🍚 Ayumeshi (Mixed Rice with Ayu Sweetfish)

“Ayumeshi” is a local dish which is a mixed rice using ayu sweetfish. It has been eaten by the local people living alongside Naka River and Kinu River. Ayu fishing has been carried out for many years in the Naka River area and it is often said, the “Shimanto River of the west, Naka River of the east.” In 2002, Naka River was selected as one of the “100 Best Rivers with Natural Ayu Sweetfish” by the Japan Sportfishing Foundation. River fish were an important source of protein for the local people of Tochigi prefecture as the area is located inland. Ayu sweetfish was a valuable fish eaten on special occasions such as on festivals and agricultural holidays. Leftover ayu sweetfish were skewered and left out to hang and dry by a hearth so that they could be preserved. “Ayumeshi” is a simple dish made with grilled ayu sweetfish and rice and has been popular among commoners as it is easy to prepare.