050110 bentobox

Japanese Culture | Hot Spots | Products

| Food

May 2017

No. 27 FREE www.bentoboxmag.ca NOT YOUR AVERAGE RAMEN

Change your view on this staple Japanese dish at Ramen Raijin KAMAKURA’S NATURAL WONDERS

Beautiful beaches and misty forests just outside Tokyo

Feature

Take the lunch break you deserve

What’s for Lunch? >Page 4

Contents May 2017 No.27

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This special 10-course meal will show you 10 ways to delight your senses

04

Feature: What’s for lunch?

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Restaurant: There’s more to ramen than tonkotsu

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Products: Bring the party wherever you go

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Ingredient: Some like it hot

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Kampai Toronto: Cheers to Toronto’s premier sake event

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Travel: Kamakura–Touch nature right outside Tokyo

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Only in Japan: Sleepy-time capsule

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MUJI picks: Mother’s Day gift ideas

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Next Music from Tokyo: A unique live music experience

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:[HɈ WPJR YLZ[H\YHU[! A truly enchanting evening

EDITOR’S NOTE

Nina Hoeschele

Brighten up your lunch box Whether you’re planning to have an extravagant picnic or just trying to cheer up `V\Y TPKKH` IYLHR MYVT [OL VŃ?JL 1HWHULZL J\PZPUL PZ I\YZ[PUN ^P[O HSS [OL S\UJO PUZWPYH[PVU `V\ ULLK 0U [OPZ PZZ\L ^L OH]L H SVVR H[ ZVTL VM [OL JVU]LUPLU[ U\[YP[PV\Z HUK KV^UYPNO[ ILH\[PM\S 1HWHULZL S\UJO VW[PVUZ [OH[ HYL H]HPSHISL YPNO[ here in our city.

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Editors 5PUH /VLZJOLSL (THUKH 7S`SL` @\TP 5PZOPV Editorial coordinators 5PUH /VLZJOLSL @\TP 5PZOPV Writers (THUKH 7S`SL` (YPLS 3P[[LSQVOU 4 *YV^ZVU 5PJOVSHZ 1VULZ 5PUH 3LL :HYHO +PJRZVU :`S]LZ[LY 7PSNYPT Designers *OP`HRV 4\RHP 9LPRV ,TH Photographer Kazu Maruyama Production assistants 2HYPU @VZOPKH 3PZH ;V^LY Advertisement & marketing Kazu Maruyama Publisher Kazu Maruyama

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Feature

ă Ąă‚‡ă Łă ¨ć ŻćŠœă ?ă —ă &#x;ă „ć—Ľă ŽăƒŠăƒłăƒ ă Żă€ ĺ‘łă Żă‚‚ă Ąă‚?ă‚“ç›Žă §ă‚‚ćĽ˝ă —ă‚€ć—ĽćœŹ éŁ&#x;。

By Amanda Plyley

What’s for Lunch?

PB&J be gone! Well-balanced and [HZ[` ^P[O H Ă…HPY MVY [OL HY[PZ[PJ Japanese lunches conveniently go HIV]L HUK IL`VUK `V\Y \Z\HS midday meal.

Kingyo Izakaya akaya

Assorted Deluxe Bento $19 + tax Kingyo’s famous Makunouchi Bento! In Japan, a 4HR\UV\JOP )LU[V \Z\HSS` JVUZPZ[Z VM Ă„ZO TLH[ LNNZ ZO TLH[ LNNZ and vegetables along with rice and pickles. les. With this ZWLJPHS S\UJO `V\ NL[ LPNO[ KPɈLYLU[ KPZOLZ VY OLZ VY with apps) that are switched up every few ew days. It’s no wonder Kingyo calls this bento the “King of Lunchâ€?!

Expect anything from karaage to tofu salad to pork kakuni ‌ and so much more.

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Kingyo Izakaya >PUJOLZ[LY :[ ;VYVU[V c c ^^^ RPUN`V[VYVU[V JH 67,5! +HPS` ! HTÂś WT SHZ[ JHSS WT ! WTÂś ! WT

When the clock strikes noon in the midst of your busy day at work or school, what do you typically grab for lunch? Perhaps you settle for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or last night’s SLM[V]LYZ ^HYTLK \W PU [OL VѝJL TPJYV^H]L VY maybe just a quick hotdog purchased from a nearby street vendor. If you’re feeling like your lunch could use a little “oomph” these days, why not try bento?

Bento or Japanese lunch—the “bento box,” as many of us know it—is a creative take on an alltoo-often mundane midday meal. With origins dating back to the Kamakura period of 12thcentury Japan, the term “bento” stems from a Chinese slang term meaning “convenient”—and

anyone who has had one can attest that bento boxes are not only true to their name but also meticulously organized, beautifully presented and impressively nutritious.

monuments. And the boxes themselves are not too shabby, either—many bento box vendors sell specially designed commemorative boxes during major holidays or notable events.

;YHKP[PVUHSS` JVUZPZ[PUN VM YPJL TLH[ VY ÄZO and a hearty helping of vegetables, Japanese S\UJOLZ OH]L KP]LYZPÄLK V]LY [OL `LHYZ 0U today’s bento boxes, for example, you might ÄUK OHYK IVPSLK LNNZ VY soba noodles instead.

