As autumn settles in, Japan’s Shizuoka Prefecture heralds the return of its celebrated Sakura shrimp with the opening of its first autumn auctions. These cherry-blossom pink crustaceans, emblematic of Suruga Bay, are a culinary delight that commands attention not just locally, but also across the nation’s dining tables.

Delayed by Nature

The commencement of the fall fishing season on Monday came after an unexpected delay due to inclement weather. However, determined fishers gathered at two ports in the prefecture, eager to unveil their catch. A lively atmosphere enveloped the Yui fishing port as approximately 30 buyers flitted about the auction floor, inspecting the prized shrimp for size and hue by the early light of dawn.

This year, the auction presented approximately 2.3 tons of freshly caught Sakura shrimp—a significant increase of 1.1 tons from last year’s inaugural day. Despite auction prices showing a slight dip, averaging around JPY 75,000 (USD 490) per 15-kilogram case, the surge in available quantities points to a slow but promising recovery for the local fishery.

Signs of Recovery

In recent years, the shrimp population had suffered under the strain of poor catches. Yet, optimism prevails among local fishers, thanks in part to cooperative initiatives that limit the harvesting of juvenile shrimp. Miyahara Junichi, the head of the Yui port’s fisheries cooperative, noted that while current temperatures remain warmer than usual, the seasonal shift is anticipated, bringing with it the true essence of the autumn catch.