Index
🥢 “Japanese food is so beautiful… it looks like art!”
That’s what my friend Mark from California said during his trip to Japan.
He was sitting at a traditional Japanese inn in Kyoto, staring at a tray full of colorful little dishes — miso soup, grilled fish, pickles, rice, a tiny salad, and even tofu.
He whispered,
I don’t even know where to start. Do I eat this clockwise? Are there rules!?
I nodded in agreement, eyes wide open.
So many dishes! But it looks too beautiful to eat!
🍱 What Is Washoku?
The word Washoku “和食” literally means “Japanese food.”
But it’s more than just sushi or ramen. It’s a philosophy — a way of thinking about food.
Here’s what makes Washoku special:
- Five Flavors (五味): sweet, salty, sour, bitter, umami
- Five Techniques (五法): raw, boil, grill, fry, steam
- Five Colors (五色): red, green, yellow, black, white
- Seasonal Ingredients: Eating with the seasons, like cherry blossom rice in spring or chestnut rice in autumn
- Harmony and Balance: Not too much, not too little — just the right amount for body and soul
Washoku is not just about taste — it’s about balance, health, and aesthetics.
🥇 Why Did Washoku Become a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage?
In 2013, Washoku was officially registered by UNESCO as an “intangible cultural heritage of humanity.”
But why?
Because Washoku is not just cooking — it’s a cultural tradition passed down through generations.
Here are the key reasons:
- Celebrating the seasons: Many Japanese dishes are made to reflect seasonal changes.
- Family and community: Meals are a time for families to come together.
- Respect for nature: From mountain vegetables to seafood, everything is appreciated.
- Aesthetic presentation: Each meal is a visual experience, like a mini art piece.
UNESCO saw Washoku as something deeper than food — it’s a lifestyle and a value system based on respect, harmony, and mindfulness.
🥣 What Is “Ichiju Sansai” (一汁三菜)?
This is the traditional structure of a Japanese meal:
“One soup and three dishes.”
- One soup: usually miso soup
- One main dish: like grilled fish or meat
- Two side dishes: vegetables, tofu, or salad
- Plus rice and pickles
It’s simple, but perfectly balanced in terms of nutrition, taste, and color.
Wait… This is breakfast!? Looks like a feast from a royal palace!
👀 A Traveler’s Experience: “I Didn’t Know Food Could Be This… Calm.”
Here’s what Mark said after his first traditional Washoku meal:
I expected something big and flashy like a steak or burger.
But Japanese food felt… calm. Gentle.
It made me slow down and think about every bite.
He also mentioned that the portions were smaller than what he was used to, but he felt full in a different way — not just in his stomach, but in his heart.
I added with a wink:
It’s not about quantity. It’s about quality. And presentation!
🌸 Washoku Is a Philosophy, Not Just a Menu
Washoku teaches us something modern life often forgets:
- Appreciate the moment.
- Eat with your eyes and your heart.
- Respect the ingredients.
- Eat together. Laugh together.
That’s why it became a world heritage — because it’s not just about filling your belly.
It’s about connecting people, nature, and culture.
🍜 What’s Next?
In the next part of this series, we’ll explore the secret behind the incredible flavor of Washoku:
Dashi — the magical Japanese soup stock made from kelp and dried fish.
I heard that even chefs in France use dashi now! Can’t wait to learn more!
🔖 Conclusion
A meal that feeds the heart as well as the stomach.
Washoku means more than “Japanese food” — it’s a cultural philosophy.
Recognized by UNESCO in 2013 for its cultural and communal value.
Based on seasonal ingredients, harmony, and beautiful presentation.
Traditional meal structure: Ichiju Sansai “One soup, three dishes”.
P.S.
Japanese food is a meal, a culture, and a tradition. I remember how happy I was when I heard someone from abroad say that Japanese food is also an art form. I hope you will also enjoy Japanese food with your mouth and eyes.
またね(Matane)!
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