Sekihan, a dish of sticky grains mixed with adzuki beans, is traditionally served in Japan to celebrate auspicious beginnings such as starting school or a new job. It is known as red rice for good luck.
In Japan, sekihan is recognized as a dish that brings good luck. Made from sticky grains mixed with adzuki beans, its red color symbolizes good fortune. According to The Japan Times, sekihan is traditionally served to mark auspicious occasions like the start of school or a new job. The article title reads 'Eat a bowl of red rice for good luck,' with the description stating: 'A dish of sticky grains with adzuki beans, 'sekihan' is traditionally served to celebrate auspicious beginnings in school and work.' Keywords include recipes, Japanese cuisine, vegetables, and rice, placing it within Japanese culinary traditions. Published on March 20, 2026, the piece highlights sekihan's cultural role.