The lunch box contents have esthetically evolved, too: kyaraben (character bento) and oekakibento (picture bento) are wildly popular among children and adults alike for their artistically arranged ingredients depicting adorable anime characters, plants, animals and famous

These days, whether you’re grabbing lunch in Toronto or Tokyo, bento won’t always come in a box. Japanese lunch extends beyond the boxed meals we know and love to other forms such as curries, soups, rice dishes like katsu-don and grilled meals like teppanyaki. And if you’re really in a hurry, you might grab a palm-sized onigiri, VY [YPHUNSL ZOHWLK YPJL IHSS Z[\ќLK ^P[O [YLH[Z inside. Whichever form of Japanese lunch you choose, you’re sure to notice an added pep in your step all afternoon.

Try our Toronto lunch picks

MeNami

Dondeki $13 + tax Have you ever tried pork jowls? For those seeking king something new in their lunch, these pork cheeks ks are a delicious option. At MeNami, Dondeki is one off the most popular lunches on the menu. Marinated with teriyaki sauce and oven-baked, the dish (which is leaner er than most pork options) comes with sliced cabbage with spicy dressing, steamed rice, pickles and a small bowl of MeNami’s famous udon noodles.

MeNami 5469 Yonge St., North York | 416-229-6191 | www.menami.ca 67,5! 4VU¶:H[ ! HT¶ ! HT :\U ! HT¶ HT

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Ichiriki JJapanese apanese Restaurant R est sta tau aur ura ran ant nt

Lunch Special $15 + tax If you’re having a hard time deciding what to eat, Ichiriki’s lunch special is for you! In this satisfying meal at a satisfying price, you can choose between delicious salmon, chicken, beef or pork over rice. If that’s not enough for you, this meal also comes with three pieces of salmon sashimi and two California roll pieces, an appetizer dish, miso soup and a salad.

Ichiriki Japanese Restaurant 120 Bloor St. E., Toronto | 416-923-2997 | www.ichiriki.ca 67,5! 4VU ! HT¶ WT ! WT¶ WT ;\LZ ! HT¶ WT >LK¶-YP ! HT¶ WT ! WT¶ WT :H[ ! WT¶ WT :\U JSVZLK

Savour something Funé

Japanese Restaurant

Katsu-Don $16 + tax Located in the heart of Toronto’s theatre district, a pleasant surprise awaits: aits: a warm bowl of deep-fried breaded pork cutlet, Spanish onion and egg stewed in sauce, ce, served over a bed of rice, with an accompaniment of miso soup and salad. If you’re seeking a cosy and hearty lunch break, Funé’s Katsu-Don is a perfect choice.

Funé Japanese Restaurant 100 Simcoe St., Toronto | 416-599-3868 | www.funerestaurant.com 67,5! 4VU¶;O\YZ ! HT¶ ! WT WT¶ WT -YP ! HT¶ ! WT WT WT¶ ! WT :H[ WT¶ ! WT :\U WT¶ WT

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Nami

Japanese Restaurant

Robata Special B (Fish and Yakitori) $22 + tax Nami’s Robata Special is perfect for the seafood lover! Nami’s masterful chefs use OPNO X\HSP[` JH[JOLZ [V WYLWHYL `V\ H S\UJO ^P[O `V\Y JOVPJL VM NYPSSLK ÄZO ;OL TLHS also comes with two yakitori skewers alongside either teriyaki or salt, a small salad, miso soup and a bowl of steamed rice served with Japanese pickles. This lunch will have you loosening your belt!

Nami Japanese Restaurant 55 Adelaide St. E., Toronto | 416-362-7373 | www.namirestaurant.ca 67,5! 4VUÂś-YP ! HTÂś WT ! WTÂś WT ŕ Ž :H[ ! WTÂś WT ŕ Ž :\U JSVZLK

new and nutritious Yamato Japanese Restaurant

Sirloin and Shrimp $17 + tax Teppanyaki is a style of interactive Japanese cooking that sees ingredients seared in front of you on an iron griddle. If you’re on the hunt for a satisfying lunch and a fun experience to go with it, try Yamato’s Sirloin and Shrimp Teppanyaki entrÊe! It’s prepared right at your table and comes with Japanese clear onion soup, freshly grilled vegetables and steamed rice.

Yamato Japanese Restaurant 24 Bellair St., Toronto | 416-927-0077 | yamatorestaurant.ca 67,5! 4VUÂś-YP ! HTÂś WT WTÂś WT ŕ Ž :H[Âś:\U WTÂś WT

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Hot Spot | Ramen Raijin

By Nicholas Jones

There’s more than just tonkotsu Ready to enjoy a delicious update of a Japanese staple?

Ramen Raijin is taking Toronto ramen to the next level.

Tokyo Shoyu Ramen Co-owner Hiroshi’s favourite, and the perfect balance of chicken broth and H Z[YVUNLY ÅH]V\Y

Hungry for more? Let’s dig in!

Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen Raijin’s #1 selling bowl, with the richness of tonkotsu and just enough spice.

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Ramen and Donburi Combo

Gyokai Tonkotsu Shoyu

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Bento box -HY TVYL WVY[HISL [OHU YHTLU ;Y` VUL VM [OL KLSP JPV\Z ILU[V IV_LZ WYLWHYLK MYLZO MVY [HRLV\[

Ramen Raijin www.zakkushi.com/raijin TEL: 647-348-0667 >LSSLZSL` :[ > 9LHY ;VYVU[V

A surprisingly tasty twist on a classic, enriched with seafood oil.

