060117 bentobox

Japanese Culture | Hot Spots | Products

| Food

Jun. 2017

No. 28 FREE www.bentoboxmag.ca

A MOUNTAIN OF RAMEN

Ebisu serves up a bowl for towering appetites

DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD

Spend a peaceful afternoon in Kurashiki

TAKAHASHI’S LABORATORY

Delicious experimentation at Ryus Noodle Bar

Contents June 2017 No.28

08

Scale a mountain of deliciousness with some Fujisan Ramen

04

Feature: The Toronto Japanese Film Festival

08

Restaurant: Part ramen-ya, part izakaya, all value

10

Products: Fancy up your electronics

12

Ingredient: Wild scallions

14

Sake: Elegant and refreshing Chogetsu

16

Travel: Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

20

Only in Japan: Personal chopsticks

24

MUJI picks: Everybody likes a good sleep

26

Book: Kokeshi: From Tohoku with Love

30

:[HɈ WPJR YLZ[H\YHU[! Takahashi’s laboratory

EDITOR’S NOTE

Nina Hoeschele

We’re going to the movies Ready to munch some popcorn and take in a few films? Japan has a prolific film industry, but the results aren’t often shown on this side of the pond. Thank goodness for the Toronto Japanese Film Festival! With a careful selection of critically acclaimed films, this year’s fest is sure to be an entertaining one. We’ll see you there!

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Cover photos: Left top and right middle: © “Her Love Boils Bathwater” Film Partners | Left middle: © FUMIYO KOUNO/FUTABASHA/KONOSEKAI NO KATASUMINI PROJECT | Right top: ©2016 Fueled: The Man They Called “Pirate” Film Partners ©Naoki Hyakuta/KODANSHA LTD. | Centre: ©2017｢花戦さ｣製作委員会 Editors Nina Hoeschele, Amanda Plyley, Yumi Nishio Editorial coordinators Nina Hoeschele, Yumi Nishio Writers Amanda Plyley, Amanda Taylor, Erin Kimura, James Heron, M Crowson, Nicholas Jones, Sarah Dickson, Sylvester Pilgrim, Walter Muschenheim Designers Chiyako Mukai, Midori Yamamoto Photographer Kazu Maruyama Production assistants Aimi Shibata, Takashi Tsujii Advertisement & marketing Kazu Maruyama Publisher Kazu Maruyama

Bento Box Communication Inc. | #410-600 Bay St., Toronto, ON, Canada M5G 1M6 Phone: 416-964-0981 | www.bentoboxmag.ca | Email: info@bentoboxmag.ca

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JUNE 2017

03

By James Heron

笑いあり、涙あり…日本で話題をさらった映画が一挙集結！

The Toronto Japanese Film Festival celebrates its sixth year The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre’s annual festival has become one of the largest of its kind in the world. In keeping with its motto, “Friendship through Culture,” the fest uses cinema to create bridges between Japan and Canada.

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The Toronto Japanese Film Festival 2017 lineup

JCCC Executive Director

James Heron James has been the executive director of the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre for 17 years. He is the co-founder and co-director of the Toronto Japanese Film Festival (with Chris Hope) and co-programmer (with Aki Takabatake).

;HRL H JSVZLY SVVR H[ ZVTL VM [OL JVTWLSSPUN ÄSTZ that will be showcased at this year’s TJFF. ^^^ [VYVU[VQɈ JVT

Fueled–The Man Called “Pirate” An epic tale of Japan’s postwar rebuilding from the creator of some of Japan’s most popular films, such as The Eternal Zero and Always: Sunset on Third Street.

Maverick businessman Tetsuzo Kunioka believes Japanese resurgence must be fueled by oil, not coal. With a workforce decimated by the war, and with foreign governments sealing oil transportation routes, a desperate Kunioka risks international incident by commandeering an oil tanker and secretly sending it to Iran, earning himself the moniker “pirate.”

A thrilling true story and study of the Japanese spirit of resiliency featuring an all-star cast.

Thursday, June 8, 7:30 pm Canadian Premiere Director: Takashi Yamazaki Starring: Junichi Okada, Haruka Ayase, Hidetaka Yoshioka and Shota Sometani

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[Opening night reception]

Director Takashi Yamazaki will be in attendance to introK\JL [OL ÄST HUK [HRL X\LZ[PVUZ MVSSV^PUN [OL ZJYLLUPUN

James’s recommendation “A big, bracing old-school adventure about the best of the Japanese spirit from the master of the Japanese historical epic.”

© 2016 Fueled: The Man They Called “Pirate” Film Partners ©Naoki Hyakuta/KODANSHA LTD.

Photos: Left© “Her Love Boils Bathwater” Film Partners Middle: ©2017｢花戦さ｣製作委員会 Right: © FUMIYO KOUNO/FUTABASHA/KONOSEKAI NO KATASUMINI PROJECT

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JUNE 2017

05

A showcase of Japanese culture and talent Her Love Boils Bathwater ‫ޣ‬ḡࠍᴣ߆ߔ߶ߤߩᾲ޿ᗲ‫ޤ‬ This touching drama was the winner of the Japan Academy Prize for best female lead as well as supporting performances. Futaba, a young mother with terminal cancer, decides that she needs to make sure everyone she loves will be OK after she is gone. In her ÄUHS TVU[OZ ZOL T\Z[ ÄUK OLY O\ZIHUK who has been absent for a year, so they can reopen the family business—a traditional small-town bathhouse. Futaba must also teach her bullied daughter Azumi to stand on her own two feet. An impossibly moving story of forgiveness, death and love.

[Special guest: Actor Joe Odagiri]

James’s recommendation ¸( WV^LYM\S Z[VY` VM H K`PUN ^VTHU»Z LќVY[ [V reunite her family and rebuild a traditional bathOV\ZL PU OLY ÄUHS TVU[OZ )YPUN 2SLLUL_ ¹

© “Her Love Boils Bathwater” Film Partners

Tuesday, June 13, 7 pm | Canadian Premiere Director: Ryota Nakano Starring: Rie Miyazawa and Joe Odagiri

Joe Odagiri will be in attendance at HER LOVE BOILS )(;/>(;,9 HZ ^LSS HZ H[ OPZ H^HYK ^PUUPUN ÄST 6=,9 THE FENCE on June 14. At both screenings, he will PU[YVK\JL [OL ÄSTZ HUK [HRL WHY[ PU H 8 (

Mumon–The Land of Stealth A spectacular ninja vs. samurai battle epic based on Ryo Wada’s popular novel Shinobi no Kuni. Warlord Nobunaga Oda’s campaign to pacify and unify Japan under his rule faces one terrifying obstacle: the ninja stealth warriors of Iga Province. When Mumon, Iga’s deadliest warrior—and the laziest, according to his wife—kills a ninja from a rival family for a reward, his actions trigger a deadly war between Nobunaga’s army and the ninja of the Iga Province. The resulting battle explodes with political intrigue, violent HJ[PVU HUK X\LZ[PVUZ VM TVYHSP[` ( ÄST M\SS VM spectacular swordplay, playful humour and gorgeous photography.

