This video, titled "Asakusabashi [Motenashi Kuroki] High quality ramen made by a master of Japanese and Italian cuisine! [Ramen Walker TV #211]" (浅草橋『饗 くろ㐂』和食やイタリアンで腕を振るってきた店主が手掛けるハイクオリティーなラーメン！【ラーメンWalkerTV #211】), was released by "ramenwalker." Motenashi Kuroki in Asakusabashi is one of the most popular ramen shops in Tokyo. The owner of Motenashi Kuroki was trained in Japanese and Italian restaurants, and his special soy sauce soba noodles have a concentrated flavor of seafood, Japanese soup stock, and back fat. This ramen is served with toppings such as black pork chashu simmered in mellow red wine and Fuji Genton pork grilled in sauce. If you're looking for supreme ramen, which the culinary professional considers to be a culmination of his work, be sure to visit Motenashi Kuroki.

It Just Gets Bigger and Bigger as It Cooks! "Basho Senbei," a Specialty of Osaka! This video shows a demonstration of baking basho senbei at a festival stall. Basho means "banana" and basho senbei (rice crackers) are named after the shape of a banana leaf. It's pretty uncommon to find even in Japan, but it's an Osaka specialty, and you can buy it online as well. In the video, you can see the rice cakes that start out the size of the palm of your hand getting bigger and bigger as they're cooked. Be sure to check it out!

This video, titled "Sea Log of the Floating Hotel, Guntû. An in-Depth Report on the Interior, Guest Rooms, and Meals" (海の上の旅館guntû(ガンツウ)乗船記?船内、客室、食事徹底レポート), was released by "おのだ/Onoda." Guntû is a luxury cruise ship operated by Setouchi Cruise Lines, based on the concept of "a small inn floating on the Seto Inland Sea." Guntû is the nickname for the small blue Asian paddle crab found in the Setouchi area. When you think of a luxury liner, most people tend to think of a large ship, but the Guntû is a small boa, at just 81.2 meters long and 13.75 meters wide. It has a total of 19 cabins with a capacity of 38 passengers. It's a tourist boat for the wealthy, with prices starting at ¥400,000 per night for two people. The video introduces the interior furnishings, which are carefully designed using products from the Seto Inland Sea coast, as well as the onboard facilities and amenities. The food is also very particular, with a focus on carefully selected local ingredients. You can enjoy Japanese and Western cuisine, sushi, and sweets.

Yatsuhashi- One of Kyoto's Most Popular Sightseeing Souvenirs This video shows how to make "Yatsuhashi," a representative souvenir of Kyoto. Yatsuhashi is a Japanese confectionery that has established a firm position as a tourist souvenir of Kyoto. In general, there are two types of yatsuhashi: nama yatsuhashi (non-baked yatsuhashi) and katayaki yatsuhashi (hard-baked yatsuhashi), both are equally popular. The standard flavor is cinnamon, although it is now available in a variety of flavors, such as matcha, strawberry, and black sesame. In the video, you can see the katayaki yatsuhashi being made in the store, so be sure to check it out.

This video, titled "Flavors of Kaga and Noto (Fermented Food): Kabura Sushi, Konka Iwashi - nippon.com" (加賀・能登の美味「発酵食」：かぶら寿し・こんかいわし | nippon.com), was released by "nippon.com." Fermented foods made from fish and shellfish have been made in Japan's Hokuriku region since ancient times. An environment where it is cold enough to maintain low temperatures is ideal for food fermentation. Kabura sushi, a Kanazawa specialty, is said to have originated as a preserved food made from fermented vegetables and fish. Nowadays, yellowtail fillets caught on the Sea of Japan are placed in between salted turnips. The turnip is then enclosed in a vat and the space between the two is filled with koji, and the koji bacteria ferments the turnip to produce a delicious taste. The crunchiness of the turnip and the flavor of the yellowtail are combined with the aroma of koji to create a complex taste. On the other hand, sardine soaked in bran is called "konka iwashi" and is eaten lightly grilled with bran on top. This is also eaten with sardines and bran neatly spread in a tub and fermented.

The Unaju of Unagi Irokawa, Listed as a Michelin Tokyo Bib Gourmand This video, titled "浅草雷門【うなぎ色川】のうな重と肝焼きGrilled Eel and Rice of Irokawa in Asakusa.【飯動画】【Unagi】," introduces Unagi Irokawa in Asakusa. Unagi Irokawa is an eel restaurant with a long history, established in 1861. The eel here is baked with a secret savory sauce that has been handed down for more than 150 years, and are soft and fluffy. The restaurant was listed as a Michelin Bib Gourmand and there is a long line of people waiting to get in every day. If you're seated at the counter, you can watch the chefs grill the eels right before your eyes! If you're visiting Tokyo's Asakusa, be sure to stop by. ◆Unagi Irokawa Store Information◆ 【Address】2-6-11 Kaminarimon, Taito, Tokyo 【Access】A 1-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Exit A1) off the Toei Subway Asakusa Line / A 3-minute walk from Asakusa Station off the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Tobu Isesaki Line / A 5-minute walk from Tawaramachi Station off the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line 【Avg. Cost】¥3500+ 【Hours】11:30-14:00 or until sold out 【Closures】Sundays, holidays, etc. 【Parking】None 【Phone】03-3844-1187 【Tabelog】Unagi Irokawa https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1311/A131102/13003697/

This video, titled "Tuna/OnionHot Pot [Edo Hibachi｜Episode 49]" (ねぎま鍋【江戸長火鉢　49杯目】), was released by "てこ蔵・TEKOZO." The ingredients for Negima nabe (Tuna/Onion hot pot) are onions and bigeye tuna belly. It's cooked in a pot with dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, and sake. The video shows how a "bekohai" (a sake cup that can't be set down until finished) is heated over the hibachi. Negima nabe is cooked slowly in the sunken hearth, and it is a superb dish. It's important to choose bigeye tuna with good fat to bring out the flavor in the hot pot. If you put rice in the leftover soup stock and put an egg in it, you can make zosui to finish the dish. If you want to try the delicious negima nabe, which has been eaten in Japan for hundreds of years, be sure to take a look at the video!

This video, titled "22 Courses Fusion Omakase (2 Starred Michelin)!!! Sushi Yoshi 壽司芳 @ TST, Hong Kong," was released by Food Warrior. Sushiyoshi is a sushi restaurant in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. Chef Nakanoue, who has a 2-Michelin star restaurant in Osaka, made his debut in Hong Kong. The restaurant is bright and clean, with seating for 12 at the counter, and in this video you can see 22 different courses of food. The menu includes such delicacies as flounder, striped jack, amberjack, Osaka-style bamboo leaf sushi, abalone with sea urchin, caviar with lime, hairtail, seared mackerel, surf clam, blackthroat seaperch, fatty tuna with truffle, hand-rolled tuna, char-grilled tuna with truffle, crab and fried rice cakes with sea urchin and caviar, and more.

