Temaki Sushi (Hand-Rolled Sushi) Day
Food DaysWhat Is Temaki Sushi Day?
September 9th is "Temaki Sushi Day" in Japan, established in 2006 by Sugiyo Co., Ltd., a seafood and food producer based in Nanao, Ishikawa Prefecture. The date comes from a playful pun: the rolling motion used to make temaki sushi is described in Japanese as "kurukuru," and reading the digit 9 twice as "ku-ku" echoes that same sound. The day is certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association.
The Appeal of Temaki Sushi
Temaki sushi is a home-friendly style of sushi where each person rolls their own vinegared rice and favorite fillings into a sheet of nori.
- Endless combinations: mix and match fillings — sashimi, tuna, rolled omelet, cucumber, and more
- Sparks conversation: rolling and eating together with family or friends naturally gets everyone talking
- No skill required: no special cooking technique is needed, so it's a dish everyone from kids to adults can enjoy together
Why "Kurukuru"?
Making temaki sushi involves wrapping rice and fillings in nori with a rolling, curling motion. The onomatopoeia "kurukuru" for that motion, layered onto the digit 9 read twice, is the playful pun behind this anniversary's name.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Invite family or friends over for a temaki sushi party
- Try an unusual filling you wouldn't normally choose
- Experiment with different sauces or condiments that pair well with temaki sushi
- Order a single-serving temaki sushi kit and enjoy it on your own, no fuss required
A Day to Roll Up Smiles Along With Everything Else
The very process of making temaki sushi sparks conversation and laughter, making it a dish built for sharing. Let September 9th be a chance to roll up your favorite ingredients, one by one, and savor unhurried time with someone you care about.