© 2017 Mumon Film Partners

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Wednesday, June 28, 7 pm North American Premiere Director: Yoshihiro Nakamura Starring: Satoshi Ohno, Satomi Ishihara, Jun Kunimura and Yusuke Iseya

‫ޣ‬ᔋ߮ߩ࿖‫ޤ‬

[Closing night reception]

Director Yoshihiro Nakamura will be in attendance to introK\JL [OL ÄST HUK [HRL X\LZ[PVUZ MVSSV^PUN [OL ZJYLLUPUN

James’s recommendation “A TJFF favourite, director Nakamura brings his ÄM[O ÄST [V [OL MLZ[ KLSP]LYPUN HUV[OLY ^PUULY ^P[O UPUQH ZHT\YHP HUK (YHZOP [VV ¹

Hirugao

‍ ޣ‏ᤤ‍ޓ‏㗝‍ޤ‏

–Love Affairs in the Afternoon

Three years ago Sawa lost everything—her family, friends and career—after an illicit affair with a married teacher, Yuichiro. When fate reunites them, their grand, tragic passion is reignited.

James’s recommendation

Schedule of TJFF events Tickets are available at the JCCC reception, at 416-441-2345 or www.ticketweb.ca Thursday June 8

Opening Night Reception 6:30 pm Fueled–The Man “Pirateâ€? ćľˇčłŠă ¨ĺ‘źă °ă‚Œă &#x;甡 Guest: Director Takashi Yamazaki 7:30 pm | 145 min

Friday June 9

Scoop! 7 pm | 120 min Himeanole ăƒ’ăƒĄă‚˘ăƒŽăƒźăƒŤ 9:15 pm | 99 min

Saturday June 10

Birthday Wishes ăƒ?ăƒźă‚šăƒ‡ăƒźă‚Ťăƒźăƒ‰ 1:30 pm | 123 min Chihayafuru Part I ă Ąă Żă‚„ă ľă‚‹ 上㠎ĺ?Ľ 4 pm | 111 min Samurai Hustle Returns čś…éŤ˜é€&#x;ďź ĺ?‚ĺ‹¤äş¤äťŁăƒŞă‚żăƒźăƒłă‚ş Guest: Stuntwoman Chihiro Tanaka 7 pm | 119 min

Sunday June 11

Rudolf the Black Cat ăƒŤăƒ‰ăƒŤăƒ•ă ¨ă‚¤ăƒƒăƒ‘ă‚¤ă‚˘ăƒƒăƒ†ăƒŠ 1 pm | 89 min Midnight Diner ćˇąĺ¤œéŁ&#x;ĺ ‚ 4 pm | 119 min Sake Bar and Chef Tak’s Midnight Diner Menu between screenings. Come hungry!

Satoshi–A Move for Tomorrow č –ă Žé?’ć˜Ľ Guest: Director Yoshitaka Mori 7 pm | 124 min

Monday June 12

The Ondekoza ă –ăƒťéŹźĺ¤Şéź“ĺş§ Featuring performance

by Nagata Shachu 7 pm | 107 min

Tuesday June 13

Her Love Boils Bathwater 暯を沸㠋㠙㠝㠊㠎熹㠄愛 Guest: Actor Joe Odagiri 7 pm | 125 min

Wednesday June 14

Over the Fence ă‚Şăƒźăƒ?ăƒźăƒťăƒ•ă‚§ăƒłă‚š Guest: Actor Joe Odagiri 7 pm | 112 min

Thursday June 15

Honnouji Hotel ćœŹčƒ˝ĺŻşăƒ›ăƒ†ăƒŤ 7 pm | 120 min

Friday June 16

I am a Hero ă‚˘ă‚¤ă‚˘ăƒ ă‚˘ăƒ’ăƒźăƒ­ăƒź 7:30 pm | 127 min

Saturday June 17

What a Wonderful Family 厜ć—?ă Żă ¤ă‚‰ă „ă‚ˆ 1 pm | 108 min Danchi (The Projects) ĺ›Łĺœ° 4 pm | 103 min What’s for Dinner, Mom? ăƒžăƒžă€ ă ”ă Żă‚“ă žă ďź&#x; Guest: Director Mitushito Shiraha 7 pm | 117 min

Sunday June 18

Shin Godzilla ă‚ˇăƒłăƒťă‚´ă‚¸ăƒŠ 2 pm | 120 min

Monday June 19

Traces of Sin ć„ščĄŒéŒ˛ 7 pm | 120 min

Tuesday June 20

Survival Family ă‚ľăƒ?イăƒ?ăƒŤăƒ•ă‚Ąăƒ&#x;ăƒŞăƒź 7 pm | 117 min

Wednesday June 21

Flower and Sword čŠąćˆŚă • 7 pm | 127 min

Thursday June 22

/PY\NHV¡3V]L (ɈHPYZ PU [OL (M[LYUVVU ć˜źéĄ” 7 pm | 125 min

Monday June 26

Rage 怒り 7 pm | 141 min

Tuesday June 27

In This Corner of the World ă “ă Žä¸–ç•Œă Žç‰‡éš…ă Ť 7 pm | 126 min

Wednesday June 28

Mumon—The Land of Stealth �㠳㠎国 Guest: Director Yoshihiro Nakamura 7 pm | 125 min Closing Night Reception

“A breakout role for Aya Ueto who delivers a passionate, career-best central performance.�

Thursday, June 22, 7 pm North American Premiere Director: Hiroshi Nishitani Starring: Aya Ueto and Takumi SaitĂ´ â’¸2017â€ƒăƒ•ă‚¸ăƒ†ăƒŹăƒ“ă‚¸ăƒ§ăƒłâ€ƒć?ąĺŽ? FNS27礞

Flower and Sword‍⧎ޣ‏ᚢß?‍ޤ‏ ( IH[[SL MV\NO[ UV[ ^P[O Z^VYKZ I\[ Ă…V^LYZ Under the new shogun’s strict rule, the monk Senko Ikenobo tries to bring peace to the people through ikebana Ă…V^LY HYYHUNLTLU[ When Rikyu, innovator of the Japanese tea ceremony, is ordered to commit hara-kiri, Senko issues a challenge to the ruler.

James’s recommendation “Combines the most sophisticated elements of Japanese culture with political intrigue and humour. Great fun.�

Š2017ď˝˘čŠąćˆŚă •ď˝ŁčŁ˝ä˝œĺ§”ĺ“Ąäźš

Wednesday, June 21, 7 pm | International Premiere Director: Tetsuo Shinohara Starring: Mansai Nomura, Kiichi Nakai and Koichi Sato

In This Corner of the World â€ŤßŠßŽŢŁâ€Źŕ¨Žâ‡‡ßŠâ€‚ă“ˆßŚâ€ŤŢ¤â€Ź

Winner of the Japanese Academy Prize for Animation of the Year. A young woman moves to a small town near Hiroshima to marry. The bombings shatter her world but through perseverance and courage she continues living life to the fullest.

