When you go to a ryokan or a restaurant, you sometimes see sashimi served on a boat-shaped platter—but why is that?
At celebrations and parties, nothing excites guests more than a dish that looks truly spectacular. Among Japan’s most eye-catching dishes is Funamori—fresh sashimi and other delicacies beautifully arranged on a boat-shaped platter. With its striking presentation and rich cultural background, Funamori has become a symbol of festivity.
In this article, we’ll explore what Funamori is, its fascinating origins, and how it’s enjoyed today.
What is Funamori?
Funamori (舟盛り) is a traditional Japanese way of serving seafood, typically sashimi, on a platter shaped like a Japanese wooden boat. The most common version features slices of fish such as sea bream, tuna, squid, and sweet shrimp, all arranged artfully to resemble a miniature feast of the sea.
But Funamori isn’t limited to sashimi alone. Some people create Funamori with sushi, tempura, or even assorted appetizers. As long as you have a boat-shaped dish, you can transform ordinary food into something festive and memorable.
Personally, I’ve only seen sashimi served this way, but I’ve heard that in izakaya they sometimes serve fried chicken and other dishes on boats too.
The Origin of Funamori: From Fukui to the Nation
The roots of Funamori can be traced back to the late Edo period in Japan. In 1840 (the first year of Man’en), Matsudaira Mochiaki, the 17th lord of the Fukui domain, made his first official entry into Echizen after succeeding his foster father, Lord Matsudaira Shungaku.
When Lord Mochiaki visited Mikuni (in present-day northern Fukui Prefecture), the village headman, Goeimon Ito, prepared an elaborate dish to welcome him. He created a wooden boat-shaped platter and filled it with sea bream and large sardines. This presentation impressed the lord, and thus the first Funamori was born. Over time, the style spread across Japan, becoming a popular way to celebrate with seafood.
Serving sashimi in a boat-shaped dish is such a creative idea. No wonder it caught on!
Why Funamori Became Popular
Several factors explain why Funamori quickly gained popularity nationwide:
- Visual impact
Serving food on a boat immediately makes the dish look more luxurious and festive. - Perfect for large gatherings
Since Funamori is usually prepared on a large platter, it’s ideal for sharing at banquets, weddings, and memorial events. - Connection to Japanese maritime culture
Boats symbolize prosperity, good harvests, and safe journeys, making them auspicious vessels for serving food.
Funamori really makes an impact visually, and it makes sashimi look even more luxurious and delicious.
Funamori Today
Funamori is still widely enjoyed in modern Japan. Many ryokan (traditional inns), restaurants, and izakaya serve it as a highlight of their menu. At hot spring resorts, Funamori often appears as the centerpiece of a kaiseki-style dinner, creating lasting memories for travelers.
In izakaya, smaller Funamori sets are available, making it easy to enjoy in casual settings. Some restaurants even offer Funamori for birthdays and anniversaries, blending tradition with modern celebrations.
Beyond Sashimi: Creative Ways to Enjoy Funamori
Although sashimi is the classic choice, Funamori can be adapted in creative ways:
・Sushi Funamori: A colorful display of nigiri and rolls packed onto a boat.
・Tempura Funamori: Crispy fried shrimp, fish, and vegetables served hot and golden.
・Appetizer Funamori: Cheese, ham, fruits, or even desserts can be styled for parties.
The flexibility of Funamori makes it perfect not only for traditional events but also for home parties and gatherings.
Where to Buy Funamori Platters
The good news is that you don’t need to be in Japan to try Funamori at home. Boat-shaped serving platters are widely available online. Options range from large, authentic wooden boats to smaller, lightweight plastic versions that are easier for casual use.
Even supermarket sashimi looks luxurious when arranged on a boat-shaped platter. Adding Funamori to your table during New Year’s celebrations or a home party instantly elevates the atmosphere.
I didn’t know you could buy Funamori platters online! If you love sashimi or go fishing often, it might be handy to own one.
Final Thoughts about Funamori
Funamori is more than just sashimi on a decorative dish. It’s a culinary tradition rooted in Japanese hospitality, born from a lord’s banquet in Fukui and spread throughout the nation as a symbol of festivity and abundance.
Today, you can enjoy Funamori at restaurants, inns, or even at home with your own platter. Whether filled with sashimi, sushi, or creative alternatives, Funamori is a unique way to celebrate special occasions with flair.
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