67,5! :\U¶;O\YZ ! HT¶ HT -YP¶:H[ ! HT¶ HT *Yoshida Shoten open daily from 8 am

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Tech spotlight

SRS-XB40 Take the party with you wherever you go. With its pulsating neon light and booming bass, Sony’s SRS-XB40 will make you an instant hit anywhere friends are gathered.

Portable Wireless BLUETOOTH® Speaker

I’ve recently had the opportunity to sample some beats on the Sony SRS-XB40 portable wireless speaker. For being such a small unit, I must say that I was thoroughly impressed.

It’s a well-designed little sound system in both JVTWH[PIPSP[` HUK LZ[OL[PJZ! MVY ]PZ\HS ÅHPY P[ features a neon light around the periphery of the device’s face that pulsates in time with the music being played.

Flashing lights aside, the sound quality is fantastic. The SRS-XB40 has two full-range speakers and an extra bass function that adds rich, driving volume to whatever you are listening to. In addition, the system automatically adjusts the settings to guarantee incredibly clear sound. It’s not only great for music, but also for providing sound for movies and games.

Being water-resistant, you can take it virtually anywhere: the poolside, the beach or even to hang out with your clumsy friend who always spills drinks on everything. If they happen to have a unit as well, it’s even better because you can connect the two speakers to amp up the sound. In fact, up to 10 wireless speakers can actually be connected using Wireless Party Chain.

Superior Bluetooth connection Sony’s improved Bluetooth connection allows you to transfer nearly three times more data (at over 900 kbps) than traditional Bluetooth connections.

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By Sylvester Pilgrim

Since not everyone might have the same musical taste, you can also connect up to three devices via Bluetooth and take turns controlling

the selection. It’s a great way to keep the party going and make everyone happy.

This ingenious little device also lets you hook up your smartphone by way of USB to charge the battery so your phone won’t die before the party ends. Speaking of batteries, the Sony SRS-XB40 has a battery life of up to 24 hours HUK P[ HSZV UV[PÄLZ `V\ ^P[O ]VPJL MLLKIHJR when it needs to be recharged.

All in all, if you are looking for an incredible buy at a reasonable price, I highly recommend the Sony SRS-XB40 speaker. It will make you the life of the party and the envy of your friends, and with Sony’s reputation for quality, it’s a purchase that you will not regret.

Sony SRS-XB40 Portable Wireless BLUETOOTH® Speaker $319.99 Available at www.sony.ca

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Ingredient | Wasabi

By Amanda Plyley

解毒効果で健康促進！ 鼻にツ∼ンと来る わさびの意外な力。

primarily stimulates the nasal passages—which can be either desirable or downright painful.

Luckily the intense burning sensation is shortlived and can be washed away with food and drink, but just how strong is it while it lasts?

Notable enough that a team of Japanese researchers once experimented with the idea of using wasabi vapours as the primary component in a smoke alarm for the deaf.

Wasabi 山葵

【わさび】

Some like it hot Go green with this super spicy condiment if you dare, but brace yourself—and your sinuses.

If you’ve ever eaten sushi, particularly in a highend restaurant, chances are you’ve noticed H IYPNO[ NYLLU WHZ[L \UKLY [OL ÄZO VY VU [OL table. Vibrant in colour and smooth in texture, this saucy ingredient’s appearance isn’t far from that of guacamole or even green tea ice cream—but that’s where the similarities end.

Before you take a bite, prepare yourself for the potent pungency of wasabi.

Boasting a long history, wasabi is a plant of the Brassicaceae family, which also includes cab-

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bage, mustard and horseradish. In fact, wasabi is sometimes called “Japanese horseradish,” and in Japanese, horseradish is referred to as seiyo (Western) wasabi. The two are comparable in their sharp taste and smell due to similar isothiocyanate levels—and when either plant is grated or ground down, enzymes escape through ruptured cells, producing complex chemical mixtures and vapours otherwise known as a wild ride for your nasal cavity.

That’s right: you’ll feel it in your nose. Unlike spices that target your tastebuds, wasabi

So, if you’re familiar with wasabi and you’ve been nodding along thus far, here is the unfortunate truth: you may have never actually tasted real wasabi. (Sorry!) As a picky plant that MH]V\YZ ZWLJPÄJ NYV^PUN JVUKP[PVUZ ^HZHIP PZ UV[VYPV\ZS` KPѝJ\S[ [V J\S[P]H[L SLH]PUN producers unable to keep up with commercial KLTHUK 0[»Z YHYL [V ÄUK YLHS ^HZHIP WSHU[Z outside of Japan, and some products labelled as “wasabi” are really a mixture of horseradish, mustard, starch and spinach powder. (Others are a mix of authentic wasabi with some of these ingredients.) Even in Japan cultivation JHU IL KPѝJ\S[ ^P[O PKLHS JVUKP[PVUZ SPTP[LK [V wet, mild and shady spots like mountainside riverbanks and stream beds. For this reason, visitors to Azumino in Nagano Prefecture are apt to tour Daio Wasabi Farm, the largest wasabi farm in Japan.

0M `V\»YL HISL [V ÄUK YLHS ^HZHIP P[ ^PSS IL PU VUL of three forms: paste, powder or the stem itself. ;YHKP[PVUHSS` PU VYKLY [V NYH[L [OL Z[LT HZ ÄULS` as possible, Japanese chefs used a tool made of shark skin. Nowadays, most people use a metal or ceramic wasabi oroshigane (grater) to turn the stem into a paste. In some high-end restaurants, the stem is ground and the paste prepared only once the customer has ordered— and then it must be consumed swiftly, because \UJV]LYLK ^HZHIP SVZLZ P[Z ÅH]V\Y PU Q\Z[ ÄM[LLU minutes. If you have a chance to taste wasabi this fresh, don’t pass it up—especially if your sinuses are due to be cleared. Dig in!

