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Easy Japanese news in translation: Eel shipping begins in Miyazaki Prefecture

Easy Japanese news in translation: Eel shipping begins in Miyazaki Prefecture

The Mainichi21-07-2025
The shipping of "shinko eel" began in Miyazaki Prefecture on July 14, ahead of "Doyo no Ushi no Hi" or the Day of the Ox in midsummer, which falls on July 19 and 31 this year. In Japan, there is a long tradition of eating eel on the Day of the Ox. It is believed to be good for preventing summer fatigue and for health. Shinko eel refers to eels that are farmed for one year or less. They weigh about 160 to 350 grams each and are known for their soft texture.
Easy Japanese news is taken from the Mainichi Shogakusei Shimbun, a newspaper for children. This is perfect material for anyone studying Japanese who has learned hiragana and katakana. We encourage beginners to read the article in English followed by Japanese, or vice versa, to test their comprehension.
A fresh set will be published every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 4 p.m., Japan time. Click/tap here for past installments.
Intermediate learners who do not need English assistance can directly access the Mainichi Shogakusei Shimbun site here. Furigana (hiragana) is added to all kanji in the text.
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