James’s recommendation “This award-winning anime is an indelible, dream-like masterpiece.�

Tuesday, June 27, 7 pm Canadian Premiere Director: Sunao Katabuchi 9RLFHG E\ 5HQD 1Ĺ?QHQ 'DLVXNH 2QR DQG Yoshimasa Hosoya

Media Partner: Bento Box Magazine

*OPOH`HM\Y\ 7HY[ ǧ and Midnight Diner 2 will be screened on Saturday, July 22 at 2 pm and 4 pm respectively. Hirune Hime—Ancien and the Magic Tablet is scheduled to screen on Sunday, August 20 at 2 pm.

Š FUMIYO KOUNO/FUTABASHA/KONOSEKAI NO KATASUMINI PROJECT

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JUNE 2017

07

Hot Spot | Ebisu on Queen

By Nicholas Jones

Part ramen-ya, part izakaya, all value If ramen has ever left you wanting more, Ebisu has the bowl for you.

Fujisan Ramen: Karaage Hearty ramen and fried He chicken, chicken en, brought together in VUL KLSPJPV\Z IV^S VU UL KLSPJPV\Z IV^S

Fujisan Ramen: Chashu This bowl features a generous portion of pork and a smooth, Ă…H]V\YM\S IYV[O

Hungry for more? Let’s dig in!

Ramune Highball This sweet, sparkling soda is the perfect cocktail base.

Let me know if this sounds familiar. You slurp your way through your ramen only to be left, still hungry, staring at soup broth with not a noodle in sight.

Not so at Ebisu on Queen. Inspired by the Jirostyle ramen craze sweeping Tokyo, Ebisu has introduced the Fujisan Ramen, a bowl named after the most famous mountain in Japan.

It starts with either six pieces of chashu pork or three pieces of fried chicken karaage, and your choice of miso, shio, shoyu or spicy broth. You [OLU JOVVZL [OPJR VY [OPU UVVKSLZ HUK ÄUHSS` how big an order of vegetables you’re looking to tackle: small, medium or large. Another restaurant would charge extra for more vegetables, but at Ebisu it’s all included.

On my visit, I tried the shio ramen with chashu pork and the spicy broth with karaage, and elected to get a large order of vegetables with both. Manager Takuya Matsuda warned me that was going to be a real challenge to eat, but I dismissed his concerns.

But when Takuya set my bowls down in front of me, I quickly realised why “Fujisan” is such an appropriate name. There were literal mountains of beansprouts and cabbage looming out of the soup, and I knew this was just the bowl of ramen I’d been seeking!

Flame-seared sushi Spicy jalapeño is a great match for fatty yellowtail! This @LSSV^[HPS 1HSHWL|V )H[[LYH :\ZOP PZ ÅHTL ZLHYLK YPNO[ at your table.

Umeshu Shakera-to A plum wine cocktail rimmed with salt, with an edible plum to garnish.

But what about the ramen itself? The karaage was tender and delicious while Ebisu’s shio tonkotsu broth was pleasingly garlicky without being too oily. On Takuya’s recommendation, I chose Ebisu’s thick noodles, and they held up well, keeping their springy texture throughout my meal.

That being said, Ebisu is far more than just a ramen-ya, with an extensive menu featuring everything from tapas to chirashi sushi. Whether you’re looking to share a drink with friends or to take advantage of the awesome happy hour deals, Ebisu is a chill place to enjoy authentic Japanese fare.

Fresh seafood box Looking for a lighter choice? Ebisu has it covered!

Try the colourful and appetizing Chirashi Sushi Box with fresh seasonal seafood.

Ebisu on Queen 204 Queen St. W., Toronto 416-204-9595 | ebisutoronto.com 67,5! 4VU¶;O\YZ ! HT¶ WT -YP !

HT¶ HT :H[ WT¶ HT :\U WT¶ WT

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JUNE 2017

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Hot in

Featured

Japan

PRODUCTS

Add some cute and colourful touches to your everyday electronic devices with this month’s handy selections.

01

BUILD A DANCE PARTY Brighten up your day with one of these Lego brick smartphone speakers.

Find the right hue for you In true Lego style, these speakers have five cute colours for you to choose from.

Compact and cute, these bricks feature double-sided speakers for a sound quality that is anything but small. Their size, however, makes them easy to use anywhere, and since they can be powered with three AA batteries, you can take them to the park, the beach or wherever you want to enjoy your favourite tunes. Each speaker also comes with USB and AUX cables for an additional source of power. *VTWH[PISL ^P[O P7OVUL VY (UKYVPK KL]PJLZ [OLZL ZWLHRLYZ \ZL ¸ULHY ÄLSK H\KPV¹ [LJOUVSVN` [V ^PYLlessly connect to your smartphone. Just place your phone on top of the speaker and hit play!

02

LISTEN IN RETRO STYLE Every day is Throwback Thursday with these Nintendo earphones.

Includes a “controller” microphone!

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Nostalgia is so hot right now. Get in on the throwback trend with these Nintendo Entertainment System-themed earbuds. Modelled after the original Famicom system, as it was known in Japan, these earbuds are sure to satisfy any yearning for the ’80s. Each set of headphones includes a cable extender, detachable earbuds and a microphone shaped like the original system’s controller.

03

HOME MOVIES ON THE GO Use your smartphone as your very own home theatre system with this handy projector.

Project your favourite videos!

This simple smartphone projector can quickly transform your home into a theatre. Despite needing some assembly, the projector is incredibly easy to use and no batteries are required. The projector can hold smartphones with screens up to 5.5 inches in size. Once you’ve got the lens set up inside the cardboard frame, just drop your smartphone in and you’re good to go!

04

PERK UP YOUR EARS

:OV^ `V\Y HќLJ[PVU MVY HSS [OPUNZ MLSPUL ^P[O [OLZL HKVYHISL JH[ LHYLK OLHK phones!

05

PET YOUR PHONE

*\KKSL \W ^P[O [OPZ M\YY` THRLV]LY MVY your smartphone.

These cases are pawsitively adorable!

These headphones are the purrfect way to look cute while enjoying your favourite music. Besides being adorable, these headphones are durable, with rubber and enamel to ensure that they last. You also don’t have to sacrifice sound quality for style, as they are designed to provide powerful audio.

Choose from 10 different colour options to complement your look.

More info about these products

Photo ©FELISSIMO

A cat’s tail is very useful, especially when it’s on your phone! This furry smartphone cover is soft to the touch and has a tail that you can use as a closure, or as a handle to hold on to your device. It comes in four collectable colours o and fits smartphones up to 15 cm x 7.5 cm.

