It’s a French dish, vegetables and some kind of protein, simmered for a long time. Japanese people have taken a liking to it, although they tend to eat it all together like a hot pot. In France they would separate and serve the soup and then the meat and vegetables.

I live in Japan for 40 years and my winter vacations are always in Hokkaido. Slow food, slow days, walk in the snow ( no bears around ) and of course long baths at and onsen. Ahh of course Oden and Sukiyaki !!