Kampai Toronto Festival of Sake Cheers to Toronto’s premier sake event, back for another year with more to enjoy than ever before.

Kampai Toronto, Canada’s largest sake festival, is back for another year in Toronto’s Distillery Historic District. This year’s event is focused on highlighting “the new face of sake culture,” bringing the centuries-old tradition of sake brewing and enjoyment into the modern era.

Presented by the Sake Institute of Ontario, the event will bring together over 150 sakes from more than 50 breweries, guaranteeing there will be something for every palate. And this year’s event is not just featuring sake, either. Participating food vendors will include a selection of Toronto’s top chefs serving up delectable dishes to complement Kampai’s array of featured drinks.

The sixth annual event celebrating Japan’s preferred potable has also added a few special features that are sure to make this year’s event even more exciting than the last. This year, organizers will be adding an adjacent outdoor market along historic Gristmill Lane, featuring music and crafts designed to showcase sake culture in Japan. Additionally, organizers are promising that guests at this year’s event will be treated to more than a few surprises. The event is guaranteed to be an exciting opportunity to experience Japanese culture and expand your palate.

Kampai Toronto is being held on June 1 at The Fermenting Cellar. Tickets sell out every year, HUK [OPZ `LHY PZ SPRLS` [V IL UV KPќLYLU[ ^P[O 600 people expected to attend. Make sure to pick up your tickets soon!

Kampai Toronto 2017 Date: Thursday, June 1, 5:30 pm–9:30 pm Location: The Fermenting Cellar, 28 Distillery Ln. The Distillery District, Toronto More info: kampaitoronto.com

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Travel | Kamakura

By Nina Lee

歴史の薫り漂う街と武士文化を感じる寺社仏閣。 山に囲まれ海を望む古都。

Kamakura When you think of Japan, oceanfront beach Welcome to a place O\[Z Z\YÄUN VYNHUPJ YLZ[H\YHU[Z OPWWPLZ HUK yoga sessions don’t immediately come where you can touch sunrise to mind. Welcome to Kamakura, the laidback HU[PKV[L [V [OL I\Z[SPUN JVUJYL[L Q\UNSL VM nature, caress the Tokyo. Located less than an hour away by train, 2HTHR\YH PZ Q\Z[ HZ MHTV\Z MVY P[Z ILHJOLZ HZ P[ ocean and embrace is for the Daibutsu of Kamakura, a giant statue VM (TPKH )\KKOH the mountains ...

Shop ’til you drop and just outside of Tokyo. eat ’til you burst After disembarking from the train, visitors are beckoned to Komachi Street, located across from Kamakura Station. Komachi Street is home to restaurants, bars, street food stalls and numerous shops. Try some of the dishes featur-

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©ACWorks

ing the local delicacy, shirasu (young sardines).

It’s often served tempura-style, cooked in takoyaki, raw in sushi, either raw or boiled on rice, or as a topping on ramen. Don’t forget to cleanse your palate afterwards with dango (sweet rice dumplings), purple sweet potato softserve ice cream or chocolate croquettes! >HSR Vќ `V\Y TLHS I` ]PZP[PUN ZVTL VM [OL THU` temples located within walking distance of KaTHR\YH :[H[PVU ;Z\Y\NHVRH /HJOPTHUN΍ ZOYPUL is nearby, dedicated to Hachiman, the guardians of warriors. The shrine was established in 1063 and today houses numerous national [YLHZ\YLZ 2LUJOͻ QP ZP[Z ULHYI` HUK JSHPTZ [V be Japan’s oldest Zen monastery. The temple PZ \UPX\L ^P[O P[Z JLU[\YPLZ VSK Q\UPWLY [YLLZ HUK Z[H[\L VM 1Paͻ )VZH[Z\ [OL ZH]PV\Y VM SVZ[ ZV\SZ

Discover hidden trails, ancient tombs and misty bamboo forests

Just a hop from the city

A short walk will bring visitors to Engaku-ji, an impressive multi-storey temple structure sitting on stilts surrounded by gardens.

Majestic sights along Kamakura’s trails Heading back a few stops past Kamakura Station, visit the Daibutsu of Kamakura, an 11-metre-tall Buddha statue completed in HUK SVJH[LK H[ 2͝[VR\ PU [LTWSL 0UP[PHSS` enshrined inside a great hall, the Amida Buddha now watches over the region after earthquakes and tsunamis destroyed the original building in (IV\[ H OHSM OV\Y ^HSR H^H` /͝RVR\ QP temple sits between the Ten-en and Gionyama hiking trails, and features a tranquil bamboo garden and a teahouse.

Kamakura maintains numerous hiking courses that bring visitors to out-of-the-way and majestic sights. The Ten-en trail winds among the hills and valleys on the northern edges of the city, and it leads hikers past several yagura tomb caves, housing the remains of samurai and regents. The Daibutsu trail leads visitors from Kita-Kamakura Station to the great Daibutsu through forested valleys and past natural springs. Walk the eastern hills along the Gionyama trail, which connects several temples, shrines and the Harakiri yagura tomb caves. This trail is located close to Kamakura Station, and hikers are rewarded with lovely views overlooking the city.

