WAttention Singapore vol 42 by WAttention

Singapore Edition

Tokyo - Malaysia - L.A - Taiwan - Thailand - Paris - Hong Kong - Indonesia - Mexico - Australia

TA K E FREE

Jan/ Feb 2018 VOL.42 MCI (P) 120/08/2017

g n i r e h s U 始年年末

8 1 0 2“WA” in

way 和道

t he

Uncover the many faces of Setouchi Region

Alcoholic Adventures in Japan

Your go-to SG places for Japanese alcohol

www.wattention.com

VOL.42

SPECIAL FEATURES

ゆく年くる年2018！絶景なる瀬戸内と魅惑の酒 SPECIAL FEATURE

Uncover the many faces of Setouchi Region

Yasuko Suzuki WAon Pte Ltd 2A/2B Craig Road Singapore 089662 Tel: (65) 6324-2127 E-mail: singapore@wattention.com

– Your perfect four-day model itinerary

Ayako Miyazaki

– Setouchi City: legendary swords, stunning landscapes & romantic islands 18

Publisher

How Japanese say Sayonara to 2017 & usher in the New Year

Editor in Chief Advertising Sales Miyoko Takeuchi / Hana Omori / Mikako Suzuki Yuka Enomoto / Soh Yue Hua / Sumako McAree

Editorial Team Lam Ying Wai / Arisa Matsuo Sarah Wee / Michelle Kan

Design Team Chew Yan Qiao / Eric Voon Ariko Urano / Yuri Sato

Japan Editorial & Design Team 22

Alcoholic Adventures in Japan Your go-to SG places for Japanese alcohol this year end

WAt’S New?

JPN47 Vol.20 – Shimane

WA Seh – The Really Useful Japan Travel Guide Vol. 05

Japan Travel & Beyond – Early Spring Guide

Event & Information

NHK Recipe Vol.04

Why “WAttention”? WAttention is so named with the hope that people in the world would pay more “Attention” to “WA（和）”; an important term in Japanese culture meaning harmony with nature, peace and even Japanese culture itself! *Prices reﬂected in the magazine are exclusive of GST *All restaurants featured reserve the right to alter their respective promotional periods and prices

世界中の人々に「和」（WA）に注目（Attention）してほしいという願いを込めて WA+Attention= WAttentionと名づけました。

Yuka Suzuki / Kenji Ishida

Photographer Maiko Yoshimoto

Partners WAttention Co., Ltd

Cover Photo Yamazaki Distillery, Himeji Castle

Special Thanks ASAHI FOOD CREATE,LTD,ASAHI BEER COMMUNICATAIONS HOKKAIDO Branch, SUNTORY HOLDINGS LIMITED.,Beam SUNTORY INC.Suntory Wine International Ltd.,Hakkaisan Brewery CO.,LTD, Hokusetsu shuzou, Minamiuonuma City Hall 本誌に関する日本国内でのお問い合わせ先和テンション株式会社 Tel: +81 3-6418-5701 Fax: +81 3-6862-6760 E-mail: info-tokyo@wattention.com

Prices printed are indicative only.

WAttention is a publication of WAon Pte Ltd. All articles published are in good faith and based on bonaﬁde information available to The Publisher at the time of press. The Publisher accepts no responsibility other than that stipulated by law. The Publisher also accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced in part or full without the previous written permission of The Publisher. Neither can any part be stored or recorded, by any means. The opinions expressed in The Publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher. This publication and the name are owned solely by WAon Pte Ltd, 2A/2B Craig Road, (S)089662. Email: singapore@wattention.com. WAttention is published bimonthly and distributed throughout Singapore. Trademarks and copyrights for all other products, logos and depictions contained herein are the properties of their respective trademark and copyright owners.

Paper from Responsible Forests All colour separation and printing by NPE PRINT COMMUNICATIONS PTE LTD Licence No. L001/12/2017 39 & 41 Kallang Place, Singapore 339169 Distributor: DJ Express Services

WAttention Singapore |

Get Ready for Singapore's Largest Japanese Pop Culture Countdown Party! Welcome 2018 with these awesome acts

DJ Caesar Cleverly mixing anime songs at trendy clubs, DJ Caesar quickly made a name for himself reviving the stagnant club scene in Tokyo. Since 2007, he has appeared in many big events featuring unique performing artists which made news on major media outlets. Besides deejaying, he also teaches voice actors and talents.

After debuting in 2013, Matsushita has gained a wide following of enthusiastic fans who can’t get enough of her husky voice. Performing mainly anime and game songs, she is an avid gamer and identifies as a fujoshi. With over 12 million views on her videos, this is one act you simply cannot miss!

MATSUSHITA

KURONEKO

Blessed with amazing vocals, Underbar got his name from the first video he posted on Niconico Douga under the moniker “__” (meaning anonymous), that appeared as two underbars. The popular artist frequently uploads VOCALOID songs with different arrangements and has performed at many events and concerts.

With over 98,000 followers on Instagram, fan favourite Kuroneko made her major debut as part of the idol group “Panache” in October 2012 through Sony Music. After the group disbanded, she continued with a slew of solo activities as an emcee, deejay and event producer, both in Japan and overseas.

UNDERBAR D'Marquee@Downtown East 1 Pasir Ris Close, Downtown East, S(519599) info@magika.com.sg

magika.sg

31st Dec - 1st Jan 5pm - 1am magika.sg

暦 Koyomi 2 January

こよみを楽しむ

IN HARMONY WITH THE SEASONS

Kakizome 書き初め

text & coordination/ Rieko Ido, photo/ Hajime Watanabe 文とスタイリング:井戸理恵子、写真:渡辺肇

On the 2 nd of January, many Japanese people practice Kakizome, the ﬁrst calligraphy writing of their New Year’s resolution on a fresh sheet of white paper. Over the centuries, writing was only practiced among the aristocrats and the ability to write and draw was seen as something very special and admirable. It was at the end of the Edo period (1603–1867) when common people started learning how to write. As each New Year arrived, many were determined to improve their writing and drawing skills and would dedicate their own calligraphy and 6

| WAttention Singapore

drawings to shrines. These artworks were burned in the holy ﬁre known as Dondo Yaki on the 15th of January. Only when the smoke rose high in the sky and the drawings burned completely, would the god grant their wishes. This picture shows the ﬁrst sentence of the famous story “Makura No Soshi (The Pillow Talk)”, written by Sei Shonagon (966-1025), a female author during the Heian Period (794-1185). It means “in spring it is the dawn that is most beautiful,” which perfectly describes the beginning of a new season. You can

feel the excitement of the author as she welcomes in the New Year. With a fresh calligraphy brush and a blank sheet of paper in front of us, let us ask ourselves what it is that we really want for the New Year. This quiet time is sure to bring about peaceful self-reﬂection, and is an exemplary way in which our ancestors welcomed the New Year.

Rieko Ido A graduate of Kokugakuin University, researcher of ancient Japanese customs and knowledge, conducting technical analysis on ﬁndings to apply them to modern lifestyles. Currently teaches at Tama Art University.

アテンション！新登場

WAt’S Somerset

Shikisai TEN Japanese Dining 四季彩天 Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard Centre #01-13/14, 11 Cavenagh Road | 6737-4929 Mon-Sat 5pm – 12am (L.O. 11pm), Closed on Sun 四季彩天 TEN Japanese Dining

ten_ japanese_dining

Delight your senses with exquisite Kappo cuisine

[ Promotion ] Like their FB page

to enjoy 5% oﬀ all menu items or

This small but elegant restaurant serves a selection of handmade Kappo-style dishes designed to satisfy all your Japanese food cravings. Made with care by an experienced chef, diners will ﬁnd it hard to resist seasonal dishes that are cooked before their very eyes. Try the juicy Iwate beef steak or the rich, ﬂavourful doteyaki (どて焼き) with tender pieces of stewed beef sinew and konnyaku (蒟蒻, konjac). Aside from delectable food, seasonal fruit cocktails and other alcoholic beverages are available at the bar counter. With a private room that accommodates around six people and counter space seating up to 10, this is the ideal location for business dinners or casual gatherings alike.

Iwate Beef Doteyaki ............................... $13 Iwate Beef Steak (100g) ..........................$60

Like & Share their FB page

to enjoy 10% oﬀ menu items

Homemade Fried Sesame Tofu ............. $10 Suntory Premium Malt’s ........................... $13

Tanjong Pagar

Mitsu Sushi Bar 21 Duxton Road | 6221-0888 Daily 12pm – 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm), 6pm – 11pm (L.O. 10.30pm) mitsusushibar.com @mitsusushibar

Skilful sushi creations for everyone

[ Promotion ]

Robertson Quay

Lucieo Tokyo

Upward Lash (unlimited) $160→$110 Volume Lash (unlimited) $160→$110 Single Lash (130 pieces) $130→$90 ルシェオ東京

#01-32 Robertson Walk, 11 Unity Street | 9780-8294 (SMS for appointment) Mon-Sun 10am – 8pm lucieo.sg

Say hello to thick, dreamy lashes!