01: Century Corporation, www.century.co.jp (Japanese only) | 02 & 03: Japan Trend Shop, www.japan trendshop.com | 04: mix-style, www.mix-style.com | 05: Felissimo, www.felissimo.co.jp/int/ www.bentoboxmag.ca

JUNE 2017

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Ingredient | Rakkyo

By Amanda Plyley

匂いはちょっと曲者…でも、薬効が高い初夏の野菜。 ing with a hint of tartness, it lends itself to a variety of Asian cuisines—particularly Thai and Indonesian—and is traditionally served during Vietnamese New Year celebrations. In addition [V P[Z WSLHZPUN ÅH]V\Y [OPZ I\SIV\Z ]LNNPL VMMLYZ U\[YP[PVUHS ILULÄ[Z [V [OL O\UNY` ZUHJRLY Believed during the Edo period to contain medicinal properties, rakkyo is now known for its ability to aid in digestion and the body’s absorption of vitamins.

Rakkyo

辣 韮 【らっきょう】

Wild scallions There’s an onion that stands out from the crowd—and you’ll ÄUK P[ PU [OL 1HWHULZL KLZLY[ UV SLZZ What comes to mind when you think of onions?

Perhaps it’s the way your eyes tear up over the cutting board, or how your mouth waters when you hear that sweet, sizzling sound of the sauté. Maybe you’re picturing that deliciously crispy, crunchy blooming onion at your local family restaurant. But have you experienced the fresh, comparatively mild taste of rakkyo?

dish in Japanese cuisine but isn’t especially well known outside of Asia. Light and refreshing with a hint of sweetness, a small serving of this pickled onion is often used as a way of IHSHUJPUN V\[ [OL TVYL PU[LUZL ÅH]V\YZ VM V[OLY dishes. It is most often paired with Japanese curry, adding a bit of crunchy freshness in between bites of the rich, creamy main course.

Called many names—including Chinese onion, Japanese scallion and even glittering chive— rakkyo (pronounced “rah-kyo”) is a staple side

Native to China and naturalized in Japan and Korea, rakkyo hails from the onion family which also includes garlic, leeks and shallots. Satisfy-

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So, having a sense of the tasty goodness of rakkyo and in all probability anxious to try it, you’ll have to keep an eye out for tsukemono (Japanese-style pickled vegetables) the next time you visit your local Asian supermarket.

Though rakkyo grows as a dense green plant ^P[O [PU` WPUR ÅV^LYZ P[ YLZLTISLZ WLLSLK cloves of garlic by the time it’s store-ready.

That’s because after the bulbs have been plucked from the ground they are washed, dried, chopped and typically pickled in a mixture of salt, sugar, rice vinegar and chili pepper ÅHRLZ MVY [^V ^LLRZ [V H TVU[O 6UJL VWLULK containers of rakkyo are best kept refrigerated and enjoyed within a couple of weeks. Pair with Japanese curry as mentioned, or enjoy as a snack with a beer or a glass of sake at the end of a long day.

If you’re a fan of rakkyo and planning a trip to Japan, it’s worth a visit to a unique natural landscape associated with the harvesting of these Chinese onions: the Tottori Sand Dunes.

Because rakkyo prefers dry soil and direct sunlight, a desert-like setting provides optimal farming conditions. Spanning over 30 kilometres and dating back 100,000 years, the sand dunes in Tottori Prefecture are quite the sight to behold and attract roughly two million tourists each year.

So before heading out to dinner to try some YHRR`V PU [OL YLNPVU ZUHW H ZLSÄL H[ [OL K\ULZ· your friends are sure to be impressed that you THUHNLK [V ÄUK [OL KLZLY[ PU 1HWHU

Sake | Chogetsu

By Erin Kimura

Sample a new Chogetsu č?Żă‚„㠋㠪錙り㠨ć&#x;”ら㠋㠄飲㠿ĺ?Łă€‚ ç§‹ç”°ă Œç”&#x;ă‚“ă 純繳ĺ?&#x;醸酒。

Chogetsu ćž„ćœˆ 㠥ょ㠆㠒㠤

Popular overseas demand has led Kodama Brewery to produce a 300-ml bottle of Chogetsu just in time for spring!

This new product is available at the following restaurants, which have graciously paired some of their best dishes with Chogetsu to MHU[HZ[PJ LŃœLJ[!

1

2

3

Clear moon shines again A popular sake from Kodama Brewery is making another splash in Ontario.

E

legant, refreshing and with a wicked HYVTH VM [YVWPJHS MY\P[Z HUK Ă…V^LYZ this is a sake to remember.

For those unfamiliar with sake, it could be described as an alcoholic beverage that is produced by fermenting rice. This explanation is easy to understand, but it hides the true beauty of this fascinating and complex drink. In truth, ZHRL JHU [HRL T\S[PWSL MVYTZ 0M P[ PZ `V\Y Ă„YZ[ time sampling sake, what you will immediately notice is the wide breadth of character, fra NYHUJL HUK Ă…H]V\Y WYVĂ„SLZ IL[^LLU IL]LYHNLZ Sake can be sweet or dry, straightforward or complex, delicate or heavy, aromatic or not. In short, sake is a vast world that can take years to explore!

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Braised Abalone | inateijapanesecuisine.com 2 Ginko Japanese Restaurant (Etobicoke)

Gindara Saikyo (black cod) www.ginkojapaneserestaurant.ca 3 Oyster Boy (Downtown Toronto) Oysters | www.oysterboy.ca

January to March, when Kodama brews its ginjo, daiginjo and other premium sakes.

In such cold temperatures, the air stays clean, preventing contamination by various kinds of minor germs. The cold also helps control fer mentation speed, producing sake like Chogetsu that is soft and aromatic.

Chogetsu Junmai Ginjo is one of many sakes to be introduced into the Ontario market over the last few years. Arriving in 2014, Chogetsu (or “clear moonâ€?) made a splash by winning [OL JH[LNVY` NVSK TLKHS PU *HUHKHÂťZ Ă„YZ[ L]LY sake competition: the Toronto International Sake Challenge. Best served slightly chilled, Chogetsu is characterized by its softness. It’s a smooth HUK Ă…H]V\YM\S ZHRL [OH[ PZ PUP[PHSS` MYLZO HUK SPNO[ but ends on a clear note with some sharpness.

The subtleties of sake

1 Inatei Japanese Cuisine (Richmond Hill)

It starts with topnotch ingredients

To discover the story behind Chogetsu you need to start with Kodama Brewery.

Surrounded by the mountains of Akita Prefec ture, Kodama Brewery started as a family busi ness in 1879 producing miso and soy sauce.

By 1913 its operations had expanded to include sake and the Taiheizan brand was born.

Although 104 years is fairly young for a sake brewery, it did not take long for Kodama Brew ery to perfect its craft. In 1934 Taiheizan sake won the prestigious National New Sake Tasting Competition in Japan and it has since gone on to win many more awards internationally.

Part of the brewery’s success can be attributed to Akita’s cold brewing season, especially from

(UV[OLY PTWVY[HU[ JVU[YPI\[VY [V [OL Ă…H]V\Y WYVĂ„SL VM *OVNL[Z\ PZ [OL `LHZ[ H ZTHSS I\[ PT portant ingredient. Kodama Brewery uses yeast ZV\YJLK PU OV\ZL HUK KVTLZ[PJHSS` J\S[P]H[LK This particular strain makes the sake more clear and crisp as well as providing a unique acidity and aroma similar to white wine. Fresh spring water, local Akita Komachi rice and the kimoto brewing method (the most traditional and SHIV\Y PU[LUZP]L TL[OVK VM ZHRL IYL^PUN HSZV contribute to this outstanding sake.