-ji Engaku Temple

Kamakura ă€?éŽŒĺ€‰ă€‘ Kamakura is located in Kanagawa Prefecture, between Yokohama and Shizuoka. Located less than an hour west of Tokyo, Kamakura is an ideal day trip during a visit to the capital.

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Travel | Kamakura

Enjoy sun, surf and sand with the locals Kamakura is bordered by mountains, valleys and Sagami Bay. Visiting Kamakura without visiting the beach is unthinkable. Amateur and WYVMLZZPVUHS Z\YMLYZ ÅVJR [V ILHJOLZ MLK ^P[O steady waves and saltwater spray from the 7HJPÄJ 6JLHU 3VJHS Z\YM JHTWZ VќLY JSHZZLZ VU the city’s three beaches: Zaimokuza, Yuigahama and Koshigoe. Zaimokuza beach sits nestled in a calm cove, with tide pools during low tide. Koshigoe is near a harbour, where local restaurants sell freshly caught seafood. If you prefer organic, macrobiotic, hemp-based or vegetarian fare, you won’t have to venture far from the beach, with numerous restaurants on the boardwalks and along the coastal roads. Regardless of which beach you visit, don’t forget to pack your yoga mat to welcome the morning sun or pick up a watermelon to play suikawari. Similar to the piñata, suikawari is a traditional game that invites participants to split a watermelon in half with a stick while blindfolded.

Kamakura hosts several festivals—most of which are held during the summer and are centred on the local shrines. These celebrations feature ritual dances, parades with portable shrines (mikoshi), musical bands and depictions of medieval samurai skills such as archery on horseback.

As you ride back to Tokyo, you’ll hardly have time to reflect on your visit, for even though it is close to the city, Kamakura feels a million miles away.

Discover the region’s tasty eats and indulgent treats D

Food & souvenirs While you’re in Kamakura, don’t forget to check out the local shops’ specialties.

Hangetsu

©Kamakuragoro

Take home a bite of Kamakura with delicious HanNL[Z\ ;OLZL ^HMLY JVVRPLZ ÄSSLK ^P[O Z^LL[ YLK ILHU or matcha cream are available from Komachi Street.

Shirasu-don

©ACWorks

Try shirasu-don, comprised of a bowl of rice topped with raw young sardines, nori, green onions and raw egg.

Shirasu-don is a bowl full of umami goodness!

(SS WOV[VZ 15;6 \USLZZ V[OLY^PZL UV[LK

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MAY 2017

19

Only in Japan | Capsule hotel

By M Crowson

Sleepy-time capsule Discover Japan’s quirky mini-lodging for the busy and cash-strapped traveller. 安さだけじゃない。 コンビニエンスとラグジュアリーを追求した三畳一間（未満！）。

Where is my capsule?

gown or robe, which you can wear when you move between your capsule and the bathroom.

Some hotels even include restaurants or bars on site, where you can imbibe in capsule style.

Oopsieie....... oo. lasses t my gla

While some capsule hotels are co-ed, and some WYV]PKL YVVTZ ^P[O NLUKLYZ ZWSP[ IL[^LLU ÅVVYZ [OL ]LY` ÄYZ[ JHWZ\SL OV[LS ^HZ MVY TLU VUS` 0[ debuted in Osaka in 1979, and was aimed at salarymen who had missed the last train after a long night of drinking. These days, however, hotels are increasingly geared toward women and travellers of all kinds, from foreign tourists to students visiting potential college campuses.

Illustration by Reiko Ema

You know that feeling when you’re planning a big trip and you want to See All the Things and Go All the Places, but your dreams are far bigger than your budget? If Japan is on your itinerary, you might want to consider staying in JHWZ\SL OV[LSZ! HќVYKHISL ZTHSS ZJHSL SVKNings that typically cost between $30 and $50 a night. Instead of a room, you get a pod just big enough to sit up and lie down inside, usually furnished with a bed, TV and Wi-Fi connection.

Bigger hotels stack dozens of pods into two rows in a single room, resulting in something

that looks a little like space-age bunk beds on a shuttle to Mars. ,HJO JHWZ\SL PUJS\KLZ H J\Y[HPU VY ÄIYLNSHZZ door, which you can close when it’s time for lights-out, but keep in mind you won’t get the level of privacy you would in a regular hotel.

And because each capsule has no bathroom of its own, a room for the night comes with access to a luggage locker and communal bath. ;OL OV[LSZ [LUK [V IL ]LY` JSLHU HUK LѝJPLU[ and hotel reception will give you some sort of

As these hotels have garnered worldwide fame, some companies have opened designer capsule hotels that come with a much higher price tag, like the women-only Nadeshiko Ho[LS :OPI\`H ^OPJO VќLYZ ILH\[PM\S [YHKP[PVUHS Japanese design, bathing and food. These extra frills can cost up to $130 per night, almost Ä]L [PTLZ [OL JVZ[ VM H [`WPJHS JHWZ\SL OV[LS While it is still cheaper than a fully equipped hotel room in the middle of Tokyo, these kinds of designer hotels are better suited to travellers who are looking for a quirky experience and don’t mind shelling out a little extra for the privilege. For the everyday traveller, however, sticking with the standard capsule hotel is an excellent choice for a budget-friendly trip. Just be sure you aren’t feeling too claustrophobic before you hop in!

