Aburatsu, in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, flourished during an unprecedented tuna boom in the early Showa period (1926–1989). From spring to early summer, tuna riding the Kuroshio Current arrived in the waters off the coast, and annual landings reportedly reached between 4,000 and 8,000 tons.
At the height of the boom, as many as 600 fishing vessels from around Japan gathered at the port. The catch was so abundant that the market could not accommodate all the tuna brought ashore. It is said that the fish were even piled up along the quayside while awaiting auction.
Although Aburatsu is no longer as bustling as it was during those prosperous years, tuna fishing still takes place in the waters nearby. The town retains the atmosphere of a traditional fishing port, where visitors can enjoy its historic streets while discovering its connection to the local fishing industry.
A morning market is held early on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. Visitors can purchase fresh tuna there, making it a good opportunity to experience the local seafood culture.
When visiting Aburatsu, take time to stroll through the atmospheric port town and stop by the morning market if your visit coincides with its schedule. It offers a chance to enjoy the fresh catch of the area while recalling the town’s remarkable history as one of Japan’s tuna-fishing centers.