納豆

• Reading: なっとう
• Romaji: nattou
• Kanji breakdown: 納 (na/nat) — store, supply; 豆 (tou) — bean
• Pronunciation: /nat.toː/

Meaning

Natto; fermented soybeans. A traditional Japanese food known for its strong smell and sticky texture.

Made by fermenting soybeans with Bacillus subtilis bacteria, producing a distinctive sticky, stringy texture and pungent aroma. A polarizing food — many Japanese people love it as a breakfast staple over rice, while others avoid it. Most popular in eastern Japan, particularly the Kanto and Tohoku regions.

Examples

1. 朝ごはんにいつも納豆を食べます。 I always eat natto for breakfast.
2. 納豆は体にいいと言われています。 Natto is said to be good for your health.
3. 友達は納豆のにおいが苦手だそうです。 My friend apparently can't stand the smell of natto.

Usage Guide

Context: food, breakfast, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 納 means 'to store' and 豆 means 'bean.' One theory suggests the name came from fermented beans stored in temple kitchens. Natto has been eaten in Japan for over 1,000 years.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal