Nagoya Cochin Day (Nagoya Kōchin no Hi)

What Is Nagoya Cochin Day?

Every year on March 10, Japan celebrates "Nagoya Cochin Day," established by the Nagoya Cochin Association. It marks the anniversary of March 10, 1905, when Nagoya Cochin chicken became the first "practical breed" of chicken in Japan to receive official national certification. The day exists to preserve this historic milestone and pass on the breed's delicious reputation and brand value to future generations. Nagoya Cochin is celebrated as the foremost of Japan's "three great native chicken breeds" and a symbol of Aichi Prefecture's food culture.

Born From the Passion of Former Samurai

Nagoya Cochin was born out of the determination of former Owari domain samurai during the difficult years following the Meiji Restoration.

• A project to support out-of-work samurai: In the early Meiji era, brothers Kaifu Sōhei and Masahide — former samurai of the Owari domain who had lost their positions — crossed a Chinese breed known as "Cochin" with local native chickens. This cross became the ancestor of today's Nagoya Cochin.
• Japan's first certified practical breed: At a time when imported breeds dominated, Nagoya Cochin was recognized in 1905 by the Greater Japan Livestock Breeding Association as the first domestic chicken suitable for both egg and meat production that suited Japanese tastes.

Fun Facts About Nagoya Cochin

• Official name: The formal breed name is actually "Nagoya breed," but the nickname "Nagoya Cochin" is so famous that it's used nationwide.
• The traditional dish "hikizuri": In Nagoya, sukiyaki is called "hikizuri," and hikizuri made with Nagoya Cochin has long been considered a top-tier dish for special occasions.
• Strict bloodline management: To preserve "100% pure" Nagoya Cochin, the supply of chicks is strictly controlled at public testing facilities throughout Aichi Prefecture.
• Roots of fried chicken wings: Nagoya's famous fried chicken wings dish is said to have developed partly as a way to make full, delicious use of Nagoya Cochin meat without waste.
• Selected for space food: Thanks to its flavor and nutritional value, a Nagoya Cochin chicken rice dish was once selected as part of the official menu for Japanese astronauts (Japanese space food).

Proud Tradition Enriches the Table

Nagoya Cochin Day celebrates a source of Japanese pride, crafted with passion by pioneers of the Meiji era. Its flavor, which develops slowly over time, reminds us of the value of careful, deliberate work in our fast-paced modern world. On March 10, why not let the vitality of Nagoya Cochin fill your body with new energy and provide the foundation for confidently moving through your days?

Ideas for Enjoying Nagoya Cochin Day

• Choose a Nagoya Cochin dish for lunch or dinner — chicken and egg rice bowl, yakitori, or hot pot — and savor its exceptional texture and flavor
• Try sweets or rice with raw egg made using Nagoya Cochin eggs, and enjoy the rich, indulgent flavor of the deep-colored yolk
• Reflect on the history of March 10, 1905, with gratitude for those who preserved Japan's livestock and food culture
• Check out an Aichi Prefecture specialty shop or exhibition and bring home authentic Nagoya Cochin products to enjoy at home

An Exceptional Flavor That Elevates You to a New Level

March 10 is a day when knowing the value of the genuine article sharpens your own sensibilities. Just as Nagoya Cochin takes time to develop its ultimate flavor, your past efforts are also taking on a depth and richness all their own. May today be a fulfilling, satisfying, and truly "premium" day for you!