Tummy Travels Japan
First Japanese Ramen in Shinjuku Tokyo
Japan—Where Do I Even Begin?
Four days in Tokyo, six in Kyoto, then off to the snowfields—a whirlwind trip that barely scratched the surface! As always, my travels revolved around food, much to the frustration of my family, who followed me from ramen bars to dessert cafés in search of that perfect bite. Like any adventure, there were highs and lows, but here are some of my absolute favourites:
Investment Piece: JAPANESE KNIVES
I gifted myself some stunning handmade Japanese knives with walnut handles, crafted by a master craftsman from Yoshusada in Kyoto. They kindly engraved "Kato" (my name) on the blades and delivered them safely to my hotel. If you're not traveling but would love some of your own, Japanese style eatery,Peko Peko,has imported a limited number and has them available to purchase. I'll be treasuring mine for life.
The Best Sashimi: EVER!
The best sashimi I had was from the Nishiki Markets in Kyoto . The semi-fatty tuna nigiri (slice of tuna on on hand-rolled rice) was generous in size, melt-in-your-mouth, and washed down perfectly with ice-cold sake (sold throughout the markets for $1 a glass). Heaven!
Kyoto's Famous Desserts:
Kyoto is famous for its desserts, and I wasn't leaving without indulging. I wandered into the old area of Gion to Ex Cafe and had a glorious parfait in a glass. It combined black honey kinako ice cream & purple sweet potato ice cream (both soy-based), dango (mochi-like sweet balls made from glutinous rice), sweet beans, and a fine yet punchy ginger biscuit. Mind-blowingly good.
Another spot I was recommended was Nikechaya
Ramen:
I could write a book! But..in short, there are a variety of ramen styles, and usually, you'll have to line up for the good spots. Good news: the lines move quickly. It's not a leisurely long lunch—get in, get your ramen, slurp, leave! Hot tip: don't order dipping noodles then pour the soup over them. Dipping means dipping. Grab the dry noodles and dip them in the concentrated broth before shoveling them in. (I may have done the former.) My favorite Ramen was the first Tokyo spot I hunted down, where I enjoyed a Pork Bone Broth Ramen. Take me back to Machidaya!
A Few More Bites:
● Try Genmaicha: Green tea with toasted brown rice. Savory and delicious.
● Dive into the whisky offering: Japan does it so well. I loved sipping on whisky in naughty, dimly lit small bars in an area called “Drunkards Alley” in Tokyo.. Look it up.
● Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast in Kyoto: Usually some combination of steamed rice, miso soup, eggs, grilled fish, and pickled vegetables. I was recommended Sagan, in Gion old town, which I loved.
● 7-Eleven: Yes, it is pretty amazing in Japan. My kids lived there! Always great for a rice cake (onigiri) or soft white bread sandwich, crust off, among all the other treasures.
● Hit up the basement food halls: Beneath each major shopping centre, they are a labyrinth of fabulous local food, both fresh and prepared, and often have food outlets mixed in.
● Grilled Mochi…it’s a thing. Mochi is huge in Japan, especially during holiday celebrations. Try mochi grilled over a coal BBQ. It’s deliciously, chewy, sweet and smoky.
● Pickled vegetables…are a staple and are often served in place of fresh veggies or salad. They add such a delightful crunch and zing to bento boxes, breakfast trays and come in all shapes sizes and colours…just like fresh veggies.
