What is Unagi? Unagi, or freshwater eel, is more than just a popular dish in Japan; it holds a special place in Japanese culture. Known for its rich flavor and tender texture, Unagi has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s especially significant during the hot summer months when it’s believed to provide the energy needed to beat the heat.
Let’s dive into this cultural practice deeply rooted in Japanese society: how Japanese people enjoy Unagi, the traditional events like 土用の丑の日 (Doyō no Ushi no Hi), and how Unagi offers a delicious way to experience Japanese culture.
If you want to learn more about Japanese culture, please check out the article below.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: How to write Unagi in Japanese?
In Japan, the word “Unagi” is typically written in kanji as 鰻. However, you might also see it written in hiragana as うなぎ, especially on restaurant signs. Interestingly, because the shape of an eel resembles the hiragana character “う,” many restaurants creatively design their signs to mimic this shape.
| English | Kanji | Hiragana |
|---|---|---|
|
eel |
鰻 |
うなぎ |
Chapter 2: A Japanese Culinary Tradition
Unagi can be prepared in various ways and has been enjoyed in many forms for centuries. One of the most popular methods is grilling the eel and glazing it with a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sake, which enhances its natural flavor. Some restaurants take pride in their sauce by continuing to add to it over the years, preserving the traditional taste.
There are several popular ways to enjoy Unagi in Japan:
A. Kabayaki (蒲焼き)
The most common preparation method, where the eel is filleted, grilled, and coated with a special sauce.
B. Unadon (鰻丼)
A dish where Kabayaki-style eel is served over a bowl of rice.
C. Unajū (鰻重)
Similar to Unadon but served in a lacquered box, often with a more refined presentation.
D. Shirayaki (白焼き)
A method where the eel is grilled without any sauce, allowing you to enjoy the natural taste of the eel, often served with a sprinkle of salt or dipped in wasabi and soy sauce.
Chapter3: What is 土用の丑の日?
土用の丑の日 (Doyō no Ushi no Hi) is a traditional day in Japan with a long history. “土用” (Doyō) refers to the 18-day period before the start of each season: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. “丑の日” (Ushi no Hi) means the Day of the Ox, which is based on the 12-animal zodiac cycle and comes around every 12 days.
In 2024, 土用の丑の日 falls on January 26, April 19, May 1, July 24, August 5, and October 28. The most important of these is the summer 土用の丑の日, when there is a long-standing tradition of eating Unagi (eel). This practice has been followed for centuries as a way to stay healthy and energized during the hot summer months.
If you’re interested in learning more about the 12-animal zodiac cycle, please refer to the article below.
Chapter4: How Healthy is Unagi?
Unagi is packed with various nutrients that make it an excellent choice for staying healthy in the summer.
Here are some of the key nutrients found in Unagi:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B1
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
- EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Collagen
Among these, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, and Potassium are particularly effective in preventing summer fatigue. These nutrients help boost energy and support overall health, making Unagi a nutritious choice for overcoming the challenges of hot weather.
Chapter 5: Where to enjoy Unagi?
Unakiku Tokyo, Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
At the renowned Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo, a historic Japanese hotel, you can enjoy Unagi while overlooking its beautiful garden. In March 2023, the well-established Unagi restaurant “Unakiku” from Kikusuiro in Nara, which has been serving Unagi for over 130 years, opened within the hotel’s garden. If you’re looking to experience a long-standing Unagi tradition in Tokyo, this is the place to visit.
Source: Hotel Chizanso Tokyo
Nodaiwa
“Nodaiwa” is a historic Unagi restaurant that has been passed down through five generations. While preserving the traditional Edo-style grilling techniques, the restaurant has also expanded its presence to Paris, spreading the flavors of Japanese tradition. If you’re looking to enjoy Michelin-starred Unagi in Tokyo, this is the place to visit.
