🍱 Sanmazushi

At the Ubuta Shrine, located in the town of Arima, in Kumano City, the priests and priestesses perform a ritual called “Houhan,” during which children are served foods such as “Sanmazushi (a sushi made from Pacific Saury),” a dish which is served, in this case, with the backbone intact. Although “Sanmazushi” is usually served with the backbones removed, in the version prepared for this ritual, the bones are left intact, as it is endowed with the hopes that the children will grow up strong in body and mind, and perhaps to supplement their calcium intake as well. At the front of the torii gate at Ubuta Shrine is a sign written on a log, indicating that this is the birthplace of “Sanmazushi.” This is a local dish traditionally served at celebratory and festive occasions, and was first promoted by restaurants in Owase in 1975 in a bid to establish it as a famous specialty of the area. Ever since, it has now become one of the most popular culinary highlights in the Eastern Kishu region. Moreover, in this area, it is common to prepare and serve “sugatazushi (a type of sushi in which the entire body of the fish, from head to toe, is used)” during many celebratory events. And so, when sanma (Pacific Saury) is not in season, other fish, such as sardine, horse mackerel, and barracuda, are also used.