Do the Japanese really eat poisonous fish?

I mean the blowfish or globefish. They call it fugu in Japanese. Eating this fish can be deadly, causing death by paralysis. The poison is contained in the liver and ovaries. These organs have to be removed by a licensed fugu shef. Then the fish is perfectly safe to eat and is considered a great delicacy.

Japanese eat fugu only in special fugu restaurants. You shouldn't eat fugu unless it's been prepared by a licensed fugu chef. Each year some people die from eating fugu that has been prepared by a non-professional.

It is expensive because training the chefs is expensive. They have to pass oral, written, and practical exams to get licensed. Your life can depend on their skill. Also, the presentation of the fugu sashimi is very elaborate - this adds to the excitement of eating it, and to the expense.