A day for "furikake" in Japan

"Furikake" is a dry, savory seasoning sprinkled over warm rice, usually made from ingredients like seaweed, sesame seeds, dried fish or herbs. It adds both flavor and nutrition, and for many people in Japan it is a nostalgic addition to a bowl of rice.

Today, and May 6th annually, is Furikake Day in Japan. It is a commemoration created by the International Fukikake Association to honor Yoshimaru Suekichi, the Kumamoto pharmacist whose birthday falls on this date. And a man who is believed to have created an early form of fukikake by grinding fish bones then blending them with seaweed and sesame.

His product is recognized as the original commercial fukikake, but it was pitched as a practical supplement, that was given to soldiers during the war. After World War II the product shifted to a seasoning and it fast became popular with children and families nationwide. You can buy packets of "furikake" with different flavors in most supermarkets around Japan.

The photo in this post shows the entryway to a workshop where you can make your own original "furikake".