The Story Behind "Kaeshi sushi" and Chirashi sushi Day

"Chirashi sushi" literally means,In the vinegared rice or on top of the vinegared rice,Various ingredientsThis refers to "scattered" sushi. Unlike nigiri sushi or maki sushi, it's a simple sushi that can be made by simply putting vinegared rice in a bowl and adding toppings as desired, so it's often eaten at home.

The ingredients used vary depending on the region, which makes it very interesting.

1. June 27th is Chirashi Sushi Day

June 27th is celebrated as "Chirashi Sushi Day" in Japan. This special day is deeply connected to the historical sushi culture of present-day Okayama Prefecture (formerly known as the Bizen province). It is inspired by a unique style of chirashi sushi called "Kaeshi-sushi" (Upside-Down Sushi), which was born out of a policy enacted by the Edo-period feudal lord, Ikeda Mitsumasa. In fact, the anniversary of his death became the official date for Chirashi Sushi Day.

Kaeshi-sushi is a traditional, local sushi that has been passed down in Okayama since the Edo period, and it is a fascinating variation of chirashi sushi. At first glance, it looks like a very plain dish—just a bowl of white rice, or rice with only a single ingredient on top. However, when you flip the container upside down and remove the lid, it reveals a lavish layer of fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea and other premium ingredients hidden beneath!

The reason people eat it upside down is directly linked to the strict sumptuary laws (frugality ordinances) enacted by Ikeda Mitsumasa.

It is said that these laws were implemented due to severe financial difficulties caused by a massive famine, combined with Mitsumasa’s deeply held Confucian beliefs that samurai and citizens should live modest, simple lives.

Forced to live under these strict limitations, the local people came up with a clever loophole. They would pack an abundance of delicious ingredients at the very bottom of a jubako (multi-tiered food box) and completely cover them with rice to hide them from the prying eyes of government inspectors. Once the inspection was over, they would flip the box upside down onto a plate to enjoy their hidden feast. This ingenious act of defiance is how "Kaeshi-zushi" was born.

2. Regions in Japan where chirashi sushi is famous

Chirashi sushi is eaten all over Japan, but its appearance and ingredients vary greatly depending on the region. Here are two representative examples from different regions.

"Kaeshi Sushi" from Okayama Prefecture

This is the place where "Chirashi Sushi Day" originated. It is characterized by its lavishly piled-high fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea (such as conger eel, Spanish mackerel, and sea bream) and mountain delicacies.

Kyoto and other parts of the Kansai region"Gomoku Chirashi (Bara Sushi)"

In the Kansai region, including Kyoto, the traditional style involves not only placing raw fish on top, but also mixing finely chopped dried tofu, shiitake mushrooms, dried gourd strips, and lotus root, simmered in a sweet and savory sauce, into the vinegared rice. A layer of shredded egg omelet is then laid on top, creating a very elegant and elaborate style.

3. Chirashi Sushi and Japanese Culture and History

In Japanese culture, chirashi sushi is a special dish that is indispensable for celebrations. In particular, it is almost always eaten on March 3rd, "Hina Matsuri" (Girls' Festival), as a wish for the healthy growth of girls.

This is because each ingredient used has a wonderful, auspicious meaning (wish) associated with it.

Shrimp: May you live a long life until your back is bent (longevity)Lotus root: The holes allow you to see ahead (symbolizing a life with a clear outlook).Beans: To be able to work diligently and healthily (health and diligence)

These dishes are not just delicious; they are filled with the warm spirit of Japanese cuisine, a wish for the happiness of those who eat them.

4.Seasonal fish and chirashi sushi

🍣 Introducing "Sushi Lab’s June Special: Seasonal Chirashi-sushi"

June is a fantastic season for Japanese seafood, as it marks the transition from spring to summer fish. At Sushi Lab, we introduce our original Chirashi-sushi, beautifully topped with a colorful variety of the freshest seasonal catches.

・Horse mackerel

・Isaki (grunt fish)