Tuna Day (Maguro no Hi)

What Is Tuna Day?

October 10th is "Tuna Day." It's based on the tradition that the poet Yamabe no Akahito, who appears in the Man'yoshu (Japan's oldest poetry anthology), composed a poem about tuna fishing at Nachi-no-ura in Wakayama Prefecture—a poem said to have been written on October 10th. The anniversary was established in 1986 by the National Federation of Japan Tuna Fisheries Co-operative Associations.

Why Is October 10th "Tuna Day"?

A poem in the Man'yoshu by Yamabe no Akahito describes the tuna fishing scene at Nachi-no-ura. This poem is said to have been composed on October 10th, and the anniversary was established to promote tuna culture in its honor.

• Man'yoshu connection: The day Yamabe no Akahito is said to have composed his poem about tuna fishing at Nachi-no-ura.
• Established in 1986: By the National Federation of Japan Tuna Fisheries Co-operative Associations.
• Purpose: To spread awareness of tuna's appeal and the culture of tuna fishing.

What Is Tuna?

Tuna is an essential fish in Japanese food culture, used in everything from sashimi and sushi to a wide range of other dishes.

• Main species: Bluefin tuna, southern bluefin tuna, bigeye tuna, yellowfin tuna, albacore, and more.
• Characteristics: Flavor varies by cut—lean meat (akami), medium-fatty (chutoro), and fatty (otoro).
• Fishing methods: Pole-and-line, longline, and purse seine fishing.

The Appeal and Nutrition of Tuna

Tuna is prized not only for its flavor but also for its high nutritional value.

• DHA and EPA: Essential fatty acids that support overall health.
• High in protein: An important nutrient source for building the body.
• Iron: Lean (akami) tuna is rich in iron.

Interesting Facts About Tuna Day

• Nachi-no-ura: A region with a long history of tuna fishing.
• Japan's tuna culture: Japan is one of the world's largest consumers of tuna.
• The first auction of the year: The first tuna auctions of the year at the Tsukiji and Toyosu markets attract attention every year.
• Sustainability: Resource management and sustainable fishing practices have become increasingly important in recent years.

Tips for Enjoying Tuna Day

• Visit a sushi restaurant or seafood bowl shop and compare lean, medium-fatty, and fatty cuts.
• Learn about the fishing methods and history behind tuna.
• Try making tuna steak or a marinated tuna rice bowl at home.
• Look for fresh tuna at your local fish market or seafood shop.

A Day to Feel the Bounty of the Sea and the Work of the People Behind It

"Tuna Day" on October 10th is a chance to savor the appeal of tuna, a fish that's central to Japanese food culture. Enjoy its seasonal flavors and rich history.