Japan's Delicious Baby Castella This video shows the artisans at Aoi Renga, which is said to be the best baby castella maker in Japan, making baby castella. Aoi Renga has a branch in Shimokitazawa, Setagaya City, and has been covered by various media outlets. The "Aoi Renga" baby castella, which are also delicious when eaten chilled, were certified by the Setagaya Ward as a "Setagaya Souvenir." In the video, you can see the Fresh Cream Fondue made with fresh cream from Hokkaido, the Fresh Chocolate Fondue made with bitter chocolate and fresh cream from Hokkaido, and baby castella being dipped in them. Be sure to check out the video to see the quick skills of the best castella chefs in Japan! ◆Baby Castella Specialty Store "Aoi Renga" Store Information◆ 【Address】2-25-4 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 【Access】44 meters from Shimokitazawa Station 【Castella Pricing】¥500+ 【Hours】11:00-20:00 【Closures】Tuesdays 【Parking】None 【Phone】03-5453-8711 【Official Website】Baby Castella Specialty Shop「Aoi Renga」 https://www.aoirenga.com/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Aoi Renga https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1066455-d13294823-Reviews-Aoi_Renga-Setagaya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Freshly Cooked Yakitori at Japan's Food Stalls This is a video of yakitori being grilled and taste tested at a yakitori stall. There are two types of yakitori: one in which chicken is skewered and grilled over charcoal or gas fire, and the other in which chicken is not skewered, but rather, cooked on a teppan grill. This is the type of yakitori found in Ehime Prefecture and other places. The former is probably the more popular variety, but at this stall, the yakitori is pressed on a teppan and then grilled over a gas fire at the end. Pressing helps to brown the chicken by releasing the oil, and the press also steams the chicken so it cooks faster. Yakitori goes great with beer or sake. You can often find yakitori stalls at festivals and other events.

Quick, Fluid Motions! How to Make Dango With Soybean Flour, Matcha, and Mitarashi Flavor! This video shows soybean flour, matcha, and mitarashi flavored dango being made at a dango shop. Dango are one of Japan's most popular sweets and are said to have originated before the Heian period and have been enjoyed in Japan since ancient times. There are many variations of dango, such as the sweet soy sauce-flavored mitarashi dango shown in the video, kinako dango, dango loaded with red bean paste, and isobe dango wrapped with seaweed. In the video, you can see three types of dango being made: kinako, matcha, and mitarashi. Be sure to check it out!

Here's the Daily Schedule of Sushi Noz, a Michelin-Starred Restaurant! This chef has been studying the art of sushi for more than 20 years. This is a video of a day in the life of Nozomu Abe, the owner of "Sushi Noz." Sushi Noz opened its doors in New York City, USA in 2018. It's not an overstatement to say that New York is a fierce battleground for Edo-mae sushi, but it's so good that it has been awarded one Michelin star in New York City. Ninety percent of the fish they handle is transported by their expert buyers in Toyosu, and you can enjoy the fresh catch of the day with the restaurant's omakase course. Mr. Abe puts so much effort into his preparation that 90% of his work is completed before operations commence. In the video, he talks about the preparation process, his attitude as an artisan, and the ingredients he uses, so be sure to check it out. ◆Sushi Noz Store Information◆ 【Address】181 E 78th St, New York, NY 10075, United States 【Cost】Omakase Course- $300/person 【Hours】18:00～23:30 【Closures】Wednesday 【Phone】917 338 1792 【Official Homepage】Sushi Noz https://www.sushinoz.com/ 【Yelp】Sushi Noz https://www.yelp.com/biz/sushi-noz-new-york

How to Make Crepes, One of the Most Popular Desserts in Harajuku This video shows crepes being made at a crepe shop. Crepes are a popular sweet in Japan, especially among young people. You can often see them at festival stalls, and you can also find them in Harajuku and other areas, but their variations vary from shop to shop, for example, some stores are particular about using fresh cream and have large toppings. Check out the video to see how to make crepes from start to finish!

The Artisans of Hyorokutei Akasaka Will Mesmerize You! From Processing Live Eel, All the Way to Unaju! This video, released by "Travel Thirsty," shows eel being taken straight from the tank and being turned into delicious unaju. The video shows the cooking and serving of unaju as well as tempura and even unseasoned eel. At Hyorokutei Akasaka, the rice is cooked in a cauldron and the eel and fish are grilled over a charcoal fire, with a variety of options on the menu, including unaju, hitsumabushi, set meals, donburis, and more. Additionally, they have natural and farmed eels, so you can compare flavors! Be sure to check out the video to see the chefs preparing and grilling eel over a charcoal fire. ◆Hyorokutei Akasaka Store Information◆ 【Address】3-16-8 Tokai Annex Bldg. 1F, Akasaka, Minato 107-0052 Tokyo Prefecture 【Access】219 meters from Akasaka Subway Station / Akasaka-mitsuke Station 【Avg. Cost】¥3,000+ 【Hours】11:30-15:00 (L.O. 14:00) / Weekdays 17:30-23:00 (L.O. 22:00) / Sat., Sun., Holidays 17:30-22:00（L.O. 21:00） 【Closures】Sundays 【Parking】None 【Phone】03-5545-6314 【Official Homepage】Hyorokutei Akasaka https://kiwa-group.co.jp/hyourokutei_akasaka/ 【Tripadvisor】Hyorokutei Akasaka https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g14129743-d15180153-Reviews-Hyorokutei_Asakasa-Akasaka_Minato_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Tourist Information for the Winter Months in Tsubetsu, Hokkaido The tourism promotional video produced by the Tsubetsu's tourism board, "Welcome to Winter in Tsubetsu!"（いらっしゃい津別！冬（津別町観光ＰＲビデオ)), captures the beauty of the wild winter wonderland at its best. Tsubetsu is adjacent to Akan Mashu National Park located in the east inland of Hokkaido prefecture. Tsubetsu Outlook is a popular viewpoint overlooking Kussharo Lake during the summer months, but the road leading to the outlook is closed in winter. However, there are some unique attractions in Tsubetsu during the winter. Displayed in the video is a fantastic snow-covered world of minus 20 degree weather with frost-covered trees and wild animals - The harsh beauty of the Wild North. How to Enjoy Tsubetsu's Magnificent Winter Wonderland Source :YouTube screenshot Tsubetsu is an hour drive from Memanbetsu Airport in Abashiri, and the city has no local train. About 80% of its total municipal area is covered by forest, surrounding tourists with the vast landscape as soon as they arrive. You may be wondering if there's anything to see there other than the silvery white plains during the bitter winter, but that same landscape is what makes the visit so worth your time! The trees in the forest are covered with ice, and when the weather is nice they sparkle, creating a fantastic scene of glittering lights. Popular winter activities in Tsubetsu include ice skating at the Tsubetsu Elementary School grounds or smelt fishing at Chimikeppu Lake. You can see smelt fishing at 1:30 in the video. Catching and cooking your very own smelt is a great way to enjoy the cold weather. The subtitle that appears at 1:42 says how "The mountain has become an amusement park," and that's exactly what we see! This amusement park offers a wide range of enjoyable experiences, such as eating fresh snow with condensed milk poured on it. Dining in Tsubetsu Source :YouTube screenshot After spending some time in the magnificent snowscape, viewers are taken to Michi no Eki Aioi (Roadside Station Aioi) that sells healthy snacks using local vegetables. This can be seen at 2:02 in the video. We recommend Kumayaki; it's a snack you can't find anywhere else. Kumayaki is a type of Japanese confection with bear-shaped patties (Kuma means bear in Japanese) and a sweet red bean filling using local flour and locally grown adzuki beans. There are four types of bear-shaped dorayaki (similar to Kumayaki) made of Hokkaido wheat and azuki beans, which are popular in Japan. Local gourmet delicacies such as Tsubetsu Wagyu steak, a brand of beef from Tsubetsu, Hokkaido, which is said to be a rare Japanese wagyu beef, and extra-large kakiage soba noodles made with local vegetables are also worth trying. And there is of course the renowned local dish of Hokkaido, Genghis Khan (a Japanese BBQ mutton dish), which is served at some restaurants in Tsubetsu. Tourist Information for Tsubetsu Source :YouTube screenshot Lamp no Yado Mori Tsubetsu Hotel is a hotel that features an outdoor hot spring bath where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the snow. In summer, tourists come from all over Japan to tour the spectacular sea of clouds from Tsubetsu Pass to Lake Kussharo. "Non-no no Mori Nature Center" is a rare park in Japan that has been scientifically recognized as a "forest therapy base" for its healing properties. The forest therapy guided tour or a walk on the hiking trail through the snow-covered forest will help you get reacquainted with nature. Summary of Tsubetsu, Hokkaido The natural beauty of Tsubetsu instills wanderlust in those who see it. You get a sense that even in this harsh winter wonderland you can enjoy a fantastic experience in the great outdoors. The harshness is exactly what makes it so beautiful. Many festivals and events are lined up in Tsubetsu all throughout the year, such as the ceremony to open the Tsubetsu pass, the "Primrose Festival," "Tsubetsu Summer Festival," the "Tsubetsu Tanabata Festival" in July, the "Bon Dance Festival" in mid-August, and the "Tsubetsu Local Festival." We recommended visiting Tsubetsu to see the events. The detailed information of events and festivals is published on the city's official website. The specialties of Tsubetsu include the traditional wooden crafts and Japanese black beef "Ryu-sui Gyu," which make great souvenirs. I bet this video already has you packing your bags, doesn't it? 【Official Website】Tsubetsu Tourism Association http://www.tsubetsu.net/english/index.html

