Yumin・Chirashi Sushi・Japan

Name： Yumi Oriahara

Faculty/Year : 2nd year, Faculty of Letters

Hometown： Japan (Oita Prefecture)

Hobbies and Interests : Loves to sightseeing!

Q: Please share with us about Oita Prefecture!

A: I lived in Oita prefecture which is in the Kyushu region of Japan.

I usually travel by airplane at Oita Airport. Since it's quite far away, it was really tiring sometimes!

Q: Let’s introduce to us the cuisine, Chirashi Sushi!

A: Chirashi Sushi is a dish that is eaten in Japan at the Hina Matsuri which is Doll festival (Girl's Day) on March 3rd.

It is similar to mixed rice which has a gorgeous appearance. Chirashi Sushi can be eaten à la carte, however, soup is often served with it. Besides, there is also Hina-arare (Colourful rice cake cube), which is a snack that is often eaten during the Doll Festival (Girl’s Day).

Q: It is said that Chirashi Sushi has a special meaning, but please do share with us in detail!

A: The ingredients of Chirashi Sushi each have their own particular meaning.

Shrimp will bend when boiled, hence, it has the meaning of wishing for longevity. This could be wishing them to become grandmas and live long and healthy until their hips bend. Next, the lotus root has big holes when you look into it. Therefore, it means that you can look far into the future. In addition, it also means that you could work diligently and have a great career.

Q: Please share with us your memories of this cuisine, Chirashi Sushi!

A: When I was a little kid, I remember I would observe and help my mom make Chirashi Sushi.

As the Doll festival (Girl's Day) is an event to wish for the growth of girls, my family celebrates it every year and we make Chirashi Sushi every year at my house.

Q: Have you tasted before in any restaurant that sells amazingly delicious Chirashi Sushi?

A: Frankly speaking, Chirashi Sushi is not something you usually eat at a restaurant!

Frankly speaking, Chirashi Sushi is not something you usually eat at a restaurant, generally, it is s homemade cuisine. However, Chirashi Sushi’s half-done ingredients are being sold at Japanese supermarkets, so it's easy to make!

Q: Is there a recommended place to visit and have fun in Japan?

A: There's a place called Yufuin Town (Onsen hot spring town) in Oita Prefecture which is a good spot!

Highly recommended this place because there are many shops on Yunotsubo Street and there is a free footbath. In Beppu City, there is a food called Jigoku Mushi (literally “hell-steaming”), which is mainly steaming ingredients cooked with hot spring steam, so please try it when you go.

Q: Lastly, a message to our recipe book readers!

A: Japan is a very nice place!

So if you are an international student who hasn't come yet, I hope you will know and enjoy the goodness of Japan when you come!