Headed by Chef Tatsuro Mitsuyasu who has trained for 11 years in Tokyo, there is no doubt that you will taste remarkable things at this newly opened restaurant. Watch as he grills whole anago (穴子, saltwater eel) in front of your eyes, or taste the freshness of whole ﬁsh brought in from Tsukiji market daily, prepared in a variety of cooking styles for your enjoyment!

Lunch Set .......................................................................... from $18 Dinner Set ........................................................................ from $42 Omakase Dinner Course .............................................. from $108

[ Promotion ] Mention WAttention

to enjoy 10% oﬀ any food item. * Valid till May’18.

With their original salon located in the stylish Omotesando hub, this eyelash specialist is sure to satisfy all your lash needs. They are one of the few places certiﬁed in the UPwardlash® technique, a revolutionary method taught in Japan, which instantly lifts droopy eyes to give you a fresh and bright look. Choose from natural-looking single lashes or go for volume lashes to make a lasting impression! WAttention Singapore |

Uncover the many faces of Setouchi Region OKAYAMA

Stretching along the scenic coastline of Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu is an area characterised by mild climate and a calm inland sea dotted with beautiful islands — The Setouchi Region. One of the world’s greatest archipelagos, it includes an estimated 3,000 isles and is home to worldfamous sites and iconic attractions. Be blown away by the best that Setouchi has to oﬀer with our specially curated four-day itinerary, perfect for those on a tight schedule!

Day 1

HYOGO

HIROSHIMA

HIMEJI STATION

KANSAI AIRPORT

From Shin-Osaka Station To Himeji Station 29 min To Okayama Station 45 min To Hiroshima Station 1hr 30min

From Tokyo Station To Himeji Station To Okayama Station To Hiroshima Station

3hrs 03min 3hrs 10min 3hrs 56min Shinkansen

Soak In History and The Arts There is no better way to begin exploring the area’s historical buildings than with the elegant Himeji Castle (姫路城 ). Otherwise known as the White Heron Castle due to its appearance, the grand structure is both a national treasure and a world heritage site. More than 400 years old, the castle has over eighty buildings within its compounds connected by a labyrinth of paths and numerous gates. Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum

Found in Osafune (長船町 ), an old town located within Okayama Prefecture, the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum (備前長船刀剣博物館) is a dream come true for history buﬀs or fans of samurai. Here, you can watch master craftsmen practicing the art of sword-making; from shaping and polishing of the blade to painting of the sheath.

©Himeji City

Regarded as one of the top three landscape gardens in Japan, Okayama Korakuen (岡山後楽園) was constructed over a period of 14 years during the Edo Period. Once used as a place for entertaining important guests by the feudal lord Ikeda Tsunamasa, the garden has been open to the public since 1884. Ponds, rice ﬁelds and even a crane aviary can be found on its premises.

Okayama Korakuen

Day 2 Rejuvenating Power Spots

Kick oﬀ your second day with a relaxing stroll around the perfectly preserved canal area of Kurashiki (倉敷), the “town of storehouses”. Many of them have since been converted into museums, cafes and boutiques, with Ohara Museum being one of its most impressive pitstops. The private museum features Western art and is the oldest in Japan, founded by renowned collector Magosaburo Ohara. Sensuijima

Kurashiki

Stop by to recharge at Taichoro (對潮楼). Oﬀering a million-dollar view of the nearby Bentenjima and Sensuijima through the veranda, visitors may be surprised to ﬁnd a statue of Maria Kannon housed here. Made to look like the Buddhist Bodhisattva Kannon during the Edo Period (as Christianity was banned at the time), the statue is actually that of Virgin Mary. 8

| WAttention Singapore

SHINOSAKA STATION

Taichoro

End the day with a trip to Sensuijima (仙酔島), found in Fukuyama City, Hiroshima. This power spot located within the Setonaikai National Park is surrounded by pristine blue waters and rich greenery. Drink in the scenic sights on the island, where you can spot natural phenomena such as the Goshikiiwa (五色岩 , five-coloured rocks) and sea fireflies.

Day 3

The 60-kilometer-long Shimanami Kaido (しまなみ海道) highway links Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture to Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture, and is the world’s longest series of suspension bridges. This bicycle-friendly route extends over six smaller islands in between, so cyclists can stop to admire and photograph the sublime views of the Seto Inland Sea along the way.

Glimpse into The Past Jump back in time with a visit to Saijo Sake Town (西条酒の街), a small area where you will encounter some of the world’s most prestigious and oldest sake breweries. A total of eight breweries dot the streets in this neighbourhood; stop by each one to learn more about their traditional brewing processes, sample unique sake and purchase some sake-related souvenirs!

Saijo Sake Town

Shimanami Kaido

Saijo Sake Town

Day 4

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum ( 広島平和記念資料館 ) was opened in 1955 with the aim of advocating world peace and to push for the elimination of nuclear weapons. A grim yet powerful reminder of the destructive nature of man-made weaponry, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial or Genbaku Dome( 原爆ドーム) was the only structure left standing after the atomic bombing in 1945. The site has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Genbaku Dome

Picture-perfect Island Adventure Slightly over 500 meters above sea level, Mt. Misen (弥山) is a sacred mountain and the highest peak on Miyajima. You can either hike up the mountain via its three main trails (Momijidani is the shortest but steepest while Daisho-in oﬀers the best views) or take the ropeway, which cuts through the lush forests of the area. Stop by the Reikado (Hall of Spiritual Flame) to see the ﬁre lit by the legendary Kōbō-Daishi when he began worshipping there.

Mt.Misen

Nearby the Five-storied-Pagoda, there is Toyokuni Shrine, called Senjōkaku (千畳閣), literally translated as the “pavilion of a thousand mats” as the building is roughly the size of one thousand tatami mats. Commissioned by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of the three uniﬁers of Japan, the sparse hall was built for chanting Buddhist sutras for fallen soldiers but was never fully completed.

With more than 1,400 years of history, Itsukushima Shrine (嚴島神社 )’s star attraction is the “ﬂoating” torii gate. Since ancient times, people have revered the island as goddesses — the great torii serves as the boundary between the spirit and human worlds. Contrary to popular belief, the base of the torii is not buried in the seabed but stands by its own weight. Held secure by custom-made wedges driven into intersections to absorb movements and keep the six pillars and roof stable, it does not move even during typhoons or earthquakes.

©Itsukushima Shrine

Superb souvenirs from Setouchi Aside from tasty snacks, why not bring home a pair of quality jeans from Okayama Denim? Made in an area with a long history of producing textiles, the superior durability and attention to detail in each pair will make this a purchase you will never regret!

http://visithiroshima.net/

www.okayama-japan.jp/en/

www.himeji-kanko.jp/en/

WAttention Singapore |

Setouchi City:

Setouchi City Tokyo

Osaka

legendary swords, stunning Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum: The Home of the Japanese Sword

here are three essential elements to Japanese swords: their use, their beauty and their spirit. The use refers

to its ability to cut; its beauty can be judged by its appearance, whether or not its style or shape is beautiful. These two elements are probably the same for swords made in other countries. However, only Japanese swords have a spirit. When I became a swordsmith, I understood the importance of the spirit. In order to preserve our katana, we have to teach the next generation the importance of not just the use and the beauty but also the spirit. - Yokoi Shouji/Sword smith

asically, they are said to be works of art, but from our point of view, that’s just the result. People look at

them and think they are just works of art because they are no longer used as swords, but we make them capable of serving their purpose, as if they were actually going to be used. We ensure that they can fulﬁll their functionality. It is precisely because of this functionality that they are beautiful. – Yukinori Hashimoto/Hilt maker

Photo by Takemi Nishi

Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum Hours: 9am – 5pm (last admission 4.30pm) Admission: General admission ¥500, discount available for students and seniors. Access: From Okayama Station, take a 30 min train ride on the JR Ako line to Osafune Station and then a 7 min taxi ride to the museum. URL: www.okayama-japan.jp/en/spot/1073 12

| WAttention Singapore

Iron sand, magnolia wood, ray skin and silk threads are some of the raw materials that are transformed into both a deadly weapon and a work of art at the hands of seven diﬀerent types of artisans. In Japan, swords have always been considered true treasures, and although they are no longer wielded in battle, they are currently sought after by collectors, oﬀered as presents to shrines or simply acquired as an amulet to prevent bad luck.

One of the proudest traditions among the five different schools of sword-making in Japan is Bizen Osafune, where around half of the existing swords designated as National Treasures were made. The area flourished due to its strategic location and the abundance of iron sand in the surrounding mountains, which is used to make steel clusters (the raw material to forge swords). The Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum in Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, exhibits a variety of masterpieces and is the only place in Japan that offers a demonstration of the old method of forging a sword by hammering and folding an iron clump, held on the second Sunday of each month. You can also order your own custom-made Japanese sword at the museum. The museum is also the only place in Japan where visitors can take a peek into the ateliers of all seven kinds of artisans that create Japanese swords in a single venue. From the forge where sword smiths give the blade its shape to the polisher with his eight different kinds of whetstones, to the collar blade maker, the scabbard maker, the scabbard lacquerer, the engraver and the hilt maker. Only after seeing the artisans deep in concentration can you truly understand why Japanese swords have achieved a worldwide reputation as the ultimate weapon.

