■Self-Introduction
Apa Khabar！你好！Hello！こんにちは！ My name is Lee Rou You, and I am from Malaysia, a country famous for its multicultural population where many different cultures coexist. Last year, I wrote an article about the interesting aspects of the Japanese language. This time, I would like to write about Murakami City in Niigata Prefecture, which I visited in January this year.
■Why I Want to Introduce Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture
The reason I want to introduce Murakami City in Niigata Prefecture is because I discovered the unique salmon culture that thrives in this town. Before visiting, I had no idea that Murakami City had a history of salmon culture that dates back more than 1,000 years. When I first arrived at Murakami Station and saw salmon hanging from the station ceiling, I honestly thought, "This is a town that decorates with unique salmon dolls!" (laughs).
However, as I walked around the town, I noticed that salmon were not only hanging in the station but also from the eaves of houses and the ceilings of stores. My curiosity was piqued, so I carefully observed these hanging salmon. To my surprise, what I initially thought were salmon dolls turned out to be real salmon!
While I was reaching out to touch the hanging salmon, a local person noticed me and kindly said:
・"The salmon hanging from the eaves of the houses are real, so don't touch them."
・"Murakami City has had a salmon culture for over 1,000 years."
・"The salmon hanging from the eaves are part of a traditional method for preserving salmon."
I was amazed to learn that this technique involves exposing the salmon directly to the cold, humid winds of the Sea of Japan. This process removes excess water from the salmon, enhancing its unique flavour as salted salmon without the use of preservatives. Coming from Malaysia—a country with consistently high temperatures, humidity, and rainfall—this was especially fascinating to me, as leaving raw fish outside to dry in Malaysia would cause it to spoil within hours.
After learning about this, I wanted to dive deeper into Murakami City's food culture. This curiosity led me to visit Iyoboya Kaikan, where I could explore the history and traditions surrounding salmon in the area.
■Recommended Place in Murakami City: Iyoboya Kaikan
・"Iyoboya" means "salmon" in the local dialect of the Murakami area.
・Hours of Operation: 9:00–16:30
・Admission: 600 yen
・Access: A 1.3 km walk from Murakami Station (※a free bus service is also available)
※For more information, please visit the official website of Iyoboya Kaikan
■Iyoboya Kaikan Museum Recommendation: Salmon Theater
What impressed me the most at this facility was the video shown in the “Salmon Theatre.” I was amazed and deeply moved by the incredible journey of salmon as they are born in rivers, migrate to the sea, and eventually return to their birthplace to spawn.
In my home country of Malaysia, we have both freshwater and saltwater ecosystems, with many fish species adapted to diverse environments and unique ecological niches. However, it is rare to find a fish like salmon, which migrates between freshwater and the sea as part of its life cycle.
The video highlighted how, after growing strong in the cold depths of the ocean, Murakami salmon travel great distances to return to their birthplace. Along the way, they must overcome fast currents and obstacles, sometimes even leaping to progress upstream. According to the video, this extraordinary behaviour is driven by instinct. I was particularly impressed by their resilience and robust appearance.
If you visit Iyoboya Kaikan, I highly recommend watching this video at the Salmon Theatre. It offers a fascinating insight into the remarkable life of salmon and their connection to Murakami’s culture.
■A Story I Heard from a Staff Member of Iyoboya Kaikan
A staff member at Iyoboya Kaikan shared with me that in Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture, many locals have long believed that salmon is a gift from God. As part of this tradition, they offer salted salmon at altars as a token of gratitude.
In my home country of Malaysia, we say a prayer of thanksgiving before meals to express our gratitude for the food provided by God. However, this practice is more about sharing the blessings of food and does not extend to reverence for specific ingredients, such as fish.
Elsewhere in Japan, it is customary to say "Itadakimasu" (which means "I humbly receive") with hands clasped together before a meal, as a way of showing gratitude for the life of the food. At the end of the meal, people also say "Gochisosama deshita" (which translates to "Thank you for the meal") to appreciate both the food and the effort of those who prepared it.
Visiting Murakami City made me reflect on how much our diet is influenced by the local climate, geography, and culture. It also deepened my understanding of the importance of having a sense of reverence for nature and its gifts.
■Notes on Visiting Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture
・Transportation is limited, so please plan your trip and check transportation options in advance.
・If you cannot drive, taking a taxi is often the fastest and most convenient option.
■Other Recommendations in Murakami City
・「Sennen Salmon Kikkawa」：A long-established company specializing in manufacturing and selling processed salmon products.
・Traditional Fishing Method「Iguriami-Riyo」:Experience the unique fishing technique of using nets, practiced on wooden boats in the Miomotegawa River.
■Summary
Murakami City in Niigata Prefecture is an excellent destination for anyone interested in Japan's traditional culture and food heritage. One of the most unique sights in the city is the rows of salmon hanging from ceilings—a spectacle you can only witness in Murakami City.
Additionally, from late October to the end of November, visitors can observe the traditional fishing method called iguriami riyo (iguri net fishing) on the Miomotegawa River, which runs through the city. This technique is carried out on wooden boats and is a fascinating glimpse into Japan's historical fishing practices.
If you’re interested in exploring Japan’s cultural and culinary traditions, Murakami City is a must-visit destination! 😊