Mishima Skywalk, Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture: Video Introduction Photo：Mishima Skywalk, Shizuoka Prefecture This video, titled "Mishima Skywalk Facility Introduction" (三島スカイウォーク　施設紹介), was uploaded by "[Official] Mishima Skywalk" (【公式】三島スカイウォーク). The video introduces various facilities and attractions at Mishima Skywalk in Mishima, Shizuoka. If you're looking to get active, take a break and enjoy the scenery, or just see what kind of souvenirs you can find when visiting, be sure to check out this video before you go! Home to the Longest Walkable Suspension Bridge in Japan Photo：Mishima Skywalk, Shizuoka Prefecture Located in Mishima, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai Region, Mishima Skywalk (officially named Hakone Seiroku Mishima Suspension Bridge) opened in December 2015. Located along Japan National Route 1 leading to Hakone Pass, it's known as a spot with spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay on clear days. With easy access to Hakone, Izu, Atami, and other tourist spots, it's one of the best sightseeing courses around Mount Fuji. Ziplines, Outdoor Activities and More! Everything to Do at Mishima Skywalk! Photo：Mori no Kitchen at Mishima Skywalk, Shizuoka Prefecture Mishima Skywalk is located beyond the South Gate. The south area is from the parking lot to the suspension bridge (Mishima Skywalk), and the north area is after crossing the bridge. Here, we'll introduce places where you can enjoy the scenery, delicious food, and souvenirs so you can have fun at at your own pace. At Sky Garden in the south area, you can enjoy a light meal while admiring the flowers blooming all over the ceiling. The original Mishima croquettes from Mori no Kitchen are a popular menu item. [Video] 0:06 - Sky Garden (South Area) [Video] 1:09 - Mori no Kitchen (South Area) From the observation deck in the north area, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the suspension bridge and the majestic Mt. Fuji. In addition, Tree Tree Tree in the north area has a café, a store where you can buy souvenirs, an exhibit about the suspension bridge, and a reception desk where you can sign up for various activities. [Video] 2:04 - Observation Deck (North Area) [Video] 3:22 - Tree Tree Tree (North Area) For those looking to get active and have fun with friends and family, we recommend the Long Zipline. This is a thrilling 560-meter round-trip zipline that takes you downhill in a single bound while enjoying views of the cityscape and Mt. Fuji. [Video] 2:37 - Long Zipline (North Area) In addition, Forest Adventure (North Area), an athletic facility in the forest, offers three courses with varying difficulty levels. Moreover, Cliff Challenger features a 10-meter-tall climbing wall that beginners and advanced climbers can enjoy. [Video] 2:56 - Forest Adventure (North Area) [Video] 3:13 - Cliff Challenger (North Area) Other facilities and activities include Dinosaur Adventure, E-bike trail tours, and more. [Video] 1:54 - Dog Run [Video] 2:27 - Flower Drop [Video] 1:44 - Segway Guided Tours Mishima Skywalk: Hours, Tickets, Parking, and Other Information Photo：Kicoro, the mascot of Mishima Skywalk, Shizuoka Prefecture The Mishima Skywalk suspension bridge takes less than 10 minutes to cross each way, accounting for time spent admiring the scenery and taking photos. In the north area, there's also a walking path called Kicoro Forest, an observation deck, and a number of stores, so it can take more than an hour if you take your time and fully explore the area. [Video] 2:13 - Kicoro Forest If you plan to participate in any of the activities, be sure to plan your schedule to allow for the time required for each activity. The facility also offers discounts for those with disabilities, and package tickets for the suspension bridge and activities in the area, so be sure to check out the official website for details on how to save money. You can also get a discount by showing your Hakone Freepass. A free parking lot is located at the south gate side and can accommodate up to 400 vehicles. Tickets for Mishima Skywalk: Adults - 1,100 yen Junior high school students - 500 yen Elementary school students - 200 yen ※Infants are free of charge ※Prices may change due to events and time of year. ※Other activities in the facility are charged separately. Mishima Skywalk is open from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm daily, and is open all year round. ※Hours may change due to events and/or weather. Other Services Available at Mishima Skywalk: Strollers - 500 yen Dog Carts - 500 yen ※Dog rental carts are only available for dogs under 25 kg and of a size that will fit in the cart. You may bring your own cart if it is less than 70 cm wide. Cages, bags, and carrying pets are not allowed. Raincoats - Free Things to Do Near Mishima Skywalk Photo：Mishima Taisha Shrine, Shizuoka Prefecture Here, we'll introduce some things to do near Mishima Skywalk. ※The travel time by car from Mishima Skywalk is listed in parentheses. [Sightseeing spots on the Shizuoka Prefecture side] Yamanaka Castle Ruins (6 minutes) The nearest historical site from Mishima Skywalk. Nearby is the cobblestone path of the old Hakone Highway, where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the Edo period (1603-1868). Mishima Taisha Shrine (20 minutes) This shrine is famous as the shrine where Minamoto no Yoritomo prayed for the revival of the Minamoto clan. Kakita River (25 minutes) The Kakita River is one of the three clearest streams in Japan and was selected as one of the 100 Famous Bodies of Waters. It's well worth a visit to see its cobalt-blue water! [Sightseeing spots on the Kanagawa Prefecture side] The Hakone Barrier (15 min.) This is a reconstruction of the Edo period (1603-1867) barrier station, which provides visitors with a glimpse of what travel would have looked like back in the day. Hakone Shrine (20-25 minutes) This shrine was revered by Tokugawa Ieyasu. It's visited by many worshippers every year as a power spot in Hakone. Summary of Mishima Skywalk, Shizuoka Prefecture Photo：Mishima Skywalk, Shizuoka Prefecture We hope you enjoyed this introduction to Mishima Skywalk in Shizuoka Prefecture. Although people tend to focus on the views and activities from the suspension bridge, the park also offers a wide range of facilities to enjoy. Consider taking a leisurely stroll through the park. In 2023, the "Hydrangea Festival" will be held from June 10 to July 14, and there will be night lighting on weekends and Saturdays. Be sure to check the official website for more details. 【Official Website】Mishima Skywalk – Enjoy a View of Mt. Fuji From the Longest Suspension Bridge in Japan 【TripAdvisor】Mishima Skywalk (Mishima Suspension Bridge)