Access: Oku and Osafune Stations in Setouchi City can be easily reached in approximately 30 minutes by train on the JR Ako line from Okayama Station, which is just an hour away by Shinkansen from Kyoto and 35 minutes away from Hiroshima. Flying from Tokyo takes about an hour.

landscapes & romantic islands

Ushimado

Facing the Seto Inland Sea, Ushimado has a long history as a ship-making town that made it a prominent port in the area. Today, however, it is known for its stunning landscape of deep blue waters dotted with dozens of small islands, earning the area the nickname “The Aegean Sea of Japan”. The climate resembles that of the Mediterranean, creating the perfect conditions for olive growing. Ushimado Olive Garden, located on top of a hill, boasts breathtaking views of the idyllic landscape from its observatory, while a wide variety of olive based cosmetics are for sale in the souvenir shop.

Ushimado Shrine sits on the top of a hill next to the beach and is often visited by couples wishing for success in their love life.

A visit to Ushimado would not be complete without a stroll around its picturesque streets, ﬁlled with historical buildings such as Honrenji Temple, which used to welcome Korean diplomats on their way to Edo (Tokyo) and was recently registered in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme, or the old wooden tower that served as a lighthouse for passing ships. Some of the beautiful wooden buildings that served as warehouses or living quarters for the merchants of Ushimado back in the Edo period have now become trendy cafés oﬀering the perfect opportunity to take a break from your tour. Access: From Okayama Station, take a 25 min train ride on the JR Ako line to Oku Station and then a 20 min bus ride to Ushimado bus stop.

Touring the islands of Ushimado from The Hotel Limani & Spa Ushimado’s dreamy landscape can also be enjoyed from the water. Visitors can rent a yacht and explore the area at their own pace, or head over to The Hotel Limani & Spa. From there, both guests of the hotel and general tourists can make use of the speedboat service that takes passengers from Ushimado to Kuroshima, an uninhabited island famous for its Venus Road. This stretch of sand appears on low tide, connecting Kuroshima Island, Nakanokojima Island and the nearby Hatanokojima Island. The Venus road and a heart-shaped rock found on the island give it a romantic atmosphere, making it popular among couples.

The Hotel Limani & Spa itself is a great option for spending a few days, featuring a Greek-inspired architecture of white and blue elements and an elegant colonnade adorning the pool. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the sun setting behind the many little islands of the Seto Inland Sea and indulge in authentic Greek cuisine. Thanks to the hotel’s mostly foreign-born staﬀ, the language barrier is not a problem for visitors who don’t speak Japanese.

The Hotel Limani & Spa Address: Okayama, Setouchi, Uchimadocho, Ushimado 3900 URL: www.limani.jp/

Information: www.city.setouchi.lg.jp/journey/ (in Japanese) | www.i-setouchi.org/ (in Japanese) | www.okayama-japan.jp/en/

WAttention Singapore |

島根県

VOL.20 | SIGHT-SEEING

Writer’s proﬁle: Sarah Wee – Addicted to travelling and photography. My goal is to visit all 47 prefectures in Japan and immerse myself in all things Japanese.

EXPLORE JAPAN’S PREFECTURE

SHIMANE

Izumo Udon at Santa 山太

Former Taisha Station 旧大社駅

Izumi Taisha 出雲大社

Horikawa Boat Cruise

Hinomisaki Lighthouse 日御碕灯台

Matsue Castle 松江城

Agonoyaki あごの焼き

Wariko Soba 割子そば

Shimane

島根 SHIMANE, WHERE GODS GATHER

Izumo Airport

Matsue Station 松江駅

出雲縁結び空港

Izumo Station

Spend your next vacation in the quaint countryside of Shimane, which oﬀers an equally charming springtime experience minus the crowd!

Izumo City Steeped in mythology, Izumo Taisha (出雲大社) is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, which is also home to the world’s largest shimenawa (しめ縄, sacred straw rope), which represents a barrier between mortals and divine beings . After a modest yet satisfying meal of Izumo Udon at Santa (山太), try its quintessential dessert — zenzai (ぜんざい, Japanese red bean soup with mochi). This means “the gods are here” in local dialect. The nearby Former Taisha Station (旧大社駅) was one of Japan’s grandest train stations. Travel back in time with manual ticket machines and hop onto the retro locomotive that once ferried thousands of pilgrims from around Japan! Head over to Hinomisaki Lighthouse (日御碕灯台) , which has been operating since 1903. Climbing up the spiral staircase with 163 steps was a huge challenge. Brace yourself for the unbelievable strong winds!

Beyond the rugged coastline is the sacred island of Fumishima, accessible only to a Shinto priest. Here, thousands of black-tailed gulls come to breed and lay their eggs.

出雲駅

Matsue City 松江市

Izumo City

Yasugi City

出雲市

Matsue City

雲南市

As one of 12 original castles of Japan, Matsue Castle has survived countless battles. Its scarred exterior is a testament to its history. With adjustable roofs to accommodate the lowlying bridges and a kotatsu (こたつ, heated table) for chilly days, a Horikawa boat cruise around the castle moat marks your visit to the “City of Water” . A great snack to sample is agonoyaki (あごの焼き, grilled flying fish sausage) . Get them in assorted flavours such as seaweed or miso. Take a pleasant walk around the vibrant castle town. Nestled amongst samurai residences is Yakumoan (八雲庵). Here you can enjoy a variation of Izumo soba, known as wariko soba (割子そば) , served in round, stacked bowls called wariko. With lots to explore and eat, it’s time for you to visit this overlooked prefecture too!

安来市

Unnan City

Oku Izumo City 奥出雲市

Fukuoka Airport (Fukuoka) Izumo Airport Airplane 1 hr 5mins, ¥24,000~ (S$287~) *Fare by JAL

Izumo Airport

Izumo Station

Izumo Airport Shuttle Bus 32 mins ¥720 (S$8.63~) Izumo Airport

Matsue Station

Izumo Airport Shuttle Bus 32 mins ¥1030 (S$12.36~) Izumo Station

Matsue Station

JR Yakumo 38 mins ¥580 (S$6.96~)

WA Seh :

Vol.

2017 4:47:30 PM

Dear NY Reso tions, it was fun while it sted ve, 2 jan’18

T h e Re ally Use f ul Japan T ravel Guide

Isn’t it frightening how 2017 is the same number of years away from 1990 as it is 2034…? As we near the holiday season, many Japanese go on shopping sprees to take advantage of the many year-end discounts oﬀered by department stores. On this note, we’ve prepared some essential phrases that will guide you through the festive season shopping sales. Time to drop some yen!

H i r o sh i m a Dia l e ct

Bargain sale バーゲンセール (ba-gen se-ru) Half price 半額 (hangaku) Super cheap 激安 (geki yasu) Outlet store アウトレット (a-u-to retto) Special price 大特価 (daitokka) Discount coupon 割引券 (waribiki ken) Limited edition item 限定商品 (gentei shōhin) For today only 本日限り (honjitsu kagiri) Tax-free shop 免税店 (menzei ten) Cash register レジ (reji) Credit card クレジットカード (kurejitto- ka-do) Information counter 案内所 (an nai jo) May I try this on? 試着してもいいですか? (shichaku shitemo ii desu ka?) ba

MP 03:74:4 710

tei

方言コー広ナ:

BUS STOP

(広島弁, Hiroshima Ben)

島弁

One of the most interesting Japanese dialects is the Hiroshima ben. Native to the Chugoku region, the dialect has been featured in the 1974 movie ‘The Yakuza’ and is sometimes associated with the Japanese maﬁa. However, much of that notoriety no longer exists today and perhaps a small part of that may be thanks to girl group Perfume! Did you know that the lovable idols were born and bred in Hiroshima? This time, we’ve picked up some phrases that Japanese netizens have voted to sound the cutest for your learning pleasure!

English

Standard Japanese

Hiroshima dialect

So / Therefore

だから (dakara)

じゃけえ/じゃけん (jyakee / jyaken)

Very / Extremely

とても / すごく (totemo / sugoku)

ぶち(buchi)

I’m tired / So troublesome

疲れた / だるい / 面倒 (tsukareta / darui / mendō)

たいぎい (tai gii)

Please do this quickly

早くしてください (hayaku shite kudasai)

はよせい (hayosei)

No / Cannot

だめ (da me)

いけん (iken)

I really like you, will you go out with me?

とても好きだから、私と付き合ってくれませんか？ (totemo suki dakara,

ぶち好きじゃけえ…うちと付きおーてくれん？ (buchi suki jya kee… uchi to tsuki

*For girls to boys only.

watashi to tsuki atte kuremasen ka?)

ou te kuren?)