Chogetsu can be found in many downtown ;VYVU[V LZ[HISPZOTLU[Z IV[O Ă„UL KPUPUN Miku Toronto, Ki Modern Japanese + Bar) and ca sual izakaya (Guu Izakaya, Hanmoto), as well as restaurants in the North York area (Hashi Izakaya, Kinka North York).

www.bentoboxmag.ca

JUNE 2017

15

Travel | Kurashiki

By Sylvester Pilgrim

江戸時代の情緒を今もなお色濃く残す白壁の街、 倉敷。

Kurashiki Take a walk in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter and discover another world—with quaint architecture, museums and a vibrant shopping district.

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Okayama Prefecture is located just west of the Kansai area of Japan in a region called Chugoku. The prefecture is famous for its peaches and by extension Momotaro (Peach Boy), a popular hero of Japanese folklore. His story, handed down from generation to generation, is an interesting tale of an old lady who ÄUKZ H IV` PUZPKL VM H NPHU[ WLHJO ;VNL[OLY with her husband she raises the boy, who later confronts a band of demons that has been ravaging the village. This story is just one of the many fascinating aspects of the region. One of the more interesting spots in the prefecture is the city of Kurashiki, which is situated approximately one hour southwest of the capital city of Okayama by way of the JR train line. When you arrive at the main station, you will be an estimated 15-minute walk from the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. Upon entering this

district, you will witness a place beyond your imagination where the past and present meet in harmony. The buildings are an interesting mix of traditional style—some dating back to the 17th century—and modern construction. The structures also display a combination of Japanese and Western design, giving more than just the feeling of a time slip.

Learn some history on your day out Several museums are located here, including the Ohara Museum of Art, which was opened PU HUK JVU[HPUZ [OL ÄYZ[ JVSSLJ[PVU VM Western art to be exhibited permanently in JaWHU /LYL `V\ ^PSS ÄUK WHPU[PUNZ MYVT [OL 0[HSPHU Renaissance as well as Dutch, American and many other artists. There is the Japan Rural

Have a leisurely afternoon in this beautiful city

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Toy Museum, Kake Art Museum and of course Momotaro’s Karakuri Museum. Bundled in the midst of these is Kurashiki Ivy Square, which is a collection of brick buildings all covered with lush green ivy. This establishment was once H JV[[VU TPSS HUK ILMVYL [OH[ P[ ^HZ [OL VѝJL of a local magistrate during the Edo era. Now, OV^L]LY `V\ JHU ÄUK·HTVUN V[OLY [OPUNZ·H YLÄULK OV[LS H ZV\]LUPY Z[VYL HUK H THNUPÄcent courtyard complete with koi ponds and plenty of tables and chairs so you can bask in the radiance of your surroundings.

Those who are interested in trying more outdoor activities can take a step back in time and L_WLYPLUJL H KPќLYLU[ RPUK VM SLPZ\YLS` W\YZ\P[ with a pole boat ride along the canal. You will be given a sugegasa, or traditional Japanesestyle hat, to shade yourself when you step

nal Traditio f ro boat tou ki Kurashi Canal

VU[V [OL SP[[SL IVH[·^OPJO HKKZ H\[OLU[PJP[` to the experience. It is quite picturesque and relaxing to glide past the tree-lined banks and JY\PZL \UKLY [OL Z[VUL IYPKNLZ [OH[ VќLY HJJLZZ across the canal. If you are truly fortunate, you can also share the waterway with one of the swans that call the area home.

If shopping is your thing, you will not be KPZHWWVPU[LK ;OLYL HYL H T`YPHK VM KPќLYLU[ IV\[PX\LZ PU 2\YHZOPRP VќLYPUN SVJHSS` THU\MHJtured merchandise. They have everything from clothing, to handbags, to hats, as well as knickknacks, home decorations and, of course, confectionaries. Browsing through the many KPќLYLU[ T\ZL\TZ HUK ZOVWZ [OH[ SP[[LY [OL HYLH makes for an enjoyable way to pass your day.

Kurashiki 【倉敷】 Kurashiki is a coastal city in Okayama Prefecture that straddles the Takahashi River, which eventually splits into the Oda River.

Continues on page 18 www.bentoboxmag.ca

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17

Travel | Kurashiki

Take a delicious sightseeing break When you would like to take a rest from your strolling and sightseeing and enjoy a meal, I recommend stopping at Antica café. The ÄYZ[ [OPUN `V\ UV[PJL PZ [OL X\HPU[ NHYKLU [OH[ leads to the entrance. There is an open-air patio which lets you soak in the beauty of this outdoor space while enjoying your meal. If the patio happens to be full don’t despair because [OL KtJVY PUZPKL [OL JHMt PZ KLÄUP[LS` UV[ H disappointment. In fact, the atmosphere can be likened to a visit to a friend’s home because as well as the standard tables and chairs you ÄUK H[ TVZ[ JHMtZ HUK YLZ[H\YHU[Z [OL` HSZV have an assortment of comfy sofas to sink into.

The food is tasty and reasonably priced and a speaker system pipes soothing music to accentuate your visit.

Among the local specialties is Murasuzume, a crepe-like pastry consisting of bean paste ^YHWWLK PU H ÅV\Y HUK LNN KV\NO [OH[ PZ SPNO[S` IHRLK ;OL HYLH VќLYZ WSLU[` VM WSHJLZ ^OLYL you can purchase them—and for a small fee, some shops will even let you make your own.

Another local delicacy is Bara-zushi, sometimes called Matsuri-zushi. It is a colourful sushi dish consisting of fresh local seafood, rice and vegetables. As with the Murasuzume, there are plenty of places in the area where you can enjoy this dish. You can also purchase some to go at the department store close to the JR station.

Kurashiki Bikan is a great place to spend a day on your visit to the beautiful country of Japan. It ^PSS [HRL `V\ IHJR PU [PTL HUK VќLY H UVZ[HSNPH that you hadn’t realized existed.

Discover the region’s tasty eats and indulgent treats D

Food & souvenirs These local delicacies will satisfy your appetite without breaking the bank.

Murasuzume

©Kurashiki City Co., Ltd.

To sink your teeth into this wonderful, lightly baked local confectionary is to give comfort food a new meaning and leave yourself wanting more.

Bara-zushi

The symphony of flavours in this homegrown dish is guaranteed to please even the most discriminating of palates.

All photos ©Okayama Prefectural Tourism Federation unless otherwise noted

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G O Let's

llearn earn

N I H O N G O

easy JJapanese apanese Intermediate Hello? もしもし？

Denwa bangͻ (電話番号, phone numbers) are spelled out one digit at a time. To avoid ambiguity, however, 4 and 7 are represented by their kun’yomi (訓読み, Japonic reading), yon (四) and nana (七) respectively.

The particle no (の) here verbally indicates where hyphens would normally be placed in writing.