Edo Period Recipes: Video Introduction Source :YouTube screenshot This video, titled "[2] Edo Period Food: Making it Just Like the Original Recipe" (【2】江戸時代のご飯 原典(レシピ)通り作ってみた), was uploaded by "Gens Bookshelf Cafeteria." This video introduces Edo Period food recreated based on recipes from three cookbooks published during the Edo Period: Ryori Monogatari, Tofu Hyakuchin, and Meihan Burui. The Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.) was a period of 260 years where Japan was under the rule of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The recipes are intriguing as they introduce meals that are similar to many found in present-day Japanese cooking, while reflecting the food culture of the time. Be sure to check out what the dishes were like in the video. How Many Meals a Day in Edo Period Japan? Shogun vs. Commoner Food Culture Photo：An oil lantern During the Edo Period, people generally ate two meals a day, one in the morning and one in the evening. However, midway through the Edo Period, it's said that three meals a day became the norm. This was due to the improvement of lanterns, which allowed people move about at night. Basic meals of the common people consisted of one soup and one vegetable dish. Side dishes consisted mostly of simmered vegetables and pickled vegetables, and fish was eaten only once every two weeks or so. The tenements where the common people of Edo lived were small and cramped housing complexes. Because of the cramped kitchens, rice was cooked only once a day to ensure efficient cooking. Farmers paid a large portion of their taxes as rice, so they had little rice to eat themselves. They often ate katemeshi, rice cooked with various grains, or mochi (rice cakes) made from various grains. The diet of a samurai varied according to rank. Low-ranking samurai had the same diet as common people, while high-ranking samurai ate a wider variety of food items and ingredients. Daimyo (feudal lords) and shogun enjoyed an even wider variety of side dishes, and some lords even enjoyed fish at every meal. Depending on their social status, they may also have enjoyed sake. Another characteristic of Edo Period food was that many people began to eat out. Food stalls selling tempura and soba (buckwheat noodles) slowly began to pop up and became common among the general populace. Other popular foods were kabayaki (grilled eel covered in a sweet soy sauce) and sushi. Together with soba and tempura, these are considered the four major foods of the Edo. 3 Edo Period Cookbooks – Cook Like They Did in the Age of the Samurai Source :YouTube screenshot Here are the three books on food in the Edo Period that were featured in the video. ●Ryori Monogatari (Tales of Cooking) Ryori Monogatari is a cookbook published in 1643, in the early Edo Period. It's considered to be the oldest cookbook in Japan that provides specific cooking methods. Dishes and ingredients are listed by category, such as "sea fish" and "river fish," and cooking methods are divided into "broths," "vinegared foods," etc. This method of compiling recipes influenced later cookbooks as well. ●Tofu Hyakuchin Tofu Hyakuchin is a cookbook published in 1782, in the mid-Edo Period. It lists 100 recipes for tofu. The book introduces dishes divided into six classes, including "common" and "exquisite," and describes the cooking processes in detail. The book also includes a note that a sequel was published the following year, which suggests that tofu was a popular ingredient among the people of the Edo Period. ●Meihan Burui Meihan Burui was published in 1802, in the late Edo Period. It's a cookbook specializing in recipes involving rice, and introduces more than 140 recipes for porridge, sushi, etc. It also includes columns on the characteristics of rice by production area, showing the high level of interest in cooking with rice during the Edo Period. Fish? Meat? Vegetables? What Did People in the Edo Period Eat the Most Of? Photo：Rice bran The basic diet during the Edo Period consisted of rice, miso soup, and one side dish. From the mid-Edo Period onward, as rice production increased and rice-polishing technology improved, diets shifted from brown rice to white rice. This had an impact on food culture as well, such as the spread of pickled vegetables made from the bran produced in the rice polishing process. Side dishes for the common people consisted mainly of beans and vegetables cooked in a stew. Natto (fermented soybeans) and tofu were also commonly eaten as a source of protein. Vegetables such as daikon, komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach), and leeks were common, and these are eaten even today. Soy sauce, an essential ingredient for flavoring meals in the Edo Period, also spread to the common people in the mid-Edo Period. Many of the dishes in the book are also flavored simply with soy sauce or miso. ●Nebuka-jiru Nebuka-jiru is a miso soup with green onions. Make broth with kombu and dried sardines, and add leeks. Once cooked, miso is added and the soup is complete. [Video] 2:14 - Nebuka-jiru ●Ozasa Tofu Tofu is cooked on a skewer, then cooked in a pot with broth, soy sauce, and mirin. Beaten egg is then poured over the tofu and simmered, and then sprinkled with sansho (Japanese pepper). [Video] 3:00 - Ozasa Tofu ●Tofu Noodles Tofu crumbles and komatsuna are stir-fried, then mixed with boiled somen noodles. Season with soy sauce and serve. [Video] 4:11 - Tofu Noodles In the Edo Period diet, common people ate fish dishes only a few times a month. The common people ate inexpensive and easily obtainable fish, such as sardines and tuna. Shoguns or daimyo on the other hand, ate high-end fish such as sea bream (which were said to bring good luck), sillago, and flounder. Although eating meat was prohibited for many years, it was sometimes consumed for medicinal purposes. Summary of Food Culture in Edo Period Japan Source :YouTube screenshot In this article. we introduced a video recreating Edo Period food. By learning about meals during Edo Period Japan, you can better understand how people lived, the food culture, and the social dynamics of the time. Food is one of the many perspectives from which to understand the history of any given era. If you're curious about Japanese cooking, maybe try making some of the recipes yourself! We hope you can use this article as a reference to create some delicious dishes!

JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: Video Introduction Photo：JR Kyushu, Tsubame 800 Series Shinkansen This video, titled [4K] JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS (Northern Kyushu ver.), was uploaded by JR KYUSHU WORLD. The JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS is a rail pass that allows you to ride not only regular and rapid trains operated by JR Kyushu, but also limited express trains, sightseeing trains, and even the Kyushu Shinkansen. The JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS is an unlimited train pass for the Kyushu area, and there are three types of passes to choose from. The passes are available to foreign tourists with passports issued outside of Japan. Check out the promotional video to get an idea of what a train trip in Kyushu is like. JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: Prices and Types Photo：JR Kyushu, Limited Express 'Aso Boy!' Here we'll introduce JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS prices and types. There are three types of passes, which cover the following areas: Northern Kyushu, Southern Kyushu, and all of Kyushu. Fees for each area vary according to how many days you plan to use the pass. Be sure to choose the one that fits your itinerary. ●JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: 3-Day Pass ・All Kyushu - Adults: 17,000 yen (~$121 USD), Children: 8,500 yen (~$61 USD) ・Northern Kyushu - Adults: 10,000 yen (~$71 USD), Children: 5,000 yen (~$36 USD) ・Southern Kyushu - Adult: 8,000 yen (~$57 USD), Children: 4,000 yen (~$29 USD) ●JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: 5-Day Pass ・All Kyushu - Adults: 18,500 yen (~$132 USD), Children: 9,250 yen (~$66 USD) ・Northern Kyushu - Adults: 14,000 yen (~$100 USD), Children: 7,000 yen (~$50 USD) ●JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: 7-Day Pass ・All Kyushu - Adults: 20,000 yen (~$143 USD), Children: 10,000 yen (~$72 USD) The above information is current as of February 2023. Please check the JR Kyushu official website for up-to-date information. ※Please keep in mind that passes must be used consecutively, meaning you cannot use the pass on one day, skip the next day, and then continue using it for 2 more days (in the case of a 3-day pass). As an example, a 3-day pass that starts on February 1 can be used on February 1, 2, & 3. ※Please note that you must meet the following conditions to be eligible for the pass: 1. You must hold a passport issued by a country other than Japan. 2. You must reside outside of Japan and must be visiting Japan on a temporary visitor visa. The Best Places to Visit in Kyushu to Make the Most of Your JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS Photo：Glover Garden, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Here is a brief introduction of the best routes for traveling in Kyushu. ●Northern Kyushu Area This route takes visitors around Nagasaki, Hita in Oita Prefecture, and the hot spring resorts of Beppu, using Fukuoka and Hakata as a hub. Highlights include the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Glover Garden, onsen (hot springs), and the Jigokudani Meguri (Beppu Onsen hot spring tour). You can enjoy sampling the local cuisine with dishes such as chanpon (champon) and Hita Yakisoba. ●Southern Kyushu Area This route takes visitors around Obi, Aoshima, and Miyazaki, using Kagoshima as a hub. Visitors can experience Satsuma Kiriko (cut glass), Obiten (Obi-style tempura), the hot springs of Ibusuki Onsen, Oni no Sentaku Ita (the Devil's Washboard, a beautiful beach in Miyazaki), Aoshima Shrine, Obi Castle Ruins, Takachiho Gorge and a variety of other tourist attractions. ●All Kyushu Using Hakata as a base, this route takes visitors to Mt. Aso in Kumamoto, Ibusuki and Kirishima Onsen in Kagoshima, and Beppu Onsen in Oita, where they can enjoy the Jigokudani Meguri (Beppu Onsen hot spring tour), Lake Kinrin, and enjoy touring around in horse-drawn carriages, before returning to Hakata where visitors can enjoy shopping and entertainment at Canal City, among various other activities. You can also enjoy the local flavors at the various food stalls in Hakata. [Video] 0:26 - Yufuin Station Other Tickets and Rail Passes for Traveling in Kyushu on a Budget Photo：JR Kyushu Series 787 Limited Express Train So far, we've introduced the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS, a rail pass useable by foreign residents visiting Japan. However, JR Kyushu also offers a variety of other railroad passes and discount tickets for residents of Japan as well. KYUSHU NET KIPPU, KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU7, and KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU3 are discount tickets sold exclusively online. KYUSHU NET KIPPU is a convenient ticket for using the Kyushu Shinkansen and limited express trains, and can be changed as many times as necessary as long as the change is made before receiving the ticket and before the train departs. KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU7 and KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU3 are special tickets with a limited number of seats that offer discounts for reservations made 7 and 3 days in advance, respectively. Additionally, JR Kyushu offers the Gurutto Kyushu Kippu (ぐるっと九州きっぷ) rail pass, which allows unlimited rides on non-reserved ordinary and rapid trains on all JR Kyushu lines for three consecutive days. In addition, there is also the Nimai Kippu (2枚きっぷ), which allows you to ride on limited express trains and reserved seats of ordinary trains at a discounted price, although the stations you can travel to and from are limited. JR Kyushu offers a wide variety of special train passes and tickets, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel itinerary. If you're traveling by train, you can also enjoy train travel not only in Kyushu but also further away by combining them with the Seishun 18 Ticket. Summary of the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS Photo：A 415 series train, JR Kyushu The JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS allows you to visit the most popular attractions in Kyushu for an affordable price. If you're traveling on a budget, be sure to make use of the pass as you enjoy the nature and culture of Kyushu, as well as its delicious food, all while saving money. If you're a resident of Japan, be sure to make sure of the other discount tickets available, and tell your friends visiting from outside of Japan to pick up the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS! 【Official Website】JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS 【Official Website】Kyushu Railway Company

