This article is contributed by Japan Culinary Arts Academy.
In Japan, Doyo no Ushi no Hi (the Day of the Ox) is a traditional occasion where people eat grilled eel (unagi) to combat the summer heat and fatigue. This custom dates back to the Edo period(1603–1868), when the famous scholar and inventor Gennai Hiraga suggested to an eel shop owner that he promotes eel as a remedy for summer exhaustion. His advice capitalized on the old belief that eating foods with the "u" sound, such as eel (unagi), udon, and ume (plum), during the hot summer months would provide strength and vitality.
Did you know there are also two distinct styles of preparing unagi? If you’re curious, check out our previous article: 'Unagi Kabayaki: Exploring the Differences Between Edo Style and Kansai Style.'
While summer is still far off, the tradition of eating unagi to promote health can also be a reminder of the power of nourishing, warming foods in the colder months. As winter settles in, hearty, flavorful dishes like eel can help restore energy and warmth, much like in the summer. Just as eel is enjoyed to beat the summer heat, it also offers comforting warmth during the colder months, making it a perfect choice for any season.
If you’re looking to experience this delicious tradition, here are three excellent spots in Japan where you can enjoy unagi.
Located in the heart of Nagatacho, next to the LDP office, Kitashirakawa offers Kyoto-style eel in a sophisticated setting. Their signature dish, Unagi Seiro-mushi (Steamed Eel in a Bamboo Basket), features grilled eel placed atop rice and steamed in a bamboo basket.
The grilling creates a crisp, caramelized exterior, while the steaming process ensures the eel stays tender and juicy. The result is a harmonious dish where the rich, smoky flavor of the eel infuses the soft rice, creating a comforting and flavorful meal.
Located in the vibrant Kichijoji neighborhood, offers a family-oriented and casual twist on unagi dining. The restaurant attracts a diverse crowd, including visitors returning from Ghibli Museum. Their unagi is perfectly grilled, boasting a smoky flavor that beautifully complements the rich, savory sauce. A unique highlight of the dining experience is meeting the elegantly dressed okami in a traditional kimono. She hails from the U.S. and married into the family as the third-generation owner's wife, adding a charming and personal touch to the restaurant’s history. The Shinozaki family has also gained attention through features on YouTube. The main branch of Shinozaki is located in Hachioji, which is a long-standing establishment with a history spanning 87 years.
Located in Kokura, Inaka-an is a renowned eel restaurant known for its exceptional preparation of fresh, domestic eel. The eel is perfectly grilled to create a crispy, caramelized exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside. The sauce for the grilled eel (kabayaki) is crafted using only the highest-quality, all-natural ingredients, such as ultra-premium soy sauce made from domestically sourced whole soybeans and pure rice mirin. No artificial flavors or chemical additives are used, ensuring an authentic and uncompromised taste. The restaurant’s rustic, traditional atmosphere reflects the deep-rooted cultural values of unagi cuisine, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic eel dining experience in Fukuoka Prefecture.
These restaurants not only provide an opportunity to enjoy the traditional Doyo no Ushi no Hi meal but also immerse you in the cultural significance of the custom. Whether you're looking for a traditional experience or a modern twist, these spots offer a taste of Japan's rich culinary heritage, perfect for celebrating the summer and experiencing the nourishing power of unagi—a dish that warms both body and soul, no matter the season.
Japan Culinary Arts Academy offers classes on Washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine) specifically designed for international students. Whether you're aspiring to become a certified Japanese cuisine chef or simply looking to master dishes like ramen, unagi, sushi, or yakitori, their programs provide an authentic and immersive learning experience. Visit their website for more details and start your culinary journey!
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