Nagoya Cochin Day (Nagoya Kōchin no Hi)

What Is Nagoya Cochin Day?

Every year on March 10, Japan celebrates "Nagoya Cochin Day," established by Aichi Prefecture and the Nagoya Cochin Association and registered with the Japan Anniversary Association in 2016. It marks March 10, 1905, when the Japan Poultry Association recognized Nagoya Cochin as Japan's first domestic "practical" chicken breed. The aim is to boost consumption of this leading brand chicken. Nagoya Cochin is counted, along with Hinai-jidori and Satsuma-jidori, among Japan's "three great jidori (local chickens)."

Born From the Passion of Former Samurai

Nagoya Cochin was created in the Meiji era by two brothers, one of them a former Owari domain samurai.

• The Kaifu brothers' cross: Around 1882, former Owari samurai Kaifu Sōhei and his younger brother Masahide, who ran a poultry business in Nagoya, crossed Buff Cochin chickens obtained from China with local Owari chickens, laying the foundation of Nagoya Cochin.
• Japan's first certified practical breed: Aichi Prefecture took over breeding improvement in 1903, and on March 10, 1905, the improved Nagoya Cochin was recognized by the Japan Poultry Association as Japan's first domestic practical breed — a dual-purpose bird that lays well and has tasty meat.

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.
• A breed kept by the prefecture: Aichi Prefecture manages breeding and parent stock, and Nagoya Cochin is produced from birds supplied by prefectural research facilities.
• Old-fashioned "kashiwa" flavor: The meat is firm and springy with a rich flavor, often described as the taste of traditional "kashiwa" (chicken).
• Events on the day: On Nagoya Cochin Day, promotional events and sales of Nagoya Cochin meat, eggs and processed foods are held in Aichi Prefecture.

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 enjoy a Nagoya Cochin dish and think about its history?

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!