Moshimoshi?

My phone number is 416-123-4567.

Beginner Moshimoshi (もしもし) is the standard Japanese greeting when answering the phone. This expression originally came from mͻshimͻshi (申し申し), meaning “speaking, speaking,” which was used to test the first phone calls ever made in Japanese long ago.

私の電話番号は 416の123の4567です。 Watashino denwabangȬwa yon-ichi-rokuno ichi-ni-sanno yon-go-roku-nana desu.

What to say during telephone calls

y? .. ney. go, oka o h H otta Ig

H e ll o ?

Like in English, Japanese has a distinct set of telephone greetings.

These useful expressions will help you learn the basics of making and answering phone calls in Japanese.

I am Smith.

Is Mr. Yamada there? 私、 スミスと申します。 山田さんはいらっ しゃいますか？ Watakushi Sumisu-to mȬshimasu. Yamadasanwa irasshaimasuka?

Advanced Phone calls in Japanese tend to be formal, especially in corporate environments and other situations where the caller and receiver may not know each other. Keigo (敬語, polite language) is often used in these cases.

Watakushi is the more formal version of watashi (私, “I”).

It is better to use mͻshimasu instead of iimasu (言います) or desu and irasshaimasu instead of imasu here.

Compiled by Michelle Chow and Kozumi Miya-Woolford. Brought to you by the Toronto Japanese Language School | www.tjls.ca | @tjlsca | principal@tjls.ca

Illustration by Reiko Ema

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19

Only in Japan | Personal chopsticks

By M Crowson

Chopstick minimalist +PZJV]LY LJV MYPLUKS` LH[PUN \[LUZPSZ ^P[O [OL 1HWHULZL ¸4` JOVWZ[PJRZ¹ WOLUVTLUVU 地球に優しいマイ箸は、日本では今やマストアイテムです。 be tempted to buy a set and practice at home!

But of course, chopsticks are best known in the West in disposable form: those single-use, twin wooden sticks that you break apart right before H KLSPJPV\Z [HRLV\[ TLHS VY (ZPHU M\ZPVU MLHZ[ Japanese disposable chopsticks, or waribashi (割り箸 ^LYL ÄYZ[ PU]LU[LK PU [OL Z \ZPUN leftover wood from the cedar mills of Nara 7YLMLJ[\YL ;OL PUNLUPV\Z PKLH W\[ ZJYHW ^VVK [V \ZL PU H ^H` [OH[ L_LTWSPÄLZ [OL YLZV\YJL preserving spirit of mottainai, or “What a waste!” However, as waribashi became popular HSS V]LY [OL ^VYSK [OL` ILNHU [V V]LYÅV^ SHUKÄSSZ >OH[ ^HZ VUJL H YLZV\YJL ZH]PUN WYVK\J[ ILJHTL H ^HZ[LM\S OHIP[

Illustration by Chieko Watanabe

How high do you rate on the global foodie scale? Are chopsticks par for the course for you, or do they send you into a cold sweat?

Have you ever had an embarrassing chopstick moment? If so, don’t worry, you’re not alone— the good news is that using chopsticks gets LHZPLY ^P[O WYHJ[PJL 0U 1HWHULZL JOVWZ[PJRZ are called hashi (箸), and knowledge about hashi use can act as a bridge to understanding broader Japanese culture, which is convenient, since hashi is a homophone for “bridge” (橋 ;V the foreign ear, the words sound pretty much

[OL ZHTL ^P[O Q\Z[ H ZSPNO[ KPќLYLUJL PU PU[VUH[PVU :V SL[»Z MVSSV^ [OPZ WH[O PU[V [OL OLHY[ VM 1HWHULZL J\S[\YL Hashi, or O-hashi, as they’re more respectfully called, are a fundamental part of Japanese J\S[\YL 2PKZ SLHYU [V \ZL [OLT MYVT H `V\UN age, thanks to adorable “training” chopsticks that are attached at the non-eating end, often ^P[O ZVTL J\[L JOHYHJ[LY MHJL ;OL`»YL \Z\HSS` smaller, in order to accommodate child-sized hands, but adults with chopstick phobia might

Concerns about the environmental impact of waribashi gave birth to “My chopsticks” (マイハシ), the eco-friendly phenomenon that’s Z^LLWPUN [OL UH[PVU ¸4` JOVWZ[PJRZ¹ HYL WVYtable, personal chopsticks you can take with `V\ HU`^OLYL ;OL` \Z\HSS` JVTL PU HU LSegant, foldable cloth cover, or sometimes in H OHUK` WSHZ[PJ JHZL >OPSL bento enthusiasts know you can buy bento boxes that come with their own set of chopsticks nestled into a special compartment, “My chopsticks” are a great, earth-friendly alternative for people who don’t pack their own lunch, or who often buy conveUPLUJL Z[VYL TLHSZ ;OL` YLK\JL ^HZ[L [HRL up minimal space in your bag and make a nice conversation piece for that awkward conferLUJL S\UJO IYLHR

Cradle, don’t chop Despite the name, “chopsticks” are not meant for chopping.

Avoid looking like a I\ɈVVU I` MVSSV^PUN these three rules of chopstick etiquette:

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DO NOT

DO

DO NOT

rub your disposable sticks together.

take your time.

play with your chopsticks.

If you have to use waribashi, don’t commit this common sin unless [OLYL HYL SHYNL ZWSPU[LYZ OHUNPUN Vќ

Studies show that we eat slower with chopsticks, which allows us to savour the meal, aids digestion HUK KPZJV\YHNLZ V]LYLH[PUN

Would you air-drum with a knife, or point to dishes with a fork? No? ,UV\NO ZHPK

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21

Kyoto Sagano Bamboo Grove & Arashiyama Walking Tour with Yakatabune Lunch Cruise

1 Walk through the Sagano Bamboo Grove surrounded by the scenic views of Mt. Arashiyama. This tour is accompanied by an Englishspeaking guide.

2 Visit the temple gardens of Tenryu-ji, a World Heritage Site considered to be one of Kyoto’s best Zen temples.

3 Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto city from Jojakko-ji Temple.

4 Enjoy a traditional yakatabune cruise. (Lunch is included.)

TOUR BASIC INFORMATION Departure City: Kyoto Tour: Monday, Wednesday and Saturday Visits: Kyoto, Duration: Approx. 4 hours English-speaking guide, admission, transportation fees and one lunch are included in this tour.

PRICE

CAD $

175

All photos ©JNTO

*Price is for the month of June 2017 *Price may fluctuate monthly based on exchange rate.

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

8:40

New Miyako Hotel

Jojakko-ji Temple

30

min

Walk to Kyoto Station

This temple overlooks the town of Sagano and the city of Kyoto. The area is famous for its beautiful scenery when the mountain is covered in coloured leaves in autumn.

Go from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station

Tenryu-ji Temple

min

Togetsu-kyo Bridge Togetsu-kyo Bridge is a famous 250-metrelong bridge in Arashiyama, and offers a spectacular location for viewing cherry blossoms or coloured autumn leaves.

