UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage “Washoku”

What is “Washoku” in the first place?

The term “Washoku” began to be officially used relatively recently, believed to have become popular in the Meiji era (late 19th to early 20th century). Particularly, as Japan modernized during the Meiji era and engaged in increased international exchanges, the necessity to distinguish it from Western cuisine, referred to as “Yoshoku,” emerged. This led to the recognition of the term “Washoku” as a general term for Japanese cuisine.

The global establishment of the term “Washoku” occurred in the 1980s. During this period, a worldwide boom in Japanese food took place, spreading the charm of Washoku globally. It was within this context that the term “Washoku” became internationally recognized.

Definition and Criteria of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Intangible cultural heritage refers to the way of inheriting traditional culture rooted in human creativity and practical wisdom, such as oral traditions, performing arts, music, dance, rituals, and traditional craftsmanship. UNESCO aims to protect this intangible cultural heritage and promote its value worldwide.

The criteria for intangible cultural heritage are based on the following four pillars:

• Traditional communities or groups actively inheriting their culture
• Cultural practices being passed down through generations
• Culture being protected from common values and systems
• The inheritance and protection of culture contributing to the development of local communities and nations

“Washoku” as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

On December 4, 2013, Washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine) was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, recognized for its distinctive charm and cultural value as “the traditional food culture of the Japanese people.”

However, there is no clear definition for Washoku in the first place. As an intangible cultural heritage, Washoku refers to the traditional dietary style of the Japanese people and not the cuisine itself.

The characteristics of Washoku, excerpted from the website of Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, include the following four points:

1. Respect for diverse and fresh ingredients and their inherent flavors.
2. Support for a healthy diet through nutritional balance.
3. Expression of the beauty of nature and the changing seasons.
4. Intimate connections with annual events like New Year’s.

Japan, with its distinct north-south geography and clearly defined seasons, possesses a rich natural environment, giving rise to diverse food cultures that have grown in harmony with it. Such dietary customs, rooted in the Japanese people’s reverence for nature, were recognized as “Japanese cuisine: the traditional food culture of the Japanese people” and inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Reference: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries “Washoku” Portal Site

Washoku is not only about meals but is deeply intertwined with Japanese culture and customs, expressing dietary traditions based on the Japanese temperament of respecting nature. This food culture, founded on a reverence for nature, has been passed down through generations in the lives of the Japanese people.

Impacts and Significance of Washoku’s UNESCO Registration for Japan and the World.

The UNESCO registration of Washoku was a significant event, marking the recognition of its value and charm on a global scale. This registration has had various impacts on Japan and the world.

Impact on Japan.

• The importance of preserving and protecting Japanese culinary culture has been reaffirmed, prompting further efforts in the dissemination of washoku.
• With the spread of washoku, there has been an enhancement of food education. Emphasizing the nutritional balance and considering seasonal variations in washoku has become integral to promoting healthy dietary habits, leading to advancements in food education at educational institutions and households.
• Regional development and tourism utilizing the appeal of washoku have progressed, with traditional Japanese cuisine being utilized as a local specialty.

Impact on the world.

• Positioned as a symbol of Japanese culture, washoku has spread worldwide.
• Notable for its diverse ingredients, nutritional balance, and the ability to sense the changing seasons, the characteristics of washoku have garnered attention, making it a beloved cuisine among people abroad.
• The global recognition of the allure of washoku has led to an increase in the number of Japanese restaurants worldwide.
• There is a growing demand for chefs with expertise in washoku, contributing to the further inheritance and development of Japanese cuisine.
• The health benefits and environmental considerations of washoku have drawn attention globally, influencing people around the world.

The UNESCO registration of Washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine) signifies the acknowledgment of Japan’s culinary culture both domestically and internationally, fostering cultural exchange. This recognition is expected to preserve the identity of Washoku in Japan while promoting its sharing with the world.

The future of Washoku.

When considering the future of Japanese cuisine, it is crucial to focus on the preservation and protection of Washoku culture. Washoku is a traditional culinary culture that needs to align with contemporary dietary lifestyles.

In efforts toward the future, it is essential to promote regional development and tourism through initiatives such as offering Washoku utilizing local specialties and creating dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Additionally, fostering food education in schools and homes, along with passing down Washoku traditions within families, is vital. Striving to instill an appreciation for Washoku and cultivating a love for it among children is necessary for the future.

Preserving tradition while incorporating new adaptations is required to build the future of Washoku. In essence, collective societal cooperation, the fusion of tradition and modernity, and the transmission of Washoku’s charm to the next generation are all crucial for safeguarding the future of Japanese cuisine.

To enjoy Washoku even more.

Japanese cuisine, known as Washoku, is a traditional culinary culture of Japan, and its appeal is highly appreciated worldwide. People from countries other than Japan enjoy Washoku for reasons such as its diversity and the allure of fresh ingredients. Washoku features distinct dishes in each region, allowing individuals to experience the history and culture unique to those areas. Furthermore, Washoku places great importance on highlighting the natural flavors and textures of ingredients, captivating people from outside Japan with its rich tastes.

To fully experience Washoku, it is recommended to explore various regional styles of Washoku. Enjoying different ingredients and cooking methods specific to each area allows for a deeper appreciation of Washoku’s charm. Trying local specialties and dishes made with regional ingredients from various parts of Japan enables one to savor the unique flavors and cultures of those places.

The allure of Washoku has spread both domestically and internationally, leading to an increase in the number of Japanese restaurants worldwide. For people from countries other than Japan, Washoku is considered one of the enjoyable aspects of visiting Japan, with popular menu items such as sushi, ramen, and tempura. To enhance the enjoyment of Washoku, it is important to try various Japanese dishes based on personal preferences and interests. Revel in the charm of Washoku while delighting in the diverse culinary culture of Japan.

Stay tuned to this blog for introductions to captivating aspects of Washoku beyond sushi and ramen.