Illustration credit: www.irasutoya.com & www.freepik.com

3-week Japanese Experience KYOTO UNIVERSITY OF FOREIGN STUDIES From 30 Jun to 22 Jul’18*

Intensive Japanese classes

Japanese traditional cultural experiences

¥250,000 - ¥300,000 Shared ﬂat & Private dormitory* Online application will be open between

20 Feb – 21 Mar’18*

Details to be announced by early Feb’ 18 *Subjected to change

Scan QR code for more details

Kyoto University of Foreign Studies (Singapore) 51 Cuppage Road #07-12 TEL: 6338 3080 Email: kufs@world-edu.com.sg for inquiries and applications More details on http://w-square.com/english/information/kjse2018/

WAttention Singapore |

JAPAN

TRAVEL

Beyond

VOL.12 | E ARLY SPRING GUIDE

PERFECT SEASONAL MOMENTS

Presented by

Kyoto Prefecture Okayama Prefecture

Hyogo Prefecture

Hiroshima Prefecture

Western Japan 西日本 Explore well-loved and lesser known parts of Western Japan with JTB. You will get to enjoy the best of both worlds as you indulge your senses in authentic food and cultural experiences. Blueberry Picking

Himeji Castle 姫路城

The elegant white appearance of this landmark earned its nickname “White Heron Castle”. Both a national treasure as well as an UNESCO world heritage site, this majestic castle was one of the few undestroyed by war. Reward yourself with a bird’s eye view of the structure’s maze-like defences when you climb to the top.

Blessed with a mild climate, Okayama is home to many high-quality fruits. Here, you can pick and eat all the fresh, sweet and juicy blueberries to your heart’s content! Enjoy the blissful sensation of sinking your teeth into the plump blueberries that you handpicked.

Tomonoura 鞆の浦

Bask in this beautifully scenic port town in Hiroshima, which has more than 1,000 years of rich history. A prosperous port since ancient times, the architecture of the area has been preserved even after modernisation, making the harbour a picturesque sight. Famous souvenirs include Homei-shu (保命酒), known for its numerous health beneﬁts.

Sagano Bamboo Grove 嵯峨野竹林の道

Located northwest of Kyoto, this must-see bamboo forest is one of the most beautiful groves in Japan. While beholding its natural beauty, take time to listen to soothing rustling caused by wind blowing through the bamboo grove. The Tenryuji Temple (天龍寺) is also one of the main attractions in the area.

Umekoji Park 梅小路公園

Train lovers, get excited! Just directly east of Kyoto Station stands Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum (located within the park), the latest and largest train museum in Japan. You will never run out of things to see in the threestorey exhibit consisting of 50 locomotives and carriages. There is also a large patch of greenery nearby for you to get some fresh air. 16

| WAttention Singapore

Okuno Island

大久野島

©Kyoto Convention Bureau ©JNTO

Get up close and personal with the cute and furry inhabitants of this island! Commonly referred to as Usagishima (うさぎ島, literally Rabbit Island), it is found in the Seto Inland Sea just south of Hiroshima. Bring along some vegetables and get friendly with these lovable creatures.

HOW JAPANESE SAY SAYONARA TO 2017 AND USHER IN THE NEW YEAR 気になる

！

日

本

人

の

rit

過ごし

年末年始

！

の

か

た

イルミネーション

illumination

Bright lights and city sights, these are a few things you will not miss as you stroll down the famously lit streets of Omotesando Hills or bumble around in Odori Park. Top picks to be awed by the sparkle and dazzle include the Caretta Shiodome Ilumination in Tokyo, Kobe Luminarie in Kobe and the Kingdom of Light in Huis Ten Bosch, Nagasaki.

クリスマス

christmas

An estimated 3.6 million Japanese families tuck into Kentucky Fried Chicken for Christmas yearly. This phenomenon began with a viral marketing plan called “kurisumasu ni wa kentakki, (クリスマスにはケンタッキー, Kentucky for Christmas)”, after which their Party Barrel became synonymous with the holiday.

雪まつり

snow festivals

Nothing shouts winter better than a blanket of powdery white snow. Celebrate the holiday season with a visit to see Guiness World Record-holding giant snow sculptures at Asahikawa Snow Festival, or take a romantic walk around Hirosaki Castle, where snow lanterns made by citizens light up the paths.

| WAttention Singapore

Y in

忘年会

n Ya ew

bou nen kai

Literally meaning “a session to forget the year”, these annual year-end parties are usually observed by co-workers and sponsored by a company for their employees. As implied by its name, the gathering is to forget the troubles of the past year before moving into the new year on a clean slate. Started in the 15th century as a party to express thanks, it has evolved to the bōnenkai Japanese hold today, with copious amounts of alcohol!

de sig ne d and illus t r

ate d

by C

The unbeatable combo to pass the new year GOTTA EAT THESE! This soup dish containing rice cakes is the most auspicious thing to eat on New Year’s Day. Dating to the end of the Muromachi period (1336 – 1573), it has many regional variations. In Kanto, zōni is made with a clear soup called sumashi-jiru (すまし汁) whereas in Kansai, the stock uses white miso.

Ozōni お雑煮

Mikan みかん Inseparable from the kotatsu, this musteat fruit of the Japanese winter also serves as decorations around the house. Known for its nutritional beneﬁts, mikan are thought to keep the ﬂu at bay.

年越しそば

toshikoshi soba

The word toshikoshi (年越し) means to jump over from the old year to the new. Enjoyed on the eve of New Year’s, each strand is easily bitten oﬀ and symbolises a clean break from the old year. The long, thin shape is also associated with a long and healthy life, so why not spend this New Year’s Eve eating soba instead?

GOTTA WATCH THESE! 1位紅白歌合戦

NHK Kouhaku

This annual year-end music festival is a competition between two teams — Red is made up of female artistes while white consists of male performers, all of whom are the most successful singing acts in the industry. Emcees Kazunari Ninomiya & Kasumi Arimura

2位笑ってはいけないシリーズ

Waratte wa ikenai Series An absolute comedic must-see, the gameshow places ﬁve regular cast members including the proliﬁc Downtown duo in a 24-hour lockdown, during which they are punished in hilarious ways when they laugh at amusing setups.

Johnny’s Countdown 3位ジャニーズカウントダウン Featuring a star-studded line-up from talent agency Johnny & Associates, this highly entertaining programme showcases legendary groups such as TOKIO and V6 singing and dancing to welcome in the new year. WAttention Singapore |

OSHOUGATSU お正月

Rich in traditions and full of food with symbolic meaning, New Year or Oshōgatsu is the most important holiday period in Japan for families. The lead-up to the very auspicious ﬁrst day of the year is marked by spring cleaning and decorating homes and entrances with ornaments made of pine, bamboo and plum trees.

初日の出

hatsu hi node

Watching the ﬁrst sunrise to grace New Year’s Day became popular after the Meiji period, spreading as a custom of the Emperor’s to ordinary folk. Many believe that the toshikamisama (年神様) arrives alongside the sunrise, blessing all who pray to it with good fortune for the year.

除夜の鐘

joya no kane As night falls on 31 December, some families drink toso (屠蘇 ), a spiced medicinal sake said to prevent sickness. Anticipating the stroke of midnight, many then gather to listen to the sound of the temple bell being struck 108 times, each strike meant to dispel the 108 worldly desires and ring in the new year.

初詣おみくじ

hatsumode omikuji

On ganjitsu (元日, New Year’s Day), families pay their ﬁrst visit to a shrine or temple, known as hatsumode (初詣), to pray for a smooth year ahead. New omamori (お守り, amulets) are bought and old ones returned to the shrine to be burned. Some also buy omikuji (おみくじ, random fortunes written on strips of paper) in hopes of getting a good prediction. 20

| WAttention Singapore

Kagami Mochi

鏡もち

“Mirror rice cakes” are named after round mirrors used in ancient Japan, where gods were believed to reside. They are topped with a daidai orange, which when written with a diﬀerent kanji (代々), refers to a wish of prosperity for many generations.

御節料理

osechi cuisine

Served in an elegant three or four-layer bento box called jūbako (重箱 ), each dish has a symbolic meaning. To name a few, kuromame (黒豆 , black soy beans) represents good health, kazunoko (数の子, herring roe) is eaten as a wish for abundant harvest and fertility while datemaki (伊達巻, sweet omelet with ﬁsh paste or shrimp) is for academia and culture as it resembles a scroll.

福袋

fukubukuro

These sealed “lucky bags” are sold at a set price at shops across the nation, from famous department stores like Isetan or Tobu to smaller chains like Starbucks. The contents are usually valued more than the retail price and many buyers enjoy the process of being surprised by what is inside. One of the most sought after fukubukuro comes from Shibuya 109, known for its collection of trendy fashion brands.

Using reverse marketing tactics, brands are now unveiling key items customers will get when purchasing fukubukuro to drive sales!

お年玉

Otoshidama

ネタバレ

netabare

Similar to the Chinese custom of handing out red packets during Chinese New Year, Japanese adults give money to children in their family. Usually given by grandparents, parents as well as uncles and aunts, the amount varies depending on the child’s age, with older ones receiving up to 30,000 yen (around S$360).

WAttention Singapore |

Alcoholic ADVENTURES in Japan

Go on a journey to seek quality sake or

down draft beer inJapan. Bottoms up!

