With the dawn of 2025, Tokyo has kicked off the New Year with excitement across various events, from high-profile sports signings to the renowned first tuna auction of the year.
On January 4, 2025, FC Tokyo made headlines by announcing their agreement with Brazilian defender Henrique Trevisan, marking his entry for the upcoming season. Born on January 20, 1997, Trevisan expressed enthusiasm for joining the team, stating, "I am very happy to be able to play with this team in the 2025 season as well. I want to do my best every day so I can be a strength for the team in the match!" His commitment underlines FC Tokyo's determination to strengthen their roster as they navigate the challenges of the new season.
Meanwhile, the traditional New Year's festivities were alive at Minori no Sato, located in Togane, with their anticipated "New Year’s Sale" also beginning on January 4. The event featured sustainable and eco-friendly products, including unique eco mugs and spoons made from repurposed coffee grounds, reflecting the venue’s commitment to reducing waste. Shoppers were treated to exclusive offers, such as specially curated boxes filled with local produce and popular souvenirs like peanuts and sake.
One standout offering was the "Minori Fukubako Oishisai Iroiro BOX," available for 3,000 yen, featuring assorted local goodies and limited to just ten units. This plan is part of the aim to attract visitors and promote regional products during the festive season.
But perhaps the most thrilling event inaugurated the New Year was the first tuna auction at the Toyosu fish market. Held around 5 a.m. on January 4, the auction generated heightened interest among traders and spectators alike. The highlight of the auction was the sale of a massive 276-kilogram bluefin tuna, caught off Oma’s coast in Aomori. This prized fish fetched 207 million yen, equivalent to approximately 1.3 million dollars, marking the second highest price recorded since data became available back in 1999. The record for the highest price remains at 333.6 million yen, set during the 2019 auction.
The energy of this day extended beyond just bids as it reflected Tokyo's vibrant market spirit at the start of the New Year, attracting both locals and tourists eager to partake in the festivities and witness the exceptional seafood offerings.
Alongside the tuna auction, January’s celestial events also graced the skies. Following the New Year, various moon phases and timings were detailed, highlighting key lunar events. These observations are particularly of interest as they set the stage for both personal reflection and celebration throughout the month.
2025 promises not only sporting new beginnings with Trevisan's addition to FC Tokyo but also continued cultural and culinary traditions, where local businesses like Minori no Sato stand out by promoting sustainability and community spirit. The lively atmosphere of the tuna auction reminds us of Japan's enduring connection to the sea and its tradition of culinary excellence.
At this confluence of new sporting ambitions, sustainable initiatives, and celebratory traditions, Tokyo is set for another remarkable year filled with promise and excitement, beckoning residents and visitors alike to engage with all it has to offer as the New Year unfurls.