Ting-ting

Jun. 1, 2026
[Image1]Speaking of Atami, besides the hot springs, there's now another must-visit reason—buying the
[Image2]Speaking of Atami, besides the hot springs, there's now another must-visit reason—buying the

Speaking of Atami, besides the hot springs, there's now another must-visit reason—buying the "Youichian's Atami Butter An."

This shop's signature item is a round, fluffy cream-filled red bean bread, with a thin, airy crust. Inside, it contains homemade red bean paste, complemented by a layer of creamy frosting.

The bread is light and elastic, and the most surprising part is the cream—it doesn't have that overly sweet taste, instead offering a hint of saltiness that adds depth to the overall flavor.

When it comes to red bean paste, Japanese sweets can sometimes be overly sweet, but here, the sweetness is well-balanced, and you can actually taste the texture of the beans. Even someone like me, who usually doesn't have a particular fondness for red bean paste, found this bread irresistible.

At the checkout, I initially thought one or two would be enough, but after the first bite, my only reaction was: why didn't I buy more?

Next time I visit Atami, the first thing I'll probably do is rush here to stock up.

This text has been automatically translated.
Show original text Hide original text
Next social media post
Jun. 15, 2026
In June, Kagawa Prefecture not only boasts the azure scenery of the Seto Inland Sea but also welcomes the blooming season of hydrangeas at Mt. Shiude in Mitoyo City. As you slowly ascend the winding mountain road, you can see blue, purple, and pink hydrangeas adorning both sides of the path, as if draping a soft colorful garment over early summer. Upon reaching the observation deck at the summit, the breathtaking view unfolds before you. The islands of the Seto Inland Sea scatter across the horizon, appearing especially clear against the bright sky, while the blooming hydrangeas reflect the colors of the sea and sky, creating a unique and stunning landscape of Mt. Shiude. A gentle breeze passes through, causing the flowers to sway lightly, and the air is filled with the fresh scent unique to the rainy season, prompting you to slow down and savor the tranquility of nature. Strolling along the pathways, you can frequently discover various species of hydrangeas competing for attention, attracting many photography enthusiasts to stop and capture the scene. Compared to the crowds during cherry blossom season, early summer at Mt. Shiude feels more leisurely and relaxed, allowing visitors to enjoy both the floral and coastal vistas at their own pace. If you have the chance to visit Kagawa in June, consider planning a trip to Mt. Shiude. Surrounded by the vibrant hydrangeas and breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, experience the most charming essence of early summer in Japan.
Previous social media post
Apr. 27, 2026
On a quiet street in the eastern part of Kagawa Prefecture, there is a udon shop called "Marutatsu." This place is not like the typical busy udon restaurants; it feels more like a refined experience of local culture. Upon entering, the space is bright and spacious, allowing one to relax and savor the moment. I ordered a bowl of the signature udon, and the first thing I noticed was the presence of the noodles themselves. Made from Kagawa Prefecture's wheat "Sanuki no Yume," the noodles are both chewy and elastic, sliding smoothly and offering a delightful texture that showcases the vitality of hand-made noodles. Next comes the soul of the dish: the broth. Made from small dried fish caught around Ibukijima in the Seto Inland Sea, the broth carries a profound umami flavor with a clear finish. Adding local specialties from Higashikagawa, such as Sanuki and wasanbon sugar, enhances the overall taste with a layer of warmth and smoothness. The sweetness is not overpowering; it gently highlights the umami of the fish, making it hard to resist drinking it down in one go. This bowl of noodles can almost be said to be a microcosm of Higashikagawa. From local wheat and catches from Ibukijima to traditional wasanbon sugar, every element is closely connected to the land and culture. A simple bowl of udon, yet it embodies respect for the ingredients and a deep affection for the region. When I left, I felt that I had not just eaten a bowl of noodles, but had also taken a flavorful journey through the landscape of Kagawa.