Hokkaido

The nation’s coldest region is also home to a variety of alcoholic beverages with ﬂavours reﬂecting its climate, soil and water. The birthplace of beer in Japan, it is also sometimes called the Hometown of Japanese Whisky because of the famous Yoichi Distillery. Tokachi wine from this prefecture is highly regarded as well.

Niigata Receiving over 30 feet of snow each year, this prefecture is home to about 90 sake breweries, making it one of Japan’s leading sake production areas. As the snow melts, the clear run-oﬀ water creates pristine rice paddies where sake rice is cultivated. The pure water is also used as a key component in the brewing process.

Kyoto Whisky lovers from all around the world would have heard of Suntory’s Yamazaki distillery. Located in southwestern Kyoto at the foot of Mt. Tennozan, the natural waters used for whisky-making have been selected by the Ministry of Environment as one of Japan’s one hundred best natural mineral waters.

Yamanashi Introduced at the end of the 19 th century, winemaking has spread and grown to the point where around 80 wineries in this prefecture produce roughly 30% of Japanese-made wine. Made from the Koshu white wine grape grown primarily in the area, many of these wines have even won international wine competitions.

Wakayama

Kagoshima

The top producer of ume (梅 , Japanese plum), this prefecture grows roughly 67,000 tons of the fruit each year. Of the many varieties produced here, the Nanko ume is the most popular because of its thin skin, small seed and tender ﬂesh. Umeshu is favoured by many for its refreshing drinkability due to its citric bite.

Most natives of this prefecture love imojochu ( 芋焼酎), a type of shochu (焼酎, a type of distilled liquor) made using the famed sweet potato. With more than 100 shochu distilleries, this destination is also a great place to purchase specialised earthenware bottles and cups to store the beverage.

| WAttention Singapore

Tokyo 45.2

The most expensive bottle of Japanese SAKE was sold in Japan at $2,600 in early 2017.

4 2.3 litre s

In 2015, the average individual consumed 42.3 litres of beer in Japan.

0 2, 6

Osaka 32.4 Kyoto 30.0

*Based on date released by gurunavi in 2016.

% of men and

of women are most likely

to enjoy an alcoholic

drink alone.

of the wine consumed in Japan is imported.

5: 5 6: 4

(Source: www.wineandgourmetjapan.com/market-trends-outlook)

Japan’s ﬁrst and oldest distillery opened in

1.3

million

$96,500 - the price tag on one of the most expensive bottles of KARUIZAWA WHISKY on the market. In April, an elusive bottle of their 1960 whisky sold at $1.3 million at an online auction. (Source: PR Times Japan) *All prices shown are in SGD.

litre / person

Around 20% of 10,000 Japanese polled online have an alcoholic drink almost every day.

Kagoshima Out of 47 prefectures, Kagoshima consumes the most shochu annually.

litre / person

Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto are the ranked 1st, 2nd and 3rd in beer consumption respectively.

*Based on date released by gurunavi in 2016.

Around

litre / person

is the recommended ratio between shochu and water.

45.2% of 1,000 men polled ﬁnd that women leave a deeper impression when they order and drink cocktails.

5,460,000

(Source: https://cancam.jp/ archives/151414/3)

beer and quasi-beer were produced in 2015*.

*Based on latest released data from the Japan Times.

WAttention Singapore |

r e e B

O D I A K K HO

Known by many as a paradise for beer lovers, Sapporo City is where full-scale beer brewing began in Japan; The Hokkaido Kaitakushi Beer Brewery managed under the government was established in 1876. Today, beer in Japan is produced mostly by four well-known makers: Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo and Suntory, with pilsner-style lagers being the most commonly made beer style.

Asahi Beer Factory

E xperience

A leading beer brewery holding the largest domestic market share, they were ﬁrst founded in Osaka as the Osaka Beer Company (大阪麦酒会社 ). Their top-selling Asahi Super Dry was introduced in 1987 and has since become highly successful and acclaimed in terms of sales and taste. At their Hokkaido factory, you can join a free tour to view the raw material exhibits, fermentation tanks and the dynamic packaging line. The generous brewery also allows participants to taste-test up to three glasses of beer within 20 minutes at the end of the tour, so prepare to drink up! Subway Sapporo Station to Shiroishi Station Train: 27 mins, ¥250 Bus: 40 mins, ¥210 10 min walk from Shiroishi Station 〒 003 - 0022, Nangōdōri 4-chōme minami 1-1 Shiroishi ku, Sapporo shī, Hokkaidō, Japan

asahibeer.co.jp/brewery/language/english/

Travel

F ood

Sapporo Hit sujigaoka Observation Hill さっぽろ羊ヶ丘展望台

C olumn:

J i Be e r

アサヒビール園

Asahi Beer Garden 羊々亭ジンギスカン Gen ghis Khan Restaurant

Overlooking downtown Sapporo, this place was originally a national research centre for wool with more than 2,000 sheep raised here. Another notable photo spot in the area is a statue of Dr. William Smith Clark, the ﬁrst vice-president of the Sapporo Agricultural College, now Hokkaido University, known for his words “Boys, be ambitious!”

Located adjacent to the Asahi Beer Hokkaido Brewery, there are four restaurants in this area serving a variety of local specialties such as Genghis Khan barbeque (grilled mutton and vegetables). Fresh Asahi Super Dry is oﬀered at all eateries, so you can indulge in a great meal paired with great beer.

20 min car ride from Asahi Beer Factory

5 min walk from Asahi Beer Factory

www.hitsujigaoka.jp/en/ 24

| WAttention Singapore

asahibeer.co.jp/brewery/language/english/

©JiBiru

Microbrewing became legalised in Japan in 1994, sparking waves of ji-biru (地ビール, local/regional beer). In recent years, the term has been overtaken by “craft beer”, as beers become more accessible to consumers outside its production region. Some of the best craft beer breweries include Yo-Ho Brewing in Nagano and Baird Brewing Company in Shizuoka.

地ビール

HAKKAISAN YUKIMURO Founded in 1922, Hakkaisan Brewery only uses spring water from Mt. Hakkai and carefully selected sake rice. The craftsman here believe that good sake has a full body with a smooth ﬁnish which does not interfere with the taste of food. Harnessing the power of the heavy snow in the area, they have also created a special yukimuro (雪室, snow storehouse) used to chill and age sake to get a richer umami ﬂavour.

This well-critiqued sake has a premium 50% milling which results in an elegant aroma and gently rounded texture. The clean body has bold rice notes that has a crisp aftertaste and is best served chilled! Sapporo Station to Nangonanachome Station Train: 27 mins, ¥250 Bus: 40 mins, ¥210 〒 003 - 0022, Nangōdōri 4-chōme minami 1-1 Shiroishi ku, Sapporo shī, Hokkaidō, Japan

asahibeer.co.jp/brewery/language/english/

e k a S

Home to one of the best rice brands in the country – Koshihikari (コシヒカリ), this prefecture found in the middle of Honshu also makes some of the nation’s top of the line sake. Other factors that boost the sake quality is the smooth, mountain waters and the undying dedication from the region’s master brewers.

The Water of Raiden-sama 雷電様の水

A T A G I NI

Uonuma no sato soba-ya Nagamori

魚沼の里そば屋長森

A famous water from the Niigata area, it spouts from the foot of Mt. Hakkai which leads to the Echigo Mountain Range. Producing 400 tons of water a day, it is also source of clean drinking water for the local community. Legend has it that after a festival honouring the Thunder God was held, deadly lightning strikes to the grounds disappeared.

Within the Hakkaisan Brewery compounds, visitors can take their pick from several food options to sate their hunger. This traditional restaurant serves Edo-style buckwheat noodles with two types of homemade broth. The noodles are made fresh in-house; from grinding the ﬂour to cutting each strand carefully before boiling to achieve the ideal texture and ﬂavour.

15 min car ride from Hakkaisan Yukimuro

2 min walk, next to Hakkaisan Yukimuro

Travel

uonuma-no-sato.jp

F ood

C olumn:

y World ’s onl st res s-free sake Hokuset su Daigin jo YK 35 Shin

Branded Yamada Nishiki rice from Hyogo Prefecture is milled to 35% and fermented at low temperature over a prolonged period. It is then put through a high-speed centrifuge to produce a daiginjo (大吟醸 ) with no deterioration or oxidation like normal sakes, resulting in a fragrant and mellower body.

35 信北雪大吟醸 YK WAttention Singapore |

y in k s i Wh

a k a s O , O T O Y K E xperience

Production of whisky dates to the 1870s in Japan, but did not kick oﬀ commercially until the early 20th century. In 1899, Shinjiro Torii founded Torii Shoten (known today as the liquor conglomerate Suntory), to take on the increasing domestic demand for Western-style liquors. Inspired by traditional Scottish whisky, he chose a spot on the periphery of Kyoto to open Yamazaki Distillery.