30

min

A World Heritage Site. The Japanese garden is complemented by the beautiful landscapes of Arashiyama, and has been registered as one of Japan’s World Heritage Sites.

Sagano Bamboo Grove Enjoy a relaxing walk through the Sagano Bamboo Grove.

30

min

15

JR Rapid Service or Local Train Service.

This tour uses public transportation with non-reserved seats. Seating cannot be guaranteed.

Board the Yakatabune Boat for a Japanese-style lunch

Guide service ends once participants have reached the boat boarding pier. Japanese lunch is served. Vegetarian lunch is not available. If the boat cruise is not operated due to high tide, etc., the lunch is served at a local restaurant. In this case, ¥2,000 per person will be refunded.

30

min

Tour ends after lunch Please head back to Kyoto Station or your next destination on your own after the tour.

This tour ends at the boat pier. Participants will receive a JR train ticket for travel from Saga-Arashiyama to Kyoto.

*This tour uses public transportation with non-reserved seats. Please note that seating is not guaranteed. *As this is a walking tour, please wear shoes and clothing that are suitable for walking. The total walking distance for this tour is approximately 3 km.

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

JUNE 2017

23

Everybody likes a good night’s sleep Relax your way through the hot summer nights with MUJI’s ultra-soft, ultra-breathable bedding.

Interview with

Kenneth Atienza Sales Associate, MUJI Atrium

Summer is here and we can finally shed those heavy coats and puffy jackets. Some of you might be getting ready to hit the beach, while some are seeking ideal patios for a pint of beer ‌ No matter how you spend your summer days, everyone likes to get a good sleep at night. And when it comes to sleep, comfort is key.

As the nights get hotter, MUJI is offering a summer bedding solution on its shelves.

“Oh, it gets softer as you wash it. It may be a IP[ Z[PŃœ YPNO[ UV^ I\[ P[ KLĂ„UP[LS` NL[Z ZVM[LY in the wash. And another thing that is good about linen is that it’s absorbent. So, if you are a person who sweats at night, linen bedding is better compared to other options—and it’s also quick to dry.â€?

0U HKKP[PVU [V SPULU 4<10 VŃ&#x153;LYZ JV[[VU HUK QLYZL` bedding. Crisp cotton and soft jersey are also great options for a comfortable nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep,

and Kenneth notes that linen bedding is great all through the yearâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for summer as well as for winter (or for those who keep the air conditioning cranked up during summer nights). ¸>L KV VŃ&#x153;LY H ZLSLJ[PVU VM ^PU[LY ILKKPUN when the winter season comes, but linen bedding can be used all through the year by adding an extra layer of blankets. And make use of a duvet cover! Some people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use a duvet during the summer because it gets too hot, but in winter, a duvet with a linen cover can be a good option as it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be too heavy or too light.â&#x20AC;?

One parting tip from Kenneth, who oversees all textiles at MUJI Atrium, including bedding and clothing items: â&#x20AC;&#x153;When washing your bedding, I would recommend not using the dryer.

In general, this could be said for all our garments: we recommend washing them with cold water and hanging them to dry. If you would like to use the dryer, our recommendation is to set it on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Air -S\Ń&#x153;Âť [V THRL [OL P[LTZ SHZ[ longer. With any material, including prewashed material, too much heat will shrink it.â&#x20AC;?

Good to know!

We asked Kenneth to tell us more about MUJIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beddingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; especially their linen bedding, ^OPJO PZ VUS` VŃ&#x153;LYLK K\YPUN [OL summer season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Linen bedding lines are great for summer. One thing about linen covers is they are more breathable compared to other covers. On top of that, they are already washed and they have a wrinkled look.â&#x20AC;? Linen bedding does look very inviting with its comfy, slightly rumpled appearanceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;you can believe that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more breathable than your average bedding, suitable for summer sleep. But, for those seeking a cosy night, hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the big question: PZUÂť[ SPULU H IP[ Z[PŃ&#x153;&

For more information

www.muji.com/ca 24

JUNE 2017

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g This woven beddin

RI MW QEHI [MXL Âż n French and Belgia linens.

The more you use it, the softer it gets.

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

+\Ń&#x153;LYPU :[ ;VYVU[V

Store Hours: Monâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Fri 10 amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;8 pm :H[ HTÂś WT ŕ Ž :\U HTÂś WT

Store Hours: Monâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Fri 10 amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;9 pm :H[ ! HTÂś WT ŕ Ž :\U HTÂś WT

Store Hours: Monâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Fri 10 amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;9 pm :H[ ! HTÂś WT ŕ Ž :\U HTÂś WT

TEL: 416-479-1204

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25

Hit the books | Kokeshi

By M Crowson

All dolled up for a good cause Kokeshi:

More from Manami Okazaki

From Tohoku with Love

Kimono Now From gangster chic to Harajuku street style, this book shows how the kimono continues to be one of Japan’s most exciting wardrobe elements.

by Manami Okazaki Six years after the 3/11 triple disaster of Tohoku, Okazaki’s book continues to shine a light on the art and culture behind the region’s charming, endangered Kokeshi doll-making tradition.

Author info

Manami Okazaki is an author and journalist. She has produced 10 books on Japanese culture, art, crafts and fashion, which have been widely acclaimed by international media. She specializes in traditional Japanese culture, popular culture, travel, style, fashion and subcultures.

>OLU P[ ^HZ ÄYZ[ W\ISPZOLK PU 4HUHTP Okazaki’s coffee table book, Kokeshi: From Tohoku with Love, highlighted traditional artisans from Tohoku, the region hit hard by the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disasters of 4HYJO 7YVJLLKZ MYVT [OL ÄYZ[ WYPU[PUN were donated to Tohoku-related charities, organizations that brought relief to locals HўPJ[LK I` [OL KPZHZ[LY ;OL OHYKIV\UK M\SS colour reprint brings attention once again to an art form in danger of extinction, and to the people still struggling with the fallout of the triple disaster of 3/11, which resulted in 15,891 initial deaths and 2,579 missing persons. ;VOVR\ YLZPKLU[Z OH]L JVU[PU\LK [V Z\ќLY WO`ZPJHS HUK WZ`JOVSVNPJHS LќLJ[Z HUK THU` displaced residents were forced to relocate to UL^ JVTT\UP[PLZ ^OLYL [OL` OH]L Z\ќLYLK bullying and stigmatization in schools and at work. Okazaki’s book is an important reminder of Tohoku’s humanity and artistry.

Okazaki focuses on the production of Kokeshi, traditional handmade wooden dolls known for their lack of arms and legs and their charming painted faces. Kokeshi disciples spend a KLJHKL [YHPUPUN [V ILJVTL VѝJPHS HY[PZHUZ HUK 26

JUNE 2017

Kawaii! Japan’s Culture of Cute

www.bentoboxmag.ca

because each doll is custom made with the greatest care, the process of ordering a doll to getting one in hand can take months. Kokeshi artisan numbers have dwindled since the advent of mass-produced, disposable plastic toys, but there’s currently a boom in interest among collectors who appreciate the Kokeshi’s craftsmanship and durability, and the rich beauty that each doll gains with age.