About Hachioji's Promotional Tourism Video The video, titled "Hachioji Promotional Video 'Colorful Life'" (八王子市シティプロモーション動画「Colorful Life」), was uploaded by "HachiojiCityOffice." It captures the various charms of Hachioji. Being a part of the Greater Tokyo metropolitan area, Hachioji features many shopping districts such as "CELEO," a mall that is attached to the station. But being the closest hiking destination from Tokyo is what makes it popular among the city dwellers who day trip up there to get some fresh air. Hosting as many as 23 university campuses, Hachioji is also known as a college town. There are many historical and cultural sites where one can be exposed to Japanese culture and tradition as well. In this article, we'll introduce popular tourist spots in Hachioji alongside the video. The video includes a powerful image of a basketball game that the local team, "Tokyo Hachioji Bee Trains," is playing in. It also showcases the natural scenery that makes Hachioji a popular day-trip destination for local Tokyoites. Take a Hike and View Hachioji From the Summit of Mt. Takao Source :YouTube screenshot Hachioji is a popular natural recreational area in Tokyo. From 0:06, the video captures refreshing images of Hachioji's natural environment such as the "Takatsuki paddy field zone" (the largest agricultural zone in the Tokyo metropolitan area), or the stunning rows of Ginkgo trees. Mt. Takao is the most popular natural attraction in Hachioji. The 2,000 ft. tall mountain debuts at 0:32. Awarded 3 stars by the Michelin Green Guide, it is the most visited mountain in the world, with 2.6 million visitors annually. There's also a chair lift and cable-car that can take you halfway up the mountain, which makes it suitable for casual climbers as well. Climbers can enjoy a beautiful view and magnificent autumn colors, as well as the get an overlook of the city of Tokyo. Source :YouTube screenshot Introduced from 1:09 is "Takaosan Beer Mount," a renowned beer garden where we you can enjoy a stunning night view from up high. It even offers a view of the urban core of Tokyo or Yokohama on clear days. The open air beer garden and breathtaking view are sure to get you in the spirit for some spirits! The temple introduced at 2:03 is Mt. Takao Yakuoin, which is said to be a very spiritual site. The statue found by the cable-car stop is of Saburo Kitajima, a well-known Japanese enka singer who lives in Hachioji. The statue is popular among Instagrammers! Hachioji’s Gastro Culture! Source :YouTube screenshot Don't forget to explore the foodie attractions during your trip to Hachioji. The video introduces some recommended restaurants and local dishes as well. Spotlighted from 0:39 is a bakery "Boule Beurre Boulangerie". The specialties here are the butter-rich croissants or pain au fruit with walnuts. Photo：Hachioji Ramen Hachioji Ramen is a great choice for lunch as well! Its distinguishing features are the simple soy sauce-based soup and the chopped onion topping. There are also many different Hachioji Ramen specialty restaurants around the train station. The most celebrated ramen restaurant is "Goemon" located by the JR Chuo Line Nishihachioji Station, which is introduced at 0:55. The image is sure to make your mouth water. Other hidden gems throughout the city include "Nameko-jiru" (Miso-soup with Nameko mushrooms) of Shiroyama Chaya, a tea-house that sits on the summit of Shiroyama, the Konnyaku of the long standing shop "Nakano-Ya," or the old-fashioned izakaya "Shimura Hall"'s Satsuma-age (deep fried fish paste). "Hachioji Neapolitan," a favorite among the locals, is also a must-try. In 2019, the breakout TV celebrity Roland opened his bubble tea store "The Pearl" in Hachioji. Hachioji also features farmers' markets such as "FIO" (FIO野菜直売所) or "Juke Juke" (ジュークジューク) to provide a direct sale of locally grown organic vegetables. Japanese History and Culture in Hachioji Source :YouTube screenshot There are many cultural or historic sites and events in Hachioji. The Hachioji Festival in August is the city's primary event. The parade floats, gorgeous Mikoshi (portable shrines) carried around the city, and the Lion Dance performance are the highlights of the festival that attract many visitors from the Kanto area. Some other notable cultural or historic sites/events are: Hachioji Kuruma Ningyo (a traditional puppet theater), Hachioji Geisha, Hachioji Firework Festival, Tokyo Fuji Art Museum, Mt. Takao Trick Art Museum, Musashi Imperial Graveyard, Takaosan Yakuoin Yukiji Temple, Hachioji Castle, Takiyama Castle, Nakamachi Kurobei (black wall) district (a remnant of old geisha district), and the Okuda silkscreen factory. The rows of ginkgo trees shown in the video from 0:53 were planted by the Imperial Household Agency in 1929 to commemorate the completion of the Musashi Imperial Graveyard. The annual Ginkgo Festival is held in November along the Koshu Kaido Road where the stunning ginkgo trees are lined up. A Summary on the Introduction of Hachioji Photo：Hachioji, Minamiasa River cherry blossoms The Hachioji promotional video captures the charm of the city that's a hometown to many different Japanese musicians, comedians, and TV personalities. Featuring Mt. Takao that captures the attentions of instagrammers, Hachioji is a great destination for a wide range of travelers. Having turned 100 years old in 2018, Hachioji is a city loved by many people. We definitely recommend giving it a visit! 【Tripadvisor】Hachioji https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1060898-Hachioji_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Video Introduction to Kawachiya, a Popular Dorayaki Shop in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture This video, titled “Japanese Street Food - Japanese Pancake DORAYAKI Jiggly Fluffy Cake,” was uploaded by “Sushi Bomber TV｜Cooking Front Line” (Sushi Bomber TV クッキング最前線). Dorayaki is a classic Japanese sweet loved by the people of Japan! These sweets are also well known from the popular anime "Doraemon." Dorayaki is a snack that can be easily made at home with pancake mix and anko (sweet bean paste), but you'll appreciate the flavor even more after watching the skillful techniques of these confectioners! There are many autographs of famous people inside Kawachiya, and it's frequently featured on TV programs across Japan. Kawachiya was established in 1988 and the popular confectionery features a limit of five dorayaki per person, but this is because the owner wants as many people as possible to be able to try them. The Coca-Cola logo at the front of the shop, where the owner is demonstrating and selling the dorayaki, gives the shop a slightly retro look. Dorayaki – A Popular Japanese Confection Photo：Dorayaki Dorayaki is such a popular Japanese confection that there are famous stores all over Japan, but surprisingly few people know how to make it properly. The recipe differs from store to store, but here we'll share a simple recipe and the origin of the name "dorayaki." Dorayaki is a general term for Japanese sweets made of a disk-shaped sponge cake with sweet bean paste sandwiched in between. It is said that the name "dorayaki" came from the shape of the sponge cake, which resembles a gong, which in Japanese is 銅鑼, pronounced "dora." The dough is made of wheat flour, eggs, and honey, giving it a slightly Western feel, making it a very popular sweet regardless of age or gender. Recently, freezing technology has advanced to allow them to be stored for longer periods of time, making them a great souvenir or gift. The standard sweet bean paste used inside is "koshi-an" or "tsubu-an," but there are also unique stores that add "shiro-an" (white bean paste) or cream. As you can see at 9:10 in the video, a special version with peanut butter sandwiched between the freshly baked cakes is served to the waiting customers. Nowadays, machine made dorayaki are commonly available at supermarkets and convenience stores, but there's something special about eating freshly made, fluffy, and hot dorayaki made right before your eyes at a street vendor. The History of Dorayaki. Why Are There so Many Dorayaki Products With the Name “Mikasa”? Photo：Torayaki The origins of dorayaki date back hundreds of years, and it is said that there was already a confection like the one we known today in the Kamakura period (1192 to 1333 A.D.). It is said that the current style of sandwiching two pieces of sponge cake together became standard in the Showa period (1926–1989 A.D.), but in the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), it was common to fold the round baked dough around the sweet bean paste, sort of like a dorayaki taco. It's said that the major Japanese confectionery Bunmeido made Dorayaki famous nationwide, and since this company popularized Dorayaki under the product name of "Seika Mikasa-yama," many Dorayaki products have been named "Mikasa." There is also a theory that the names "Mikasa," "Mikasa-yaki," and "Mikasa-manju" are favored in Japan's Kansai region because they originate from Mt. Wakakusa, commonly referred to as Mt. Mikasa, in Nara Prefecture. There are also "Nama-dora" with whipped cream, "Torayaki" with tiger patterened cakes ("tora" means "tiger" in Japanese), and "Mushi-dora" where the cakes are steamed instead of baked. Famous Dorayaki Stores Across Japan In this article, we introduced the famous "Kawachiya," a confectionery in Shizuoka, but there are many stores all over Japan where the popular sweet, dorayaki, is sold. In Tokyo, there are three major dorayaki shops: "Kameju" in Asakusa, "Usagiya" in Ueno, and "Sogetsu" in Higashi-Jujo, all of which are crowded with customers seeking dorayaki every day. Dorayaki is also very popular in online rankings. "Suzumeya" in Minami-Ikebukuro, "Seijuken" in Nihonbashi, "Bairindo" which originated in Saitama Prefecture, the popular "Kouro-an" in Yokohama, "Ryoguchiya Korekiyo" in Nagoya, "Morihan" and "Taneya" in Kyoto are all famous wagashi stores with high rankings. Summary of Dorayaki, the Popular Japanese Confection Photo：Dorayaki being made One of the highlights of Kawachiya, the shop introduced here, is the is the teamwork of the husband and wife. The husband cooks up the delicious confections and the wife packages them diligently. The dorayaki, with its fluffy sponge cake and generous amount of sweet bean paste will have you coming back for more! It is also sold in an assortment with other Japanese sweets, making it a great gift. Some stores also offer a service where they'll print a face on the cakes for birthdays and celebrations, making it great for special occasions as well! 【TripAdvisor】Kawachiya https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298124-d1704426-Reviews-Kawachiya-Shizuoka_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Video introduction of "Wajima Morning Market" in Noto Peninsula, Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, one of the three major morning markets in Japan This video, titled "Ishikawa Wajima Morning Market - 4K Ultra HD" (Ishikawa Wajima Morning Market - 輪島朝市 - 4K Ultra HD) was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." It's a PR video for the Wajima Morning Market of Ishikawa Prefecture, located on the Noto Peninsula. The Wajima Morning Market is run by the Wajima City Morning Market Association (輪島市朝市組合) in the Koshinetsu region, and attracts many visitors as a tourist attraction on the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture, with fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan and traditional goods such as Wajima lacquerware. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Wajima, where the Wajima Morning Market is held, is the Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces, which has been selected as one of the Top 100 Terraced Rice Terraces in Japan, with 1,004 terraced rice paddies. After the morning market, visitors can also enjoy a stroll to Sojiji Temple. The Delicious Food of Wajima! Enjoy Seafood and Local Specialties From the Sea of Japan at the Wajima Morning Market! Photo：Wajima Morning Market, Wajima, Ishikawa As you can see from 0:45 in the video, the Wajima Morning Market has more than 200 stalls along the 360-meter-long street where the market is located. Vegetables, dried fish, and other goods are also available at reasonable prices, and are loved by visitors. The Wajima Morning Market takes place from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. and is visited by locals and tourists looking for fresh seafood, seafood bowls, and other delights. One of the attractions of the Wajima Morning Market is that visitors can walk around and try different snacks from all of the vendors in the area, from steamed buns to rice crackers and other local specialties. Visitors can also enjoy breakfast and lunch unique to the Wajima Morning Market, with its tasty seafood rice bowls, as well as cute sweets, such as Wajima pudding, a popular treat among women. The Wajima Morning Market is lined with many stores, each with its own unique characteristics, some of which have been around for over a thousand years. Some stores serve food prepared on the spot, so there's no shortage of things to enjoy at the Wajima Morning Market. Lacquerware and Folk Art in Wajima City! There's More Than Just Seafood! Photo：Wajima Lacquerware soup bowls Wajima is one of the largest cities on the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture. Because Wajima is located by the Sea of Japan, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, such as amberjack and seaperch at the Wajima Morning Market. Wajima is also famous for its kiriko lanterns, giant lanterns that look like portable shrines which are attached to sticks, and are recognized as a Japan Heritage. The traditional atmosphere of these lanterns is a great way to experience the culture of Wajima. The most popular tradition of Wajima is Wajima Lacquerware. The history of this lacquerware craft dates back to Japan's Heian period (794-1185 AD). Many pieces of lacquerware, the remains of the Heian period have been excavated from archaeological sites in Wajima, and Wajima Lacquerware is loved by many people both in Japan and abroad. The lacquerware is characterized by its sturdiness and luster, and is recommended not only as a meaningful gift but also as a souvenir together with yubeshi, a sweet yuzu-flavored wagashi (traditional Japanese sweet) from Nakauraya. Access to Wajima, Ishikawa Photo：Noto Airport (Noto-Satoyama Airport) It's about an hour from Tokyo to Noto Airport via plane. From Noto Airport, you can take a cab or bus to the center of Wajima. Another way to get to Wajima from Kanazawa Station is to rent a car and drive to the city. If you use the Wajima Morning Market Parking Lot, you can tour the city of Wajima while enjoying the Wajima Morning Market. Summary of the Wajima Morning Market, One of the Three Major Morning Markets in Japan The Wajima Morning Market introduced in the video and this article is one of the three largest morning markets in Japan, together with the Yobuko Morning Market in Saga Prefecture and the Katsuura Morning Market in Chiba Prefecture. The Wajima Morning Market is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Wajima Lacquerware, and other local specialties. Be sure to check out the video to experience some of the charms of the Wajima Morning Market! You'll definitely want to check out the Wajima Morning Market after seeing it! 【TripAdvisor】The Wajima Morning Market https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021242-d1384988-Reviews-Wajima_Morning_Market-Wajima_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html