Yamaz aki Distillery

Envisioning a whole new Japanese approach to creating whisky, Torii deliberately selected an area where the Katsura, Uji and Kizu rivers converge. The humid climate combined with the availability of one of Japan’s softest waters and surrounding temperature was ideal for cask aging, or whisky maturation. Today, the award-winning Yamazaki single malt’s multi-layered taste is enjoyed by many worldwide. For the curious, you can reserve a tour of both the distillery and the Yamazaki Whisky Museum found next to it. Visitors can see a step-by-step explanation of the whisky distillation process as well as a whisky library and gift shop. Tours of the distillery typically take 80 minutes and end with a glorious tasting session. 10 min walk from Yamazaki Station on JR Kyoto Line Train: 30 min from Osaka Station, ¥460 5-2-1 Yamazaki, Shimamoto-cho Mishima-gun, Osaka

Travel

Arashiyama

F ood

嵐山

Suntory Whisk y House サントリーウィスキーハウス

In the north-western part of Kyoto City lies this area with a myriad of scenic spots not to be missed throughout the year. The tourist site is also home to notable shrines and temples including Tenryuji Temple as well as famous bamboo groves. Hop on board the Hozugawa River Boat Ride and enjoy the cool breeze as you cruise down the breathtaking gorge.

Popular among locals, three dining concepts are tucked away in the back building of Grand Front Osaka. The www.w (フォーダブリュー) is a warm space with a comprehensive food menu with satisfying small plates and filling mains, the restaurants also offers tasting sets for whisky — the recommended World Whisky Tour showcases five types of the renowned liquor from Ireland, Scotland, Canada, America and Japan.

15 min train ride from Kyoto Station (JR Sagano Line)

8 min walk from Umeda Station (Osaka)

www.jnto.go.jp/eng/spot/histtown/arashi-yama.html 26

| WAttention Singapore

www.suntory.co.jp/whisky/whiskyhouse/ (Japanese)

asahibeer.co.jp/brewery/language/english/

C olumn:

Most expen sive bot tle of Suntory whisk y sold

A ﬁrst edition of Suntory’s Yamazaki 50-Year-Old Single Malt 2005 Release was sold in 2016 at a record-breaking price of US$129,186 at an auction in Hong Kong. There are only 50 bottles of this limited-edition bottle in the universe, making it even more remarkable and desirable amongst whisky lovers from all walks of life.

WinNeAiSn HI YA M A

Tomi no oka Winery

登美の丘ワイナリー

Owned by Suntory Wine International Ltd, this 106-yearold winery produces wines from both Japanese and European grape varieties. Visitors can tour the vast vineyards and experience the wine-making and bottling process too. Grab a bottle (or two) of their Koshu wines as souvenir, as their citrus notes are known to pair well with seafood dishes such as sashimi and sushi. 〒400-0103, Onuta, Kai, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan www.suntory.co.jp/factory/tominooka/

u h s e Um AM A in

WA K A Y

チョーヤ梅酒

CHOYA

Well-loved by ladies around the world, this Japanese liqueur made from the ume fruit is the perfect balance of tangy ume extract and distilled spirits. As the leading producer of Umeshu, CHOYA uses only domestically produced Nanko-ume from Wakayama. The ﬂeshy fruits with small seeds are aged for at least a year before they are steeped in alcohol and sugar.

in u h c S ho I M A

H S O G A K

Kame t subo shōchū Murao 鹿児島産焼酎「村尾」 Kagoshima shochu is divided into three categories based on their key ingredients — sweet potato, brown cane sugar and others (including barley, buckwheat and Japanese chestnuts etc). The Murao Brewery set up in the Meiji 35th year (1898) is now headed by its third generation owner. Using only branded, top-grade sweet potatoes and black koji in the distilling process, the resulting liquor has a soft, mellow sweetness which leaves a light aftertaste.

Tax-free alcohol for all foreign tourist s!

A new tax-free law implemented in October 2017 is making the purchase of alcohol from Japan an even better experience for foreign visitors. Before then, tax rebates of 8% on all consumables between 5,000 yen to 500,000 yen could be refunded. Now, tourists can enjoy a special alcohol rebate too! The alcohol purchased is eligible for additional tax refund if: The production house (e.g. sake breweries, beer factories, whisky distilleries etc) is registered with the government under the taxfree alcohol program. *Amount of additional tax refund depends on the type of alcohol purchased.

The alcohol products are directly manufactured by them and not imported from other manufacturers (both domestic or foreign) . WAttention Singapore |

From stunning night views to cosy diners, here’s where you can say cheers to 2018 with a glass of Japanese alcohol in hand! For the average Singaporean, the end of the year comes by so quickly that it barely feels like we accomplished much. Before we know it, we are planning gatherings with college friends or organizing a home hotpot party with loved ones. In Japan however, companies have an annual ritual to go through — the bōnenkai (忘年会). Literally translated to “forget the year party”, this customary celebration began in the 15th century as an event to give thanks, but has evolved since then. In this time and age, the drinking party is held among groups of coworkers or friends, during which the boss-employee relationship is sometimes ignored. Usually featuring large amounts of Japanese alcohol, people are more willing to let their hair down, and the purpose of forgetting the woes of the past year can be accomplished. This year end, our editorial team has curated a series of charming restaurants where you can not only eat your ﬁll of scrumptious food, but also wash it all down with a generous glass of Japanese liquor. From the light and refreshing umeshu to fragrant sake and thirstquenching beers, the time has come to create your own version of bōnenkai with your friends or family!

忘年会、年越し、新年会の集まりは、どこで？何を飲んで、何を食べているのか調べました。

CEL EBRAT IONS With Japanese alcohol

日本とシンガポールの年末の過ごしかたを調査。

Year-end

Himonoya Savour splendid sake ﬂavours alongside sun-dried ﬁsh

This year end, sip on a range of exclusive sake brought in from Japan at this authentic izakaya-style restaurant. With more than 50 varieties to choose from, you will be sure to find something that everyone enjoys. Do pair them with the store’s specialty himono (干物) — each fish is carefully sun-dried so that the flavours are concentrated. When grilled, the skin becomes crisp while the meat remains tender and moist. Some of their

Savoury himono and thick cuts of sashimi go best with their selection of specialty sake ﬂown in from Japan.

promotion Gokai Course

$100 ➡ $90nett/pax

*Include 3hr free flow drinks (L.O. 30mins before course end)

*Reservation required one day in advance *Valid till 31 Dec’17

Food & alcohol

must-try options include Shima Hokke,

Ryoshi Course ....................................................................$75nett (add $10 to change to Crab Hotpot)

Bansuke Saba and Kinmedai. Aside

King Crab Hot Pot (4 pax) .......................................................................$59.90

from himono, the premium sashimi such as tuna and sea urchin are all imported directly from Japan, so you are guaranteed the freshest taste always. Big groups can be accommodated in their

*Include 3hr free flow drinks (L.O. 30mins before course end)

Assorted sashimi (5kinds) ......................................... from $29.80 ❶ Hiroki Tokubetsujunmai( 1.8L) ............................................ $199.90

❷ Isojiman Junmaidaiginjo (720ml) ............................ $169.90

❸ Aramasa No.6 r-type (740ml) .....................................$89.90

❹ Dassai50 (720ml) .............................................................$69.90

private rooms as well, making it the ideal setting for a year-end gathering! Robertson Walk #02-14, 11 Unity Street | 6235-9110 Daily 6pm – 12am singaporehimonoya.com singaporehimonoya

WAttention Singapore |

Be spoiled for choice with their selection of savoury side dishes that go great with smooth sake.

Tomi Sushi

Assorted Sashimi (6 kinds)

promotion

❶Hakkaisan (Snow Aged for 3 years) $130 ➡ $110

❷Koshinokanbai (White Label) $75 ➡ $65

❸Iichiko Mugi Shochu (Barley)

Perfect pairing of splendid sushi, sake and shochu

$64 ➡ $55

❹Satsuma Shimabijin Imo Shochu (Sweet Potato)

$78 ➡ $65 *Valid till 31 Dec’17

Japanese liquor fans rejoice! This year end, the well-loved sushi joint will be oﬀering special deals on delicious Japanese sake and shochu. Diners can delight in assorted sashimi platters, tempting tempura squid and sushi made using the ﬁnest

Food & alcohol Assorted Sashimi (6 kinds) .......................... from $26 Tempura Squid ...........................................................$15 ❺ Refined Sake M Setchūchozō Hiire ............. $68 (limited to 30 bottles)

Niigata Koshihikari rice known for its sweet, nutty taste. M Setchūchozō Hiire, one of Niigata’s most distinctive sakes, will also be available exclusively at all branches of this sushi-ya for sake connoisseurs to enjoy. Noted for its dry, crisp ﬂavour, this elusive sake was born out of a collaboration with Tateyuki Matsuoka, a Japanese lawyer who authored a novel featuring the sake as the key factor which revived a declining town. There are only 30 bottles available in Singapore, so hurry down to a Tomi Sushi today!

