Eel imports at Narita International Airport have reached their seasonal peak as Japan prepares for the traditional "Doyo no ushi" holiday [1].
The surge in shipments is critical to meeting the nationwide demand for eel, a dish traditionally consumed during the "ox day" to provide stamina during the summer heat. This year, the holiday falls on July 26 [2].
Narita International Airport serves as the primary gateway for these shipments, handling approximately 70% of Japan's total eel imports [3]. Tokyo Customs officers in Chiba Prefecture have been processing high volumes of live eels since mid-July, with significant activity reported as early as July 16 [1].
Importing companies noted the high quality of this year's shipments. One importing company said that this year there are more eels with plump bodies than usual, and some eels were so lively they were jumping out of their tubs [3].
A Tokyo Customs spokesperson said that eel imports at Narita Airport have reached their peak [1]. The logistics involve rapid processing to ensure the live fish reach markets and restaurants in time for the July 26 celebration [2].
The coordination between customs officials and importing firms is essential to maintain the supply chain for this specific cultural event. Because the demand is concentrated on a single day, any delays in customs processing could lead to shortages in the retail and restaurant sectors across the country.
“Narita Airport handles about 70% of Japan's total eel imports.”
The concentration of 70% of imports through a single hub like Narita highlights the vulnerability and specificity of Japan's seasonal food supply chains. The reliance on international shipments for a culturally significant day like Doyo no ushi demonstrates how traditional customs continue to drive modern logistics and customs operations in Japan.