How to capsule Here are three tips for enjoying your capsule hotel experience, and being a good neighbour to your fellow pod people.

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DO NOT

DO

DO NOT

eat in your room.

use your inside voice.

bring a friend.

Eating and smoking are prohibited in capsules, so head to the bar for your smokes and munchies.

Because the walls are very thin, you’ll want to be courteous to your fellow sleepers.

Each capsule is just big enough for one, so leave your sweetie at home (or in another pod).

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MAY 2017

21

1-Day Kyoto & Nara Tour 1 Visit the most famous sightseeing spots in Kyoto and Nara, including World Heritage Sites.

2 Spend time in two ancient Japanese cities on this 1-day tour which is a long-time bestseller.

3 This is a 1-day tour combining the ‘Kyoto Morning’ and ‘Nara Afternoon’ tours, with lunch.

TOUR BASIC INFORMATION Departure city: Kyoto Tour time: Daily Visits: Kyoto, Nara Duration: Approx. 11 hours Includes: English-speaking guide, lunch, admission charges and transportation expenses noted in the itinerary.

PRICE

CAD $

185

*Price is valid for the month of May 2017 *Price may fluctuate due to change in exchange rate.

All photos ©JNTO

HOW TO PURCHASE Reservations can be made by either telephone or email. Please contact JTB International (Canada) Ltd. at Phone: 416-367-5824 | Toll-free: 1-800-268-5942 | Email: jtbtoronto@jtbi.com | Website: www.jtb.ca

I T I N E R A RY

8:25

Depart from Sunrise Tours Desk inside Avanti

Kyoto Imperial Palace* See the Kyoto Imperial Palace, 40 which was used as the emperor’s min residence until about 150 years ago.

(across from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit) Pick-up service is available at hotels in Kyoto City.

All transportation on this tour is by bus.

Mon

Nijo Castle*

50

min

A World Heritage Site. Tour the historical castle completed in 1626, which was built to provide lodging for Tokugawa Shogun and as an arena for the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The impressive, elaborate carvings and décor in the Ninomaru Palace are a must-see.

Kinkaku-ji Temple

45

Todai-ji Temple (Great Buddha) Nara Park

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine*

On Mondays, this tour will visit 40 Kitano Tenmangu Shrine instead of min the Kyoto Imperial Palace. It is famous for housing the god of scholarship. This shrine’s main hall is a designated national treasure. The shrine is especially great to see during the plum blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

Lunch

50

Japanese/Western-style buffet lunch min

min

A World Heritage Site. The wooden architecture is covered in gold leaf and is surrounded by a beautiful pond.

From Kyoto to Nara

90

A World Heritage Site. This is the 60 symbol of the Nara period and one of min the world’s largest wooden structures with a huge main hall and bronze “Great Buddha” that are impressive to see.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

40

min

This Nara period shrine is designated as a World Heritage Site. The deer of Nara Park are thought to be the shrine messengers. The tour will not enter areas with paid admissions.

Nara Nagomikan

20

min

The largest souvenir shop in Nara.

Enjoy yourself in this spacious shop and look for the perfect souvenirs.

min

Head to Nara via the Nara Keinawa Expressway

18:30–19:30

Drop-off Service

To hotels in Kyoto City

*Nijo Castle is closed on Tuesdays in January, July, August and December (closed on the following day if Tuesday is a holiday). If the castle is closed, or if the tour is during the year-end/New Year’s holidays, Ryoan-ji Temple will be visited instead. *As Kyoto Imperial Palace is closed on the following dates, tours on these dates will visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine instead: Mondays, Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday, May 14–17 for the Aoi Festival, New Year’s holidays, and whenever there is an Imperial Household event. *The tour will visit Nishi Hongan-ji Temple instead of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine on September 25 and December 25.

For more information, please contact JTB International at 1-800-268-5942 (toll-free) or email at jtbtoronto@jtbi.com www.bentoboxmag.ca

MAY 2017

23

MUJI’s got you covered for Mother’s Day 7KH HPEURLGHU\ VHUYLFH RijHUV WKH SHUIHFW SHUVRQDOL]HG JLIW IRU 0RP Alice Deng Embroidery Lead, MUJI Yorkdale MUJI has become well known for their dedication to clean, uncluttered style. Not only has this design choice made the retailer a hit with shoppers who enjoy going unbranded, it also means that MUJI’s minimalist clothing and housewares make great canvases on which you can express your unique style.

The brand encourages just this with their on-site embroidery counter at the MUJI Yorkdale location. If you’re familiar with the MUJI stamp stations, which provide a wealth of options for customizing MUJI stationery, the embroidery station is much the same for clothing and textiles. Choosing from a catalogue of similarly simple, adorable designs, you can customize or personalize virtually any fabric product MUJI sells—from T-shirts, to tote bags, to handkerchiefs—for as little as $3 per design.

a personal touch on embroidery by having a KLKPJH[LK Z[HŃœ TLTILY MVY [OL ZLY]PJL -PUHSS` I was surprised to see that they host their embroidery machine right there in the store, rather than outsourcing the service to another location—as other stores do.

The friendly face of this service at MUJI Yorkdale is embroidery lead Alice Deng. Alice has held this position since the Yorkdale location opened last year, and she draws on a wealth of experience to help customers realize their creative vision. She is able to advise on which fabrics work best for embroidering, and she can suggest designs, lettering and colours to complement what the customer has in mind.

