Hatahata (Sailfin Sandfish) Day
Food DaysWhat Is Hatahata Day?
December 6th is "Hatahata Day" in Japan. Established in 2008 by the Oga City Commerce and Industry Association in Akita Prefecture, it falls at the time when the seasonal hatahata (sailfin sandfish) catch typically begins along the Oga coast. The day is observed with prayers for a good catch and for the prosperity of the related industries.
The Fish That Announces Winter in Akita
Hatahata is designated the official fish of Akita Prefecture. The fish move inshore to spawn around December, and this catch is known as the seasonal hatahata fishery.
- Established by: the Oga City Commerce and Industry Association, Akita Prefecture
- Year established: 2008
- Origin of the date: the day the season's first coastal catch is often landed
- Purpose: prayers for a good catch and for prosperity across related industries
- Prefectural fish: hatahata is the official fish of Akita Prefecture
Shottsuru, Buriko and Yuage
Hatahata is woven into Akita's food culture. Shottsuru, a fish sauce made from hatahata, flavors the local hot pot of the same name. The roe found in the female's belly is called buriko, known for its distinctive stickiness and bite. The fish is also grilled with salt, poached as yuage, or served as dengaku, with methods varying by locality.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Check whether hatahata has appeared at your fish counter
- Look up a shottsuru hot pot recipe and add it to your winter menu
- Read about Akita's regional cuisine
- Find out which fish is the official fish of your own prefecture
Some Places Measure Winter by a Fish
When hatahata arrive at the shore, winter has properly begun in Akita. December 6th is a chance to touch a way of life that counts the seasons by the catch.