Eho Maki
えほうまき, 恵方巻
Lucky Sushi Roll for Setsubun Day
When bean-throwing and Oni-dispelling are over, it’s time for Eho Maki or a large special Sushi roll for the Setsubun Day (Vernal Equinox). Check the year’s lucky direction, face it, pick up your Eho Maki and gobble it while keeping your wishes sharp in mind. If you finish your roll without interruption and any word, guess what? Your wishes will come true! That’s what people say in Japan. So, who started such a custom? I suspect it was a marketing-plot-gone-tradition that originated in Osaka, a notorious city built on the grasping commercial spirit. By the way, what’s this lucky direction of the year? “Eho” refers to the direction where a deity called “Toshi Toku Jin” (a fortune-related divinity) resides since its dwelling varies annually. So, do Japanese people really devour this sushi in 100% silence, facing that Eho direction? No way, not at least in my home. Juiceless, ritualistic eating will spoil a delicious meal and health, which you may want to avoid even at the cost of your fulfilled wishes.
Eho-Maki rolls cut into half.
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Eho-Maki sushi rolls.
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Eho-Maki rolls cut into half.
Eho-Maki sushi rolls.
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