Good Meat Day (Ii Niku no Hi)

What Is November 29th's "Good Meat Day"?

November 29th is known as "Ii Niku no Hi" (Good Meat Day) — a wordplay where "ii" (11) and "niku" (29) sound like "good meat." It was established by livestock industry groups and meat retailers across Japan to promote the deliciousness of meat and boost consumption. As autumn deepens and dishes like hot pot, yakiniku (grilled meat), and sukiyaki become especially appealing, this anniversary fits the season perfectly.

The History of "Meat" Culture in Japan

For a long time in Japan, eating the meat of four-legged animals was taboo due to Buddhist influence. Even in the Edo period it wasn't widely common, but after the Meiji Restoration, meat-eating was encouraged alongside the introduction of Western culture, giving birth to uniquely Japanese meat dishes such as sukiyaki and tonkatsu. Today, per-capita meat consumption in Japan is around 35kg per year, and Wagyu beef brands are highly regarded around the world.

Wagyu Varieties Worth Knowing

• Matsusaka Beef (Mie): Called "a work of art in meat," this top-tier Wagyu is known for its beautiful marbling and sweet fat.
• Kobe Beef (Hyogo): One of the most famous Wagyu brands in the world.
• Omi Beef (Shiga): One of Japan's "Three Great Wagyu" brands, with a history of over 400 years.
• Yonezawa Beef (Yamagata): Known for its fine marbling and deep, rich flavor.
• Miyazaki Beef (Miyazaki): An award-winning powerhouse that has taken top honors at Japan's national Wagyu competition.

Ways to Enjoy Good Meat Day

• Yakiniku or Sukiyaki: Splurge on a slightly higher-grade Wagyu than usual and enjoy a special dinner at home.
• Steak: The trick to grilling a thick-cut beef steak well is to bring it to room temperature before cooking, then let it rest afterward.
• Shabu-shabu: Pair a good-quality broth with thinly sliced Wagyu for an elegant, umami-rich experience.
• Butcher Shops and Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax Donations): Order brand-name Wagyu shipped directly from its region of origin and savor the authentic, local taste.

Tips for Enjoying Meat the Healthy Way

Meat is rich in nutrients the body needs, including protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Red meat in particular is high in iron and zinc, helping prevent anemia and support immune function. Pairing meat with vegetables and fermented foods aids digestion and helps create a more balanced diet.