August 8th: A Fitting Day for a Eight-Legged Creature

Among the scores of anniversaries, commemorations and observances on August 8th annually is Octopus Day タコの日 in Japan. The choice of date for the anniversary will come as no surprise; octopuses have eight legs so what better day to celebrate them than the 8th day of the 8th month!

There is another Octopus Day on July 2nd too. That one is linked to Kansai's "hangesho" traditon of eating octopus. Meanwhile, the August 8th commemoration is tied to Mihara Town, an area known as a major octopus-producing area. They even hold an annual octopus memorial service to show respect for the sea and gratitude for the harvest that has supported the region for generations.

Octopus is very popular in Japan and is the star of the beloved "tako-yaki". But it can also be enjoyed in many different ways, such as sashimi, tempura, shabu‑shabu, simmered dishes, takomeshi, and even in snacks, such as Sanriku's octopus crackers.

How do you like your octopus!?