Bifun (Rice Noodle) Day (Bīfun no Hi)

What Is Bifun Day?

August 18 is "Bifun Day," established by the Bifun Association, a group of companies that make or import bifun, and registered with the Japan Anniversary Association in 2006. Because bifun is a noodle made from rice, the date comes from the fact that the kanji for rice (米) can be broken down into the characters for "eighty-eight" (八十八). The day expresses gratitude for rice and promotes the nutritional value and pleasant texture of bifun.

Why August 18 Is "Bifun Day"

The date links bifun's main ingredient, rice, with the shape of the kanji for rice. Kenmin Foods, a major maker headquartered in Kobe, began producing bifun in 1950.

• Date origin: The kanji 米 (rice) breaks down into 八十八 (8-18).
• Established by: The Bifun Association, a group of bifun makers and importers.
• Purpose: To express gratitude for rice and share the nutritional value and texture of bifun.

What Is Bifun?

Bifun is a noodle made from rice flour, widely eaten throughout Southeast Asia and southern China. In Japan, stir-fried bifun is the most common preparation, but it's a versatile ingredient that also works in soups and salads.

• Made from rice: Since it contains no wheat flour, it's also gaining attention as a gluten-free noodle.
• Versatile cooking: Can be stir-fried, used in soups, or tossed in salads.
• Long shelf life: The dried form keeps for a long time, making it a convenient pantry staple.

The History and Culture of Bifun

Bifun has a long history within Asian food culture.

• Roots in southern China: It has long been eaten in places like Fujian and Guangdong provinces.
• Widespread across Southeast Asia: It's also a daily staple in Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and other countries.
• Spread in Japan: Domestic production began after the war in places like Kobe, and bifun gradually found its way onto home dining tables.

Fun Facts About Bifun Day

• Kenmin's fried bifun: Launched in 1960 as a pioneering pre-seasoned bifun, it was certified by Guinness World Records in 2020 as the longest-selling fried bifun brand.
• Rice-noodle dishes across Asia: Besides Taiwan's "fried mifen," dishes such as Thailand's "pad thai" and Vietnam's "pho" use rice-flour noodles in their own regional styles.
• A healthy ingredient: Since it's made from rice, it's low in fat and has a light texture.
• Quick and convenient: Some dried varieties can be stir-fried without pre-soaking, making them popular for quick meals.

Tips for Enjoying Bifun Day

• Try classic recipes like stir-fried or soup bifun.
• Compare bifun dishes from Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond.
• Incorporate it into your everyday meals as a gluten-free option.
• Look into the history of bifun and Asian food culture to learn the story behind the dish.

A Simple, Light Rice Noodle That Connects Asia's Food Cultures

August 18's "Bifun Day" is a day to savor the surprising depth of this simple noodle made from rice. Discover the appeal of bifun, loved across Asia, and let it bring something new to your table.