Originally, Kokeshi were children’s toys created out of scrap wood in hot spring towns during the 1800s. The dolls eventually became symbols of healing and rejuvenation, as visitors and workers travelled to the hot springs for the healing power of the natural waters. Okazaki’s book balances the history and variety of Kokeshi production with plenty of full-colour photos.

The photos also give us a glimpse into the workshops of contemporary Kokeshi artisans, and a step-by-step explanation of their process, transforming untreated wood (dogwood, camellia, painted maple, melon maple, zelkova and cherry, to name a few) into delicately painted Kokeshi dolls.

S Showcasing Japan’s astonJ ishingly varied culture of cute, c tthis volume takes tthe reader on a jjourney through all things kawaii. a

The book details 11 styles of traditional Kokeshi, as well as more contemporary styles.

Okazaki also interviews 23 artisans, highlightPUN PU[LYLZ[PUN KPќLYLUJLZ PU [OLPY WLYZVUHSP[PLZ and styles. No interview asks exactly the same questions, so the chapters don’t get repetitive, and each interview includes pictures of the artist’s own Kokeshi. The overall picture is compelling for anyone interested in traditional Japanese culture, but will be especially great for readers who are also artists in their own right.

Of course, you don’t have to be an artist to appreciate the book. Okazaki includes resources for people who are interested in travelling to Tohoku to get their hands on a Kokeshi, as well as instructions for those who want to order one from abroad. One chapter lays out the directions to famous hot spring towns and museums where Kokeshi dolls are made, complete with an adorable illustrated map of the famous artistic and cultural symbols of Aomori, Akita, Iwate, Miyagi, Yamagata and Fukushima Prefectures. ;OL ÄUHS JOHW[LYZ HYL KL]V[LK [V PU[YVK\Jing Tohoku’s famous hot springs and raucous culture festivals, an ideal primer for anyone planning to visit the region in the near future.

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27

Tech spotlight

By Amanda Taylor

Sony

MDR-1000X

Noise Cancelling Headphones

Sonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s industry-leading headphones block out noise XJUIPVU TBDSJĂ DJOH TBGFUZ 5IF 2VJDL "UUFOUJPO GVODUJPOality lets wearers easily tune JO UP UIF XPSME PVUTJEF

Award-winning sound quality These headphones were named the best noise cancelling headphones over ÂŁ100 by What Hi-Fi?â&#x20AC;&#x201D;the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading independent guide to Hi-Fi entertainment products.

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The MDR-1000X Noise Cancelling Headphones come loaded with an array of impressive features. Superior noise cancellation, high-quality sound, two ambient noise modes, touch sensor functionality and a competitive price put Sonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new headphones among the top noise cancelling options on the market.

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to nap on a crowded train or watch a video inside a busy cafĂŠ, these headphones have got you covered. They feature some of the most thorough noise cancellation available, removing disruptive ambient sound while maintaining clean, high-resolution H\KPV X\HSP[` ;OLZL OLHKWOVULZ HYL H JLY[PĂ&#x201E;LK top player in the wireless, noise cancelling headphone game.

And if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re travelling and need to hear announcements, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to tune in. The Quick Attention function lets you temporarily suspend the headphonesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; noise cancellation feature.

Cupping the right earphone activates Quick Attention mode, which immediately drops the volume and turns on the embedded microphone to bring in outside noise, great for when someone is trying to get your attention. The headphones also feature two ambient modes: one that lets in all outside noise and one that Ă&#x201E;S[LYZ VUS` ]VPJLZ [OYV\NO

Sony has always been at the forefront when it comes to audio quality, and the MDR-1000X headphones take that trend and run with it. Top of the line noise cancellation combined with HiFi quality audio streaming creates unparalleled depth of sound.

These headphones are lightweight without feeling cheap and come with a hard carrying case to keep them well protected. Touch sensors on the right earphone let users skip forward, backward and adjust the volume with a quick swipe. And with Bluetooth connectivity, the embedded microphone for making calls and up to 20 hours of battery life, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clear why the well-rounded MDR-1000X model has quickly become a standout.

Sony MDR-1000X Noise Cancelling Headphones $449.99 www.sony.ca

arrtt feels likebipa sttrroo ning room h nc re Ryus’ dish F rt noodle op, pa

Staff

Chef Ta kahashi and the author

Walter Muschenheim

TAKAHASHI’S laboratory

The combination of tradition and invention at Ryus Noodle Bar showcases a chef’s unique sensibility.

I

n front of you is a familiar bowl of ramen: gently coddled egg, rich, steaming broth and curly noodles heaped with glistening slices of smoky chashu pork—and, perched on top like a coquettish beret, a bright green tangle of arugula. At the sight of this unconventional topping, you are no longer quite sure what you’re in for.

This novel combination is the invention of Chef Takahashi of Ryus Noodle Bar, a Baldwin Village favourite for students and locals.

Chef Takahashi’s path to opening his own ramen restaurant began, unusually, when he worked as a business consultant for a restaurant management company in Japan. Meanwhile, on his own time, he became passionate about Western styles of cooking and began honing his skills in French and Italian cuisines. When he decided to open his

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Walter is a Toronto-bas W ed translator and writer. A real globetrotter , he has lived in France, Germany and the United States and explored Euro pe and Japan.

On O his adventures, he loves to learn abo a ut languages and food: the two corn corr erstones of culture!

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own place and bring contemporary ramen to Toronto, he brought his culinary curiosity along. He describes Ryus Noodle Bar as a kind of laboratory where he can explore his inspirations.

The mysterious wood-slatted exterior hides a bright and airy dining room that feels like it KYH^Z HZ T\JO PUÅ\LUJL MYVT H -YLUJO IPZ[YV as a Japanese noodle shop. This French inspiration also extends to Ryus’ dishes, especially in their tendency to bring out the essence of a small number of ingredients. The broth of the Pork Blaster Ramen is created from a blend of three separate stocks—pork bone, chicken and vegetable—and you can taste the complexity of each. The sauce for the Angus Beef Curry Dip n’ Noodles showcases the richness of roast beef HNHPUZ[ H IHJRNYV\UK VM YVI\Z[ ÄZO ÅH]V\YZ! H taste of home for Japanese palates that creates a surprising mix of the familiar and the adven-

turous for North American diners. Topping both dishes, Ryus’ signature peppery arugula adds a hint of brightness.

With a sister restaurant set to open on the Danforth this summer, Chef Takahashi is ready to take his creations out of the lab. He is planning a more focused menu for the second location, distilling everything he has learned into the perfect package to introduce ramen culture into a UL^ WHY[ VM [OL JP[` ;OL NSVIL[YV[[PUN ÅH]V\YZ of Ryus Noodle Bar seem primed to conquer new territory!

Ryus Noodle Bar 33 Baldwin St., Toronto | 647-344-9306 www.ryusnoodlebar.com OPEN: 4VU¶:H[ HT¶ ! WT :\U HT¶ WT