Mehari-zushi – A Local Specialty Loved for Ages This video, titled "vlog｜Making "Mehari-zushi," a local dish of Kumano" (vlog | 熊野の郷土料理「めはり寿司), was uploaded by "manospun kitchen and garden." It introduces Mehari-zushi, a local specialty of Wakayama and Mie prefectures and how to make it. Mehari-zushi is a historical local dish that has been handed down from generation to generation in Japan's Kumano region. It is said to be one of the oldest "fast foods" in Japan, and this video will show you how it's made! Follow along with the video and learn how to make this delicious recipe from the comfort of your own home! More About Mehari-zushi, a Specialty of Japan's Kumano Region Photo：Mehari-zushi, a local cuisine from Japan's Kumano Region The name "mehari-zushi," comes from the phrase "Me wo Miharu" (目を見張る), meaning "to open one's eyes wide." This refers to the eye-popping expression made by people who see the size of the snack, one of the things that makes it unique. Rather than sushi, it might be more fitting to refer to mehari-zushi as giant rice balls, or a type of onigiri. The recipe is actually quite simple: pickle leaf mustard in salt and flavor it with a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and mirin (Japanese rice wine). Mehari-zushi has also been designated as an excellent souvenir recommended by Wakayama Prefecture, and is a specialty product of Japan's Kumano region and the Yoshino region of Nara Prefecture. Mehari-zushi bentos are sold in the Kumano region, and are often eaten by people working in the mountains or by farmers. Cut-up pieces of leaf mustard are packed into the balls of rice as well, making it a very flavorful delicacy. Mehari-zushi has been a local specialty for a long time, but it is now being sold in Ginza, Shinsaibashi, and other popular shopping areas in Tokyo and Osaka. The pioneer of this trend is Sohonke Mehariya, established in 1962. Sohonke Mehariya sells traditional Kumano specialty sushi from Wakayama Prefecture, and is famous nationwide for its mail-order and made-to-order services. Mehari-zushi – A Snack of Many Names Photo：Takana (leaf mustard) The main ingredients for Mehari-zushi are white rice, takana (leaf mustard), soy sauce, sake, and mirin (Japanese rice wine). When mehari-zushi was first being made, barley rice was used, but these days, white rice is the preferred choice. In some places, sushi rice is used instead of white rice, giving each region its own unique characteristics. It is simple to make, but you should keep in mind that it takes more than a week to pickle the mustard leaves, so it isn't exactly quick. You can see how mehari-zushi is made starting at 0:35 in the video. Mehari Sushi - Where to Try This Tasty Snack Photo：Kumano Hayatama Taisha Shrine, a World Heritage Site in Wakayama Prefecture For those who find making it at home a little too difficult, you can still enjoy real mehari-zushi at restaurants in Japan. In the vicinity of Kumano Hayatama Taisha Shrine and Kumano Kodo in Shingu, Wakayama, there are several restaurants that serve traditional mehari-zushi. If you're looking to enjoy the authentic atmosphere where this Wakayama delicacy is made, we highly recommend a visit! Summary of Mehari-zushi, a Local Specialty of Wakayama and Mie Prefectures Mehari-zushi is said to be one of the oldest "fast foods" in Japan. As you can see in the video, it's a simple recipe, but it's characterized by the time and effort it takes to pickle the mustard leaf, as well as the depth of flavor, making it the perfect sushi to bring with you when traveling. Be sure to check out the video to learn how to make your own mehari-zushi!