When it comes to what can be achieved with MUJI embroidery, the only limit is your own creativity. Customers are able to choose from 15 KPŃœLYLU[ [OYLHK JVSV\YZ HUK JHU LTIYVPKLY VU most of the items sold in-store, including bags, pyjamas, dress shirts and even pillows. As if this wasn’t enough, MUJI has even introduced the option to embroider on towels, just in time for Mother’s Day. Alice has already helped a number of customers make great gifts for their mothers, with most people adding names and initials to handkerchiefs and shirts. The option of personalizing MUJI’s line of baby clothes has also proved popular, with customers embracing embroidery for baby shower or birthday gifts.

If you’re still struggling to come up with gift ideas this Mother’s Day, be sure to call or visit Alice at the MUJI Yorkdale location. The embroidery service usually has a quick turnaround time of one to two days, but it can take longer in peak periods. So, if you’re hoping to get something embroidered in time for Mother’s Day, be sure to place your order soon!

By Nicholas Jones

Monogrammed towels are a classic y gift for Mother’s Da

Having had some experience buying custom embroidery personally and professionally, I was blown away by [OL HŃœVYKHISL WYPJL MVY [OPZ ZLY]PJL 0 was further impressed that MUJI puts

All items are ite embroidered on-s

For more information

www.muji.com/ca

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MAY 2017

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MUJI Atrium

MUJI Square One

MUJI Yorkdale

Atrium, 20 Dundas St. W., C-03, Toronto | TEL: 416-591-2233

Square One Shopping Centre, 100 City Centre Dr., Mississauga TEL: 905-276-2737

+\ŃœLYPU :[ ;VYVU[V

Store Hours: Mon–Fri 10 am–8 pm :H[ HTÂś WT ŕ Ž :\U HTÂś WT

Store Hours: Mon–Fri 10 am–9 pm :H[ ! HTÂś WT ŕ Ž :\U HTÂś WT

Store Hours: Mon–Fri 10 am–9 pm :H[ ! HTÂś WT ŕ Ž :\U HTÂś WT

TEL: 416-479-1204

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MAY 2017

25

UPCOMING

EVENT

Next Music from Tokyo

Bakyun the everyday

Yubisaki Nohaku

The Taupe

Hyacca

Celebrating its 10th edition in May, NMFT brings Tokyo’s vibrant music scene to Canada.

“No music, no life” is the famous slogan of Tower Records in Japan. But it may as well be the na[PVU»Z VѝJPHS THU[YH ILJH\ZL T\ZPJ PZ 1HWHU»Z lifeblood. If you love music—not just listening to it, but having its beauty and energy captivate your soul in a live setting—then there is no better place to experience music than Tokyo.

Travelling to Japan is a dream vacation for many but it’s an expensive trip that can be cost-prohibitive. Fortunately, if your reason for wanting to visit Japan is to experience the music scene, or even if you’re just a fan of experiencing new live music, then a great opportunity awaits you here in May. Next Music from Tokyo (NMFT) is an annually recurring tour that brings Tokyo’s fascinating live music scene to life in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. The 10th edition of NMFT will be celebrated in Toronto with two concerts: May 19 at the Rivoli and May 20 at Lee’s Palace. This time the music will be quirky, intelligent and very loud with a lineup of four bands and an idol group:

Bakyun the everyday: Soulful and melodic emo-punk with male/female vocals and an extra gear for “loud and intense.”

Yubisaki Nohaku: One of the best (and most beautiful) (and most badass!) all-female bands in the world who play passionate, quirky progrock. Fans of Tricot are sure to fall in love.

The Taupe: A band that excels in exploiting the contrast between serenity and ear-shattering noise. Beautiful melodies and soft tones lull you into a comfort zone before a skyscraper of distortion rocks your body and soul.

Yukueshirezutsurezure (Not Secured, Loose Ends): An idol group that performs to screamo and post-metal music with sincerity and raw intensity. The hardcore fury of their performance must be seen to be believed.

Hyacca: This group combines math rock with lightning-speed punk, shoegaze and krautrock.

Picture Tera Melos jamming with Bad Brains, My

Bloody Valentine and Neu! Noisy and aggressive yet melodic and extremely danceable, Hyacca, who played the festival in 2011, is the primary reason NMFT vol. 3 was named one of Toronto’s concerts of the year by BlogTO. Although NMFT advocates innovativeness and originality it categorically isn’t a celebration of “weird Japan.” Style is important but not at the expense of substance. Creative, passionate songwriting performed with exceptional skill is the hallmark of artists and bands chosen by NMFT. Music itself is a form of language expressed through melodies, chord progressions, tempo and arrangement. You don’t need to understand Japanese to appreciate and enjoy the beauty inherent in musical compositions. NMFT shows are consistently sold out, with most of the audience consisting of Canadians with minimal to no WYVÄJPLUJ` PU 1HWHULZL ;VR`V OHZ [OL SHYNLZ[ and arguably the best music scene in the world so if you’re open-minded and a fan of good music come watch NMFT in May to witness a music festival unlike any you’ve seen before.

For more info please visit www.nextmusicfromtokyo.com

Steven Tanaka

Yukueshirezutsurezure 26

MAY 2017

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MD. Lives in Toronto.