Millenia Walk #02-12/13, 9 Raﬄes Boulevard 6238-1123 11.30am-3pm (L.O. 2.30pm), 5.30pm-10pm (L.O. 9.30pm)

Katong V #02-14/15/16, 30 East Coast Road 6348-7897 11.30am-3pm (L.O. 2.30pm), 5.30pm-10pm (L.O. 9.30pm)

Novena Square (Velocity) #02-76/77, 238 Thomson Road 6255-2355 11.30am-10pm (L.O. 9.30pm)

Tomisushi Echigotei Cuppage Terrace 35 Cuppage Road 6333-4633 3pm-11.30pm (L.O. 11.15pm)

www.tomisushi.asia 30

Some of the products are subject to change or may not be available due to seasonal or stock availability. All prices are subject to service charge & government tax.

| WAttention Singapore

JF Kanda

Wadat sumi

Be charmed by the freshest catch and flavourful sake Importing only the freshest seasonal fish directly from different prefectures in Japan, customers can be sure that they are eating only the best! Aside from outstanding omakase courses and mouthwatering kaisen tōban-yaki (海鮮陶板焼き, grilled seafood on ceramic plate), their extensive drinks menu also features sake, umeshi and shochu which pair well with seafood.

Donpachi Sake BAR A hidden gem offering the ﬁnest sake

Food & alcohol Omakase Chef Course (8 courses) ......... $120 50 Tras Street | 6221-6264 Mon-Sat 12pm – 2:30pm, 6pm – 11pm Closed Sun & PH kanda-wadatsumi.sg/en Kanda Wadatsumi Japanese Dining

This bar can be found tucked away in one of Singapore’s best places to go for authentic Japanese cuisine. The homely venue started as the owner wanted more people to know about kanzake (燗酒, warmed sake) and junmaishu (純米酒, pure rice sake). Today, you can order a myriad of tasty side dishes and try over 120 sake labels, including exclusive ones which cannot be found outside of Japan.

Omakase Sushi Course ............................ $88

Food & alcohol

Sapporo Draft ....................................$10/glass

Nihonshu (180ml) from ..............................$18

Hyakunen Umeshu .........................$12/glass

Smoked Chicken and Coriander Salad .....$10

House Sake (Kuroushi Jyunmai) ........ $24/glass

Iwate Beef Tataki ........................................... $20

Aburiya Boat Quay Premium melt-inyour-mouth wagyu for the perfect yakiniku night out

Enjoy the scenic riverside view as you dig into delicious yakiniku at pocket-friendly prices. Besides importing quality wagyu from farms across Japan, this Japanese beef expert also prides themselves in using white charcoal when grilling the meat, a traditional method which imparts a special charred ﬂavour to the tender slices of beef.

Wagyu Iz akaya

promotion Chikusen Singapore Original Blend (produced by Tanji Brewery)

➡ $22 1. 8L $250 ➡ $200 180ml $27

*Valid till 15 February 2018

Cuppage Plaza #B1-23 5 Koek Road | 9667-3659 Mon-Sat 8pm – 4am, Closed on Sun DonpachiSakeBAR honke_donpachi

NIKUDUKI

Bite-size wagyu goodness at pocketfriendly prices! Food & alcohol

promotion

❶ Add $30 for 2 .5 hours free flow drinks (wine, beer and shochu)

❷ Enjoy 5% off

The Container’s A La Carte menu

*❶&❷Valid with any order of course menu.

Get a FREE Champagne voucher

Found along the brightly lit nightscape of the Singapore River, this al fresco izakaya is home to magniﬁcent views and ﬁnger-licking good wagyu bar bites. Opened by the brilliant minds behind highly acclaimed wagyu specialist YAKINIQUEST, diners can look forward to dishes such as the umamirich wagyu sushi, aromatic roast beef, beef tongue with leek and many more at reasonable prices.

Special party set menu Set A (8 course) ................................$40nett/pax Set B (10 course) ..............................$50nett/pax 2 Hour Free Flow Drinks ........$30nett/pax *Includes draft beer, oolong cocktail, highball, red/ white wine & soft drinks. *Reservations required one day in advance (4 pax minimum).*Valid till January 2018

48 Boat Quay | 6223-4129 ¦ Mon-Fri 6pm – 11pm, Sat, & PH 5pm – 10pm Close on Sun WagyuIzakayaNikuduki

Roast Beef $16

Bite-size Grilled Miyazaki Wagyu $18 Dashimaki Tamago $10

Wagyu sushi $32

Bang Bang Chicken with Miso Sauce $7 Dice-Cut Beef Tongue with leek $16

for min 6 pax reservation. *Min spending of $60/pax

Food & alcohol Course 1 (2 pax) ...................... $126 (includes salad, Kiritoshi Tokumori wagyu, soup, kimchi or spicy bean sprouts, earthen pot rice)

Course 2 (3 pax) ................$116.50 (includes Tokusen Kazoku Wagyu, soup, Sangou earthen pot rice)

78 Boat Quay | 6532-0365 ¦ Sun-Thu 6pm-11pm, Fri Sat & Eve of PH 6pm-11:30pm www.aburiya.com.sg/boat-quay

SU JU

Toast to good times with wholesome fare and fantastic sake Ring in the new year with a homely dinner at this authentic Japanese diner, where you can experience traditional and exquisite Japanese fare. Renowned for their small batches of pearly rice cooked in a handmade copper pot, miso soup and pickles, they are loved by both Japanese and locals for their heartwarming taste. Perfect for all occasions, the dishes go well with the excellent selection of Japanese sake available at the restaurant. Toast to the simple yet special things in life with the Saku no Hana Junmai Karakuchi, which has a distinct, deep ﬂavour.

promotion Get a

Food & alcohol SUJU Plate Set .................................................$28 Tori Momo Kurozu Itame ...........................$26 Yasai Miso .........................................................$18 Home Made Tofu...........................................$15 Saku no Hana Junmai Karakuchi .....................................................$23/glass $55/pot Saku no Hana....................................$138/bottle

$30 voucher

with every $100 spent.

*Only valid for payment by American Express *Valid till 31 Mar’18

Mandarin Gallery #04-05, 333A Orchard Road | 6737-7764 Daily 11.30am-10.30pm (L.O. 10pm) Suju-masayuki.com/sg

Hakata Torikin

A celebratory hotpot you will never forget!

Yakiniku Ou

For those who love sharing a huge pot of hearty soup with your loved ones, this is the place to go. Their popular Kagoshima beef Motsunabe (もつ鍋) stew is a deﬁnite must-try. Come with a group of six friends to enjoy a free bottle of Japanese sake on the house!

Say cheers to ice-cold highballs and grilled meat This popular yakiniku branch needs no introduction! One of the most aﬀordable Japanese yakiniku places in Singapore, the Cuppage outlet is known for serving up chicken and pork among other yummy dishes. Sit back and bask in the authentic izakaya setting while enjoying a glass of Nikka Whiskey highball with your meal.

Food & alcohol Yakiniku Platter (250g) ............................from $36 Charcoal Grilled TANETORI (Miyasaki Style) ..........$19.80 Grilled Chicken/Pork Skewers ....... from$2 /stick Assorted Skewers.....$12 (5 kinds) / $19 (8 kinds) Nikka Whiskey High Ball..........................$9.80 32

| WAttention Singapore

Cuppage Plaza #01-07/12,13 5 Koek Road | 6733-1248 Mon-Sat 6pm-5am (L.O. 4.15am) Sun & PH 5pm-11pm (L.O. 10.15pm) Yakiniku OH

promotion

Hakata Motsunabe Course (5 course) $ 70

➡ $58

Torikin Collagen Motsunabe Course (8 course) $90

➡ $78

*Min 2 pax required for reservation.

Enjoy a

Free bottle of wine OR Japanese sake! *Valid for reservations for 6 pax and above *Valid till end of Jan’18.

#01-14/16 Crown Centre, 557 Bukit Timah Road 6465-5908 / 9186-8473 (for reservations only) Mon-Fri 5pm-11pm Sun & PH 12pm-3pm, 5pm-11pm @torikinsg

Signature Mizutaki Nabe

Mea

NE W!

t us

Clem

enti

r o f y a Make w

! i j h O u k i n i Yak Eat to yo ur heart’s content!

A new concept from the notoriously affordable Yakiniku Oh, newly opened Yakiniku

Ohji offers a bottomless buffet menu for all your money’s worth. With a name that translates as “The Prince of Yakiniku”, this place is perfect for those with huge appetites! Feast on a variety of meats like beef, chicken, pork and more – all under $50! Diners get to grill their food over charcoal for a rich, smoky flavour. At zero service charge, there is no better place to have Japanese style BBQ in the heartlands!