Video Introduction of Ryugin Japanese Cuisine in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo This video, titled "Japanese Cuisine—RyuGin Matsuba Crab Conference Report" (日本料理 龍吟 松葉蟹学会発表), was uploaded by "TOKYOGASTRONOMY." It introduces food presented by RyuGin at the "2016 World Cuisine Academic Meeting in Hakodate" (世界料理学会 in HAKODATE 2016) in September 2016. RyuGin is a Japanese restaurant situated in Hibiya, Tokyo. The restaurant offers a range of Japanese cuisine prepared with carefully selected ingredients, not least among which is Matsuba crab. At around 52 minutes, the video is on the long side, but there are dazzling skills on display, and a number of dishes using Matsuba crab. First, watch the video, and enjoy an introduction to the flavors of winter in Japan and the charms of Matsuba crab. What is Matsuba Crab? Photo：Matsuba crab Matsuba crab refers to male snow crabs caught in the San'in region of Tottori, Japan. Female snow crabs are referred to as "Seko crab" or "Koppe" in Japan. Snow crabs caught in Kyoto prefecture are known as Tsuiyama or Taiza crab, and crabs caught in Fukui prefecture are referred to as Echizen crab. As you may have noticed, the crabs are referred to by different names depending on where they were caught and whether they're male or female. Snow crabs generally belong to the Xanthidae family of crabs, but in some regions snow crabs belonging to the Oregoniidae family in certain regions are also referred to a Matsuba crab. A snow crab can be identified by its ten clawed feet, its long, slender legs, and its shell, which is small compared to its body as a whole. The crabs can be caught in the Sea of Japan's western area, as well as the area from Toyama prefecture north. They're also found in parts of the Pacific Ocean, such as the Sea of Ohkotsk and off the coast of the Sanriku region of Japan. Tasty Crab Soup From the Shell of a Matsuba Crab The video also shows delicious crab soup. Charcoal-grilled crab legs are added to stock produced by boiling the discarded shell of a Matsuba crab. You can almost smell the crab's fragrance coming from your screen. [Video] 6:13 - Crab Soup Shitamachi Katsushika Edo Dome – Seko Crab Beautifully Arranged in a Dish Made From Its Shell Source :YouTube screenshot Next up is a dish called "Shitamachi Katsushika Edo Dome" (下町葛飾江戸ドーム). This dish brings out the deep flavor of the Matsuba crab's female counterpart, the seko crab. The way RyuGin arranges this crab, with special tin tableware is nothing short of art. The dish is then carried to customers on a dome and platter made using traditional Japanese crafts, such as Wajima-nuri (a type of lacquerware from Wajima, Ishikawa) and Edo Kiriko (a type of cut glass from Asakusa, Tokyo). [Video] 9:20 - Shitamachi Katsushika Edo Dome Itsukiboshi, a Super-Sized Matsuba Crab Next up is "Itsukiboshi" (五輝星). Among Matsuba crabs, these are some of the biggest. Their size is enough to be easily noticeable even via the medium of video. Arranged in its bowl, the crab sashimi is, in a word, beautiful. Served with crab miso ponzu (ponzu is a sauce made from vinegar and bitter orange), it's simply delicious. [Video] 15:13 - Itsukiboshi Enjoy Matsuba Crab Pincers to the Full with "Banshu-yaki" Source :YouTube screenshot This fried crab dish using only the pincers is known as "Banshu-yaki" (播州焼) at RyuGin. This aromatic fried crab has tones of yuzu (a citrus fruit grown in Japan), and is served with crab miso. "Banshu" (播州) is an old name for what is now Hyogo prefecture. Hyogo is known as the number one supplier of Japanese crab, and crab pincers are familiar to many as a Banshu specialty. [Video] 18:50 - Banshu-yaki, Using Only Crab Pincers The RyuGin Burger, a Decadent Hamburger Using Matsuba Crab Next is a slightly eccentric dish, called the "RyuGin Burger." Matsutake mushrooms take the place of the bread, and Matsuba crab is used for the patty. Have you ever heard of such a decadent burger? What makes this burger so special is the "an" (a thick starchy sauce) made using Matsuba crab stock, which really brings out the Matsuba crab's flavor. [Video] 22:03 - RyuGin Burger Matsu x Matsu Shabu – Emphasizing the Crab's Umami Flavors Moving on is a dish called "Matsu x Matsu Shabu." This shabu-shabu (a Japanese hotpot dish with thinly sliced meat and vegetables) dish makes use of stock from Matsuba crab and Matsutake mushrooms. The dish is full of special artisan touches, such as the use of a Matsuba crab's shell in place of the pot, and more. Once you start to pick up the scent of cooking Matsutake mushrooms, it's time to put the Matsuba crab into the pot. [Video] 26:13 - Japanese Crab Shabu-Shabu Wakamatsuba, the Irresistible Sweetness of Young Matsuba Crab Source :YouTube screenshot "Wakamatsuba" (若松葉) is the name for younger Matsuba-crabs, and when translated to English literally means "young Matsuba." These younger crabs have soft, edible shells. You can see the Wakamatsuba crab meat arranged gorgeously on its shell in the video. Shirasu – Stunning Deep Fried Wakamatsuba Crab Tempura "Shirasu" (白砂) refers to Wakamatsuba crab tempura (a type of deep frying technique using batter). Every single detail—not just the batter that envelops the Wakamatsuba crab, but the method and timing of the boiling and deep frying stages, and type of oil used—has been honed to a fine-art. [Video] 33:45 - Matsuba Crab Tempura The Matsuba crab and Matsutake mushroom tempura rice bowl is not to be missed, either! Anrakuyaki – Bringing Out the Irresistibly Rich Flavor of Crab Miso and Cheese Anrakuyaki (安楽焼) is a dish that combines the rich flavors of crab miso and caciocavallo cheese. The melted cheese is sure to get your tastebuds tingling. The flavor is improved even further with "uchiko" and "sotoko," the Seko crab's eggs. [Video] 38:43 - Japanese Crab and Cheese "Anrakuyaki" Matsuba Seiko – A Combination of the Crab's Umami Flavors and Matsutake Mushrooms Source :YouTube screenshot "Matsuba Seiko" (松葉聖子) is a rice dish with Seko crab and Matsutake mushrooms. You can enjoy every part of the Seko crab with this dish, along with the Matsutake mushrooms, which are cut into bite-size pieces. [Video] 44:53 - A Final Dish with Japanese Crab and Matsutake Mushrooms You can watch the Matsuba Seiko being prepared with all the ingredients in a single pot in the video. Notice the use of truffles to round the dish off. Summary of Japanese Restaurant RyuGin – A Wide Range of Luxurious Matsuba Crab Dishes Matsuba crab can be eaten in a variety of ways, including as sashimi, sukiyaki, char-grilled, and roasted in its shell. It wouldn't be a stretch to say that Matsuba crab is essential to any conversation about Japanese cuisine. Next time you visit Japan, be it for sightseeing or other reasons, why not try a dish made with Matsuba crab? If you plan to eat at "RyuGin," we recommend you book in advance. The Matsuba crab with Japanese-grown Matsutake costs around ¥100,000, (before tax), but prices can vary according to the market. These truly sumptuous dishes are a veritable art-form. If you've got a big budget, we recommend giving it a try. 【Official Website】Japanese Restaurant RyuGin 【TripAdvisor】Japanese Restaurant RyuGin

Introducing Kashimayari Snow Resort in Nagano Prefecture This video, titled “鹿島槍スキー場公式PV　HAKUBAVALLEY kashimayari snow resort” was uploaded by “KashimayariSV.” It’s the official video for Kashimayari Snow Resort! Hakuba, located in the Japanese Alps on the outskirts of Nagano City, is one of the most popular ski areas in Japan. Kashimayari Snow Resort shown in the video is located in the easily accessible Hakuba area, and from the slopes you can see Mt. Kashimayari, Mt. Jiigatake, and other mountains located in the Northern Alps of Japan. The ski resort is full of nature, with monkeys and Japanese serows also present in the area. The slopes have plenty of high-quality snow, dynamic courses, and a park with rails and banks for snowboarding. In addition, there are restaurants, outdoor baths, and lodging facilities at Kashimayari Snow Resort. A Closer Look at Kashimayari Snow Resort! Photo：Skiing Kashimayari Snow Resort is located on the Kashimayari Kurosawa Plateau in Omachi, Nagano, and offers more than 10 different courses. At 0:32 in the video, you can see the "Ippon Buna Downhill Course." Near the end of the course is the Nakatsuna Freestyle Park, a snowboard park. You can also enjoy a longer trail with the whopping 5,000-meter-long "Long Downhill Course." There is also the "Shimasaka Kids Park" for small children and a daycare center. Alpine Inn Kashimayari is introduced at 0:59 of the video. It has a restaurant where you can eat, "Gelespo," a store you can enjoy inside the ski resort, stores where you can buy local souvenirs, and an outdoor hot spring bath on the roof where you can relax and enjoy the view of the surrounding mountains. In addition, directly-managed accommodations are available, including reasonably priced dormitories and group rooms for those traveling in groups. There is also a special package deal that includes lodging at a nearby hotel and a lift ticket! Visit with your family and enjoy the luxury of a relaxing soak in the hot springs after skiing the snowy mountains. Sightseeing Information for Kashimayari Snow Resort Photo：Shinano-Omachi Station, Oito Line To get to Kashimayari Snow Resort, besides driving to the resort, you can also take a train to Shinano-Omachi Station on the Oito Line and take the free shuttle bus with no reservations required. There is also a free shuttle bus that runs from Matsumoto and Nagano if you purchase a lift ticket (reservation required). The lifts are generally open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with night skiing also available. In addition, ski and snowboard rentals and lift tickets can be reserved online. Summary of Kashimayari Snow Resort This video introduced all the charms of Kashimayari Snow Resort in Nagano Prefecture. You might even run into Shimashika-kun, the local mascot, if you’re lucky! If you're considering visiting Kashimayari Snow Resort and want to see the facilities, slopes, etc. that it has to offer, be sure to check out the video! 【Official Website】Kashimayari Sports Village (Kashimayari Snow Resort) https://www.hakuba1.com/english/ski_resort/129 【TripAdvisor】Kashimayari Sports Village https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021316-d2638047-Reviews-Kashimayari_Sports_Village-Omachi_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html