【Reading】はっぱずし

【English Name】Leaf-Wrapped Sushi

Happa-zushi (leaf sushi) is a general term for local sushi in which vinegared rice and ingredients are wrapped in plant leaves. Handed down throughout Japan mainly in mountainous areas, the types of leaves and ingredients used differ by region.

Representative examples include kakinoha-zushi of Nara and Wakayama Prefectures (slices of mackerel or salmon placed on vinegared rice and wrapped in persimmon leaves), hoba-zushi of Gifu and Nagano Prefectures (wrapped in magnolia leaves), and sasa-zushi seen in various regions (using bamboo grass leaves).

The purpose of wrapping in leaves is, besides the preservative and antibacterial effects from components such as tannins contained in the leaves, also portability and adding a distinctive flavor. In an era without refrigeration technology, it is said to have developed as wisdom for preserving and eating raw fish in mountainous areas.

Often made at home during festivals and events, it is one of the local dishes symbolizing regional food culture. The variations of leaves and ingredients used are wide-ranging by region, and even the same "happa-zushi" differs greatly in flavor depending on the locality, which is a characteristic feature.