Lotus Root Day

What Is Lotus Root Day?

November 17th is "Lotus Root Day" in Japan. On this day in 1994 (Heisei 6), people from lotus root growing regions across Japan gathered in Tsuchiura City, Ibaraki Prefecture, for a "Lotus Root Summit," where it was decided to make this date an anniversary.

The "Lotus Root Summit" That Brought Growers Together

Ibaraki Prefecture, where Tsuchiura is located, is known for its thriving lotus root production, and Tsuchiura itself is one of the top producing municipalities in Japan. Lotus Root Day was born from the summit held in this major growing area.

• Origin of the date: the "Lotus Root Summit" held in Tsuchiura City, Ibaraki, on November 17th, 1994
• How it was decided: representatives of lotus root growing regions from across Japan chose to make the day an anniversary at the summit
• Related place: Tsuchiura City, Ibaraki Prefecture, a major lotus root producing area
• Season: the date falls as shipments get into full swing in autumn and winter

Lotus Root Is a Stem, Not a Root

Lotus root is treated as a root vegetable, but it is actually the thickened underground stem of the lotus plant, not a root in the botanical sense. It is surprising that something written with the characters for "lotus root" is not a root at all. The holes in lotus root are said to be passages that carry air to the lotus, which grows in water. Because you can see through the holes, lotus root is considered a lucky food that brings "a clear view of the future," and it is used in osechi New Year dishes.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Cook a lotus root dish such as kinpira, stuffed fried lotus root or lotus root chips
• Try different cutting methods and compare the textures, crunchy or soft
• Check where the lotus root at the supermarket was grown
• In the spirit of "a clear view ahead," review your work plans through the end of the year

Lotus Root for a Clear View as the Year Winds Down

Lotus root is an autumn and winter delicacy with a satisfying crunch. November 17th, an anniversary born when growers from across Japan came together, is a day to add a lotus root dish to your table.