour takes you beyond sightseeing, offering an insider’s look at the tuna auction, a historical town walk, and a breakfast picnic featuring local specialties. Start your day at the lively tuna auction, where expert buyers carefully assess each tuna before bidding. Watching this process up close, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the skill and dedication involved in Katsuura’s tuna trade.

After the auction, explore the town’s history, tracing its journey from the 1930s to today. Take a moment to unwind in a footbath, a symbol of Katsuura’s long-standing hot spring culture. Strolling through the shopping streets, your guide will take you to handpicked local shops, where you’ll pick up a local breakfast—just like the locals do.

The tour concludes with a breakfast picnic at a scenic spot, where you’ll enjoy freshly bought local delicacies while soaking in the beauty of Katsuura. (In case of rain, breakfast will be served in a cozy guesthouse lounge.)

Join this tour to experience the real essence of Katsuura—its people, traditions, and flavors—all in one unforgettable morning.

【Itinerary】

Meet your guide

Meet your guide at the ticket gate of Kii-Katsuura station at 7:00 AM. Your guide will be waiting for you there with a sign board

Tuna Auction Tour

Witness the lively tuna auction at Japan’s top fresh tuna market.Learn how buyers carefully assess each tuna before bidding. Experience the energy of the market as deals are made in seconds.

※ Please note that the tour does not include access to the second-floor viewing area shown in the second photo above

Katsuura Port & Bindama（Glass Float）Street

Step back to the 1930s, when this lively port was the heart of Katsuura. Tuna boats filled the harbor, sailors spent their days here before setting sail, and families stayed in Onsen inns to send them off. Through vintage photos, we’ll trace the town’s changing times—from its bustling fishing industry to its rise as a popular honeymoon destination.

Foot Bath “Maguro-no-yu” Break

Take a moment to relax in a warm Onsen foot bath. After walking through Katsuura’s vibrant past, let’s pause and appreciate what has remained unchanged through the ages—its Onsen. Enjoy the warmth as your guide shares the charm of Katsuura’s Onsen and insights into the town today.

Hondori & Izakata Street Shopping

Browse local shops where your guide regularly shops and pick out your own breakfast, just like the locals do. Along the way, discover shops run by young entrepreneurs who are working hard to revitalize the town.

Breakfast Picnic with a view

Savor a fresh, locally sourced breakfast made from the items you picked up during the town walk, at one of your guide’s favorite spots. (The location will be chosen based on the weather—for a perfect view on a sunny day or a cozy guesthouse lounge if it rains.)

Tour Ends

The tour will ends around 10:00 AM at a central location in Katsuura.

＜ Cancellation Policy ＞

・Free: Up to 3 days before the tour.

・30%: 2 days before.

・50%: 1 day before.

・100%: On the day of the tour.

※ If the tour is canceled by the organizer, a full refund will be provided.