I celebrated the Japanese “Eel Day” with Dutch friends. Originating from the Edo period, the tradition of Eddl Day traces back to the efforts of the esteemed academic, Mr. Gennai Hiraga. Mr. Hiraga, a pioneer of Rangaku (the study of Western sciences in Japan), advocated for increased consumption of eel during the summer months. Given his notable impact on the relationship between Japan and the Netherlands, it's only fitting to honor Eel Day in Amsterdam as well, with plant-based grilled eel.