All You Can Eat

Adult: $19.80

Item Buffet

Child: $15.80

(Chicken, Pork, Sides)

Adult: $29.80

Item Buffet (AUS/US Beef, Chicken, Pork, Sides)

Item Buffet

和牛

(Japanese Wagyu, Chicken, Pork, Sides)

Child: $19.80 Adult: $42.80 Child: $22.80

* Charcoal charged separately * Child prices valid for ages 4 to 10

Telok Ayer 6336-3366 122 Telok Ayer St. Mon-Fri 11am-3pm (L.O. 2.30pm) 5pm11pm (L.O. 10.15pm) Sat 5pm-11pm (L.O. 10.15pm) Closed on Sun & PH

Tanjong Pagar 6444-2488 Blk 1 Tanjong Pagar Plaza #01-36 Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm (L.O. 2.15pm), 5pm-11pm (L.O. 10.15pm), Sun & PH 5pm10.30pm (L.O. 10.15pm), Closed on Sat

Yakiniku Ohji 6258-2849 321 Clementi Ave. 3 #01-01 Daily 12pm-11pm (L.O. 10.15pm)

Cuppage 6733-1248 Cuppage Plaza #01-07/12,13 Mon-Sat 6pm-5am (L.O. 4.15am), Sun & PH 5pm-11pm (L.O. 10.15pm)

Numaz u uogashiz ushi Must-try sushi made with Numazu’s freshest catch Pay less for more at this affordable joint that gets the freshest seafood air-flown directly from Numazu Port. Succulent oysters grilled on a ceramic pan will also be available during the holiday season! Wind down in the evening with a comforting hotpot filled to the brim with fresh oysters, accompanied by a drink from the bar menu. 6444-0868 ¦ Daily 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm

Menu Grilled Oysters with Mayonnaise on Ceramic Pan ........................................ $9.80 Oyster Hot Pot (2 servings) ............... $28 Oyster Hot Pot (4 servings) ............... $48

Shabu Shabu G yu Jin Pamper yourself with an abundance of A-grade wagyu This shabu-shabu speciality restaurant caters to diners’ every need and offers a top grade Japanese black wagyu buffet with five soup bases to pick from. Those with a preference for sweet flavours can have their meat served sukiyaki-style instead. Lunch crowds can also look forward to filling yet affordable set meals!

6538-1820 ¦ Daily 11am – 3pm, 4pm – 10pm (L.O. for AUS & JPN beef Japanese A5 Wagyu Shabu Shabu/ Sukiyaki Dinner Buffet ....................$72.90 8.30pm, L.O. for US beef 8.50pm)

itadakimasu has turned one! Enjoy seasonal menus and attractive promotions during our anniversary celebration and festive period!

YAYOI Comfort food for the soul with seasonal ﬂavours!

Bringing you the best in Japanese omotenashi, diners can wolf down nutritious fare of teishoku (定食 , set meals) with Kinmemai rice and appetizing sides. Discover the sinful ﬂavours of fried oysters, a seasonal item bursting with umami juices on the inside. Dipped in creamy tartar sauce, this is the ultimate combination! 6694-8809 Daily 11am – 10pm, (L.O.9.30pm) yayoi.sg YAYOI SINGAPORE

Menu Kaki Fry Teishoku ............................. $19.90 Ala Carte Kaki Fry (2pc) .....................................$7.90 Kaki Fry (4pc) .................................. $15.90

Tok yo Yakiniku Heijoen

Answer to the irresistible call of superb Japanese A 5 Wagyu Renowned in the local yakiniku scene, this established restaurant is where you can get casual meals and luxurious sets such as the droolworthy Japanese Wagyu Aburi Don. Diners who are craving for more can try the 90 minutes premium course buﬀet in which an extensive list of 56 items are served! 6538-2981 ¦ Daily 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm(L.O. 9.30pm) 34

| WAttention Singapore

Menu Japanese Wagyu Aburi Don (lunch) .................................................................$27.90 All-You-Can-Eat Wagyu Premium Lunch Buffet (50 min) ..........................................................$49.90 All-You-Can-Eat Wagyu Premium Dinner Buffet (90 min) .........................................................$59.90

Ramen Keisuke Tori Kin g

Regain your youth

with collagen-infused chicken ramen!

C ome e t a r b e l e C wit h Us

“Thank you for your continuous support for the past year! Please continue

to visit us for many years to come! Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu”

Saboten

Bite into droolworthy cheesy cutlets this season! With 50 years of tonkatsu making to its name, the skilful chefs dish out pieces of cutlets with crunchy exterior and flavourful, juicy meat on the inside. Unique to this season, diners can tuck into the limited “Shaved Padano Cheese Truffle Katsu” set meals, which combines chunky tonkatsu with cheese and truffle! 6904-4032 ¦ Mon-Fri 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm Sat, Sun & PH 11am – 10pm saboten.sg

This popular, snug restaurant serves up their classic ramen with thick broth topped with a protein-laden chicken thigh. Made from chicken dashi and Hidaka konbu, the dipping sauce for tsukemen is extremely addictive. Alternatively, the mildly ﬂavoured Tori King Ramen has a clear soup base with yuzu for a refreshing taste!

Shaved Padano Cheese Truffle Katsu Supreme Gozen ........................... $26

promotion Dinner only

20% discount for bar menu (excluding alcoholic drinks) *11-24 Dec’17

Second bottle of Kirin beer at

50% discount *1 Dec’17-14 Jan’18

Tori King Ramen (Clear soup) .................................. $11 Tori King Ramen .....................................$16.90 (Rich soup with all toppings)

6604-6861 ¦ Mon-Fri 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm Sat, Sun & PH 11am – 10pm keisuke.sg/tori-king-tanjong-pagar

Nadai Fujisoba NI HACHI Buckle under the goodness of authentic handmade soba! Fujisoba has introduced a new “Mount Fuji Icy Hot Pot”. Indulge in fresh seafood and premium dashi stock which is served in the shape of Mount Fuji with a cute snowman. The premium dashi stock will slowly melt into the chicken soup base and turn into UMAMI soup. Best way to enjoy the UMAMI soup is to slurp it with fresh soba!

6443-8827 ¦ Mon-Fri 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm Sat, Sun & PH 11am fujisoba Singapore – 10pm

Menu Mount Fuji Icy Hot Pot ................$28 /pax Party Set ...................................$49.80 /pax *Only available during weekends & dinner on weekdays *Minimum 2 pax required *Reservation required for Party Set.

superb concept s for days of the week itadakimasu by PARCO ●100 Tras St. Level 3 100 AM Shopping Mall (5 min from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station)

●Daily 11am – 10pm ●www.parcoitadakimasu.com itadakimasubyparco itadakimasubyparco WAttention Singapore |

Bringing the best of Japan to around the world

Los Angeles

Tokyo

2011.05 launched

2012.03 launched

Singapore 2010.03 launched

Sydney

Paris

2013.07 launched

2015.11 launched

2017.05 launched

Malaysia Indonesia

2011.03 launched

Mexico

2014.08 launched

Thailand Hong Kong

2013.02 launched

2014.06 launched

Taiwan

What is WAttention? WAttention is a name created by combining “ 和 ” (WA) - meaning all things Japanese - with “attention”, referring to our mission to bring attention to the best of Japan. “Wa” also bears the connotation of “linking”, which is what WAttention aims to do as a bridge linking Japan and the world. We are the largest-circulating free magazine to introduce Japan’s unique culture as it is and tourism sights as they are to readers all over the world, in either English or the local language.

2012.10 launched

Check out our new website at

www.wattention.com

Culture & Entertainment

Like us on Singapore

Tokyo

Thailand

Los Angeles

WAttention Singapore

Food

Shopping

Travel

WAttention WAttention Thailand WAttention Los Angeles

Feature

Campaign

EVENT & INFORMATION | JAN & FEB 2018

FIND OUT WHAT'S HAPPENING IN JAPAN & SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE 16 Nov–15 Apr'18 Anime X Stamps Enjoy learning anime history through viewing original production artworks (including Naruto and My Neighbour Totoro) and stamps with Fiﬁ the museum mascot! Get your hands on limited edition collectibles as the Singapore Philatelic Museum celebrates 100 years of anime with this unique exhibition. Singapore Philatelic Museum spm.org.sg/exhibitions/data/anime-x-stamps/

JP: 24-25 Mar'18 - AnimeJapan 2018

Happening annually at Tokyo Big Sight, this is the biggest anime event in the world! Over 200 exhibitors are present each year, including production companies of ever-popular Japanese anime. Check out new releases, bring home anime goods and tune in to exciting live performances and talks with noted seiyū. There is even a collaborative food park serving specially curated dishes and many visitors turn up in cosplay of their favourite characters. Join them as they celebrate their 5th anniversary this year! Tokyo Big Sight anime-japan.jp/en

20 Jan'18 ONE OK ROCK AMBITIONS ASIA TOUR 2018 Live in Singapore Here to liven up the crowd in Singapore, the rock band consisting of Taka, Toru, Ryota and Tomoya will be playing hit songs from their wildly popular “AMBITIONS” album, their second all English language release. Scream your lungs out over their charismatic stage presence! Singapore Indoor Stadium $98, $118, $138, $168, $228 sportshub.com.sg/sportshubtix/Pages/ OOR-2018.aspx

JAPAN 20 Jan'18 Sweets Marathon in Tokyo 2018 Held all over Japan, this unique concept oﬀers you a “sweet” reward for completing a running race of your choosing, highly popular with ladies and new runners. At each hydration point, runners will get to sample over 200 types of sweets and desserts! Be sure to purchase your favourite sweets at the end of the race route, and share the joy with family and friends! Tokyo Symbol Promenade Park sweets