Motsunabe Day

What Is Motsunabe Day?

November 7th is "Motsunabe Day" in Japan. It was established in 2011 by the Japan Livestock By-products Association. The date was chosen because November 7th often falls on Rittō, the start of winter in the traditional 24 solar terms, and because it can be read as "ii motsu-nabe" (good motsu hot pot). Marukyo Shokusan, a meat processor in Sasebo, Nagasaki, also set this date, and its version is registered with the Japan Anniversary Association.

Motsunabe at the Start of Winter

Rittō marks the beginning of winter on the calendar. The day expresses the wish that people enjoy a warming hot pot as the weather turns cold.

• Established by: the Japan Livestock By-products Association (Marukyo Shokusan also set the same date)
• Year: 2011
• Why this date: it often falls on Rittō, plus the wordplay "ii (11) motsu-na (7) be"
• Purpose: to promote the taste of motsunabe and the effective use of resources from animals

Motsu: Making Full Use of Resources

"Motsu" refers to the innards of cattle, pigs and other animals, also known as "horumon." Eating parts other than regular cuts of meat helps use limited resources without waste. The Japan Livestock By-products Association works on making effective use of such by-products. July 13 is "Motsuyaki Day," so motsu has days in different seasons. November 7th is also "Hot Pot Day," fitting for the season when hot pots start to feel irresistible.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Make motsunabe for dinner and savor the start of winter
• Compare different broths, such as soy sauce and miso
• Enjoy the hot pot to the end with noodles or rice porridge
• Invite coworkers or friends to a motsunabe restaurant

Winter Arrives Through the Steam

Sitting around a hot pot naturally gets the conversation going. On November 7th, gather around a steaming motsunabe and feel the arrival of winter.