Sea Bream in Japan: The Lucky Fish of Celebration

In Japan, sea bream (tai) is no ordinary fish. It is a symbol of good fortune and an essential part of celebrations.
Its red body and pure white flesh resemble “red and white” (kōhaku), a color combination deeply associated with joyous occasions such as weddings and New Year celebrations. On top of that, its taste and nutritional value make it one of the most cherished fish in Japanese cuisine.

The Japanese also love wordplay. Since tai sounds like medetai (meaning “auspicious” or “joyful”), it naturally became the perfect food for festive occasions. A whole grilled sea bream, complete with head and tail, is especially common at weddings and celebratory banquets.

Sea bream also represents longevity—while its average lifespan is around 20 years, some can live over 40 years. Even the deity Ebisu, one of the Seven Lucky Gods and a protector of merchants, is often depicted holding a sea bream.

In this article, let’s explore why sea bream is considered so special in Japan—its cultural significance, historical background, and of course, the most delicious ways to enjoy it.

Why Is Sea Bream Considered a Lucky Fish in Japan?

The Red and White Colors of Celebration

In Japanese culture, red and white symbolize happiness, prosperity, and new beginnings. Since sea bream has a bright red skin and snowy white flesh, it naturally came to represent good fortune.

A Wordplay: “Tai” and “Medetai”

Japanese people love puns. The word tai in “sea bream” sounds like medetai, meaning “auspicious” or “happy.” This play on words made it a staple food for joyous occasions.

The Meaning of a Whole Sea Bream with Head and Tail

At celebrations, sea bream is usually served whole, with its head and tail intact. This symbolizes completeness—from beginning to end—and is a way of wishing for a perfect, fulfilled life.

The Deep Connection Between Sea Bream and Japanese Culture

Sea Bream Eaten Since the Jomon Period

Archaeological findings show that sea bream was already eaten in the Jomon period (about 14,000–300 BCE). This means Japanese people have enjoyed sea bream for thousands of years.

Offerings to the Gods

Since ancient times, sea bream has been offered to the gods in rituals and ceremonies. Its beauty and taste made it the ideal food to present in sacred spaces.

Ebisu, the God of Fortune, Holding a Sea Bream

Among the Seven Lucky Gods, Ebisu—the god of fishing, fortune, and commerce—is almost always depicted holding a sea bream. This image is a symbol of prosperity and good luck in business.

Sea Bream Throughout Japanese History

Why Samurai Loved Sea Bream

During the Sengoku (Warring States) period, sea bream was favored by warriors. Its sharp dorsal fins resembled spears, and its hard scales looked like armor. To the samurai, it symbolized strength and protection.

Edo Period: Becoming the No.1 Popular Fish

By the Edo period (1603–1868), sea bream had become the top-ranking fish in popularity. It was prized by the shogun, feudal lords, and commoners alike. At fish markets, it was often the most expensive fish sold, earning the title “King of Fish.”

Sea Bream on “Tairyo-bata” (Big Catch Flags)

Even fishermen saw sea bream as a symbol of prosperity. On big catch flags—colorful banners raised when fishing boats returned with abundant harvests—sea bream was frequently painted to celebrate good fortune.

Sea Bream as a Modern Lucky Charm

The Popular “Tai-mikuji” at Shrines

Today, many shrines in Japan offer a unique fortune-telling experience called tai-mikuji. Visitors use a small fishing rod to “catch” a sea bream-shaped fortune slip. It’s fun, lucky, and of course—Instagram-worthy!

A Symbol of Longevity

Since some sea bream can live more than 40 years, it is also associated with long life. It is often served at longevity celebrations like the 60th or 70th birthdays in Japan.

Essential for Celebrations Even Today

From weddings to New Year’s celebrations, sea bream continues to play a starring role at festive occasions in Japan. Even in modern times, it remains a cultural icon of joy and prosperity.

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Sea Bream

Flavorful “Tai-meshi” (Sea Bream Rice)

A whole sea bream cooked with rice creates a fragrant, luxurious dish called tai-meshi. The savory broth from the fish soaks into the rice, making it irresistibly delicious.

Rich and Comforting Fish Head Soup

Using the fish head and bones, Japanese people make a hearty soup known as ara-jiru. It’s rich in flavor and often enjoyed after big celebrations.

Classic Sashimi and Grilled with Salt

For a simple yet elegant taste, sea bream sashimi is always a favorite. Lightly searing the skin adds extra aroma. Salt-grilled sea bream is also a classic dish, perfect for festive tables.

Taiyaki: A Sweet Sea Bream-Shaped Treat

When talking about sea bream (tai), we can’t forget about taiyaki, a beloved Japanese street food shaped like a sea bream.
Despite its fish-like appearance, taiyaki is actually a sweet snack: a crispy waffle-like pastry filled most commonly with sweet red bean paste. Nowadays, many variations exist, including custard cream, chocolate, and even savory fillings.

The reason it’s shaped like a sea bream is simple—sea bream has always been considered a symbol of good luck in Japan. Eating taiyaki is like enjoying a bite-sized piece of good fortune.

You can find taiyaki at festivals, food stalls, and specialty shops all over Japan. For many Japanese people, it’s a nostalgic snack that reminds them of childhood, and for travelers, it’s an easy and fun way to taste a bit of Japan’s “lucky fish” culture.

Sea bream Q&A

Final Thoughts about Sea bream in Japan

Sea bream is much more than just a fish in Japan. It carries centuries of cultural meaning, from its red-and-white colors to its symbolic connection with happiness, prosperity, and longevity. From ancient offerings to gods, to samurai warriors, to today’s festive dinners, sea bream has always been at the heart of Japanese celebrations.

And best of all—it’s delicious. Whether in a steaming bowl of tai-meshi, a refreshing slice of sashimi, or a perfectly grilled whole fish, sea bream continues to bring joy to the table.

So next time you see sea bream in Japan, remember—it’s not just food, it’s a symbol of good fortune.