Hijiki for long life

You may know that today, September 15th 2025, is Respect for the Aged Day in Japan. But did you know it is also Hijiki Day!? Hijiki is a black fibrous seaweed that is very popular in Japan. We use it almost daily in our cooking. It can be added to soups, stews and many other dishes, or just used as a topping on rice, as well as several other options, to add not just flavor, but nutrition too. 

There is a saying that "eating hijiki will make you live longer". And with Japan's record number of centenarians there may well be some truth in that! The date for "Hijiki day" was purposely chosen to be shared with Respect for the Aged day due to the popularity of the food and the belief it contributes to longevity.  

Mie Prefecture Hijiki Cooperative Association established "Hijiki Day" in 1984 and association has been holding the "Hijiki Festival" since 1985 to promote the day. Ise hijiki is donated to welfare related organizations and the Respect for the Aged Association of surrounding municipalities on this day annually.