A Special Japanese Sushi Tradition Eaten for Good Fortune
In early February, you may hear the word “Ehomaki” in Japan.
Ehomaki is a special type of thick sushi roll traditionally eaten on Setsubun, a seasonal event in which people pray for health, happiness, and prosperity in the year ahead.
Unlike regular sushi, Ehomaki is eaten uncut, as one whole roll, while facing a specific direction believed to bring good luck.
Why Is Ehomaki Eaten on Setsubun?
Ehomaki is eaten around February 3rd, on the day known as Setsubun.
In the traditional Japanese lunar calendar, Setsubun marks the day before the beginning of spring, symbolizing a change of seasons.
In Japan, seasonal transitions have long been believed to be moments when both good and bad fortune can enter.
By eating Ehomaki on this day, people wish to welcome good fortune and ward off misfortune for the coming year.
What Is the “Lucky Direction” (Eho)?
Each year, there is a designated lucky direction, known as Eho, which people are encouraged to face while eating Ehomaki.
This direction changes annually and is determined by traditional concepts such as the Chinese zodiac and yin-yang and five-element philosophy.
Traditionally, when eating Ehomaki, people:
- Face the lucky direction of the year
- Eat silently
- Finish the entire roll while making a wish
By eating quietly and with focus, it is believed that one’s wishes are more likely to come true.
Why Is Ehomaki Never Cut?
Ehomaki is traditionally never cut.
In Japanese culture, the act of cutting can symbolize cutting ties or breaking good fortune.
By eating the roll whole, people believe that:
- Good luck will not be interrupted
- Personal relationships will remain strong
- The year will unfold smoothly and peacefully
The Meaning Behind Ehomaki Ingredients
Traditionally, Ehomaki is made with seven ingredients, representing the Seven Gods of Good Fortune.
While ingredients vary by region and household, common examples include:
- Japanese omelet (tamagoyaki)
- Simmered shiitake mushrooms
- Cucumber
- Simmered gourd (kanpyo)
- Anago (sea eel)
- Sakura denbu (sweet fish flakes)
- Shrimp
Each ingredient symbolizes harmony, prosperity, and abundance.
Ehomaki at Sushi Shutatsu
At Sushi Shutatsu, our Ehomaki is prepared with the same philosophy as our omakase sushi.
What we value most is:
- Seasonality
- Balance
- Respect for tradition
Our Ehomaki features:
- Premium seafood sourced directly from Toyosu Market
- Sushi rice seasoned with carefully calculated vinegar balance
- Ingredients selected for flavor harmony, not symbolism alone
- Edo-style sushi techniques refined through experience
Rather than a simple seasonal item, our Ehomaki is crafted as a complete sushi experience within a single roll.
Ehomaki as a Cultural Experience
Ehomaki is more than just eating sushi.
It is a quiet moment to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the future—
a uniquely Japanese tradition rooted in mindfulness and gratitude.
By understanding its meaning, we hope you can experience Japanese food culture more deeply and richly.
2026 Ehomaki Reservation Announcement
The lucky direction for 2026 is South-Southwest (slightly south).
At Sushi Shutatsu, we prepare our Ehomaki using carefully selected ingredients sourced directly from Toyosu Market.
Each roll is crafted by hand with precision and care, carrying our wish for good fortune in the year ahead.
For 2026, we are pleased to offer two types of Ehomaki, allowing you to enjoy different layers of flavor within a single roll.
■ Standard Ehomaki
¥2,800 (tax included)
Japanese omelet / Cucumber / Anago (sea eel) / Pickled daikon
Fatty tuna / White fish / Sweet shrimp
A well-balanced roll crafted with the sensibility of a sushi restaurant,
designed to be enjoyable from the first bite to the last.
■ Premium Ehomaki
¥4,800 (tax included)
Japanese omelet / Cucumber / Anago (sea eel) / Pickled daikon
Fatty tuna / White fish / Sweet shrimp
+ Salmon roe / Lean tuna / Scallop
A luxurious Ehomaki that offers evolving flavors throughout the roll.
Perfect as a special treat or a celebratory centerpiece for the new year.
Reservation Information
- Advance reservation only
- Limited quantity available
- Takeout only (no dine-in service)
Please provide the following information when making your reservation:
- Name
- Phone number
- Pickup date: February 3, 2026 only
- Pickup time: Please select a preferred time between 12:00 PM and 8:00 PM
- Quantity and type (Standard / Premium)
Reservations will close once the limited quantity is reached.
Welcome the New Year with Sushi Shutatsu’s Ehomaki
We invite you to celebrate the beginning of a new year with a carefully crafted Ehomaki from Sushi Shutatsu.
May it bring you happiness, prosperity, and good fortune throughout 2026.
Experience Seasonal Japanese Traditions at Sushi Shutatsu
If you are visiting Tokyo during the Setsubun season,
we warmly invite you to experience Japanese seasonal traditions and sushi culture at Sushi Shutatsu in Ogikubo.
We look forward to welcoming you.