So passionate about the Japanese underground music scene that he founded and carries out a three-city (two shows in Toronto, one show each in Montreal and Vancouver) tour to share the music with fellow Canadians.

www.bentoboxmag.ca

MAY 2017

27

ith a ter Salad w SmokedchLoujbsang piperrada go

Staff

Sakura p tals a d the Sakuera Pannorn a Cottdaelicate Ariel Litteljohn

Ariel is often on the hun A t for tasty bites, whe w ther it be a flavourful tomato found at a local farmer’s mar ket, peppered pomfret at a restaurant in Mumbai or takoyaki devoured on a small street in Osa O ka. Her accompanim ents of choice are arr her husband, David, and their young d ughters, Freya and Lum dau en.

Sakura Omakase at Miku A

An enchanting evening devoted to celebrating the cherry blossom season.

t the intimate six-seat Kaisen Bar, lucky guests gather to enjoy Miku Toronto’s 10-course omakase. Hosted by Miku’s head sushi chef, Kazuki Uchigoshi, and chef de cuisine, Michael Acero, the Sakura Omakase VќLYZ KPULYZ H MYVU[ YV^ ZLH[ [V [OL THRPUN VM Miku’s signature aburi-style cuisine. Before the meal begins, I am treated to the Aburi Sakura Martini, a sake, rose liquor and orange blossom ^H[LY JVJR[HPS JYLH[LK MVY [OL VJJHZPVU I` 5PJR 4L`LY OLHK IHY[LUKLY·H ZWSLUKPK ^H` [V Z[HY[ Vќ [OL L]LUPUN -VSSV^PUN [OPZ KLSPJPV\Z PU[YVK\Jtion, each subsequent course is accompanied by a premium sake pairing carefully chosen by Miki Ellis, Miku’s resident sake specialist.

4` WYL]PL^ ]LYZPVU VM [OL :HR\YH 6THRHZL TLU\ ILNPUZ ^P[O [OL Zensai course of Smoked Lobster Salad. Tender pieces of smoked lobster HYL HJJVTWHUPLK ^P[O H ZVYYLS HUK OLPYSVVT [V-

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MAY 2017

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TH[V ZHSHK Ã&#x201E;UPZOLK ^P[O yuzu KL^ KYVWZ HUK a gochujang WPWLYYHKH HKKPUN H SV]LS` 2VYLHU :WHUPZO [^PZ[ [V [OL KPZO 0 HT [OLU [YLH[LK [V H IYPSSPHU[ ;Y\Ñ&#x17E;L :[\Ñ&#x153;LK )HI` *HSHTHYP ULZ[SLK in squid ink champagne sauce before being WYLZLU[LK ^P[O [OL TVZ[ KLSLJ[HISL (I\YP 7YPTL 5PNPYP Z\ZOP JV\YZL WPJ[\YLK HIV]L ;OL YLJ[angular piece is Mikuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature Aburi Salmon 6ZOP :\ZOP -VY [OVZL \UMHTPSPHY ^P[O [OL [LYT HI\YP J\PZPUL PZ H TL[OVK VM Ã&#x2026;HTL ZLHYPUN Z\ZOP ) * ^PSK ZVJRL`L ZHSTVU PZ WYLZZLK HUK [OLU KYLZZLK ^P[O ZV` HUK 4PR\»Z ZPNUH[\YL ZH\JL ZLHYLK HUK [VWWLK ^P[O H QHSHWL|V (IZVS\[L WLYMLJ[PVU ;OL MHY YPNO[ WPLJL PZ H I\[[LY` ZSPJL VM NVSK NYHKL 1HWHULZL >HN`\ ^OPJO TLS[Z PU T` mouth upon contact. And I cannot stop thinking about the uni Z\ZOP ZLY]LK ^P[O H [OPU WPLJL VM JYPZW` ZLH^LLK [LTW\YH·[OL JVTIPUH[PVU VM [L_[\YLZ ^VYRLK ZV ^LSS [VNL[OLY ;OL ZHRL WHPYPUN VM <YHRHZ\TP ALU 1\UTHP .PUQV ^HZ H

perfect match for the sushi course, cleansing [OL WHSH[L PU IL[^LLU IP[LZ -VY WH[YVUZ LUQV`PUN [OL M\SS JV\YZL VTHRHZL the meal also includes an Amuse-Bouche course VM TPZV MVPL NYHZ H ;YHKP[PVUHS :HZOPTP *V\YZL [^V 5PNPYP :\ZOP JV\YZLZ H Sakekasu marinated Japanese Wagyu beef dish and a Mizumono JV\YZL VM H :[YH^ILYY` 4HZJHYWVUL *HUUVSP [V Ã&#x201E;UPZO [OPUNZ VÑ&#x153; ;OPZ ZWLJPHS :HR\YH 6THRHZL TLU\ PZ VUS` VU VÑ&#x153;LY \U[PS 4H` ZV YLZLY]L `V\Y ZWV[ H[ [OL 2HPZLU )HY UV^ )VVR VU ZP[L at the restaurant or by email at mikutoronto@ aburirestaurants.com.

Miku Toronto

)H` :[ ' 8\LLU»Z 8\H` c mikutoronto.com OPEN: 3\UJO! 4VU¶-YP ! HT¶ WT Â&#x2039; :H[¶:\U WT¶ WT Â&#x2039; +PUULY! :\U¶;O\YZ WT¶ WT Â&#x2039; -YP¶:H[ WT¶ ! WT )HY )P[LZ! H]HPSHISL IL[^LLU S\UJO HUK KPUULY HUK SH[L L]LUPUN