Jan 13, 2026
Its got to be one soup and three dishes
Today, and the 13th of every month, is One Soup, Three Dishes Day (一汁三菜の日), dedicated to the traditional Japanese meal style ichiju‑sansai.
Ichiju-sansai means one soup and three dishes. The "sansai" usually contains a main dish called "shusai" and two side dishes, "fukusai", often vegetables. Rice and pickles may be served alongside though not counted in the "one soup, three dishes structure".
This balanced structure reflects the heart of Japanese home cooking, emphasizing nutrition, variety, and harmony. Furthermore, the day encourages families to rediscover the value of wholesome meals and pass on healthy food culture to future generations.

Former nickname was "Saitama". Changed it to save confusion on place review posts! Irish, 20+ years in Japan! I also write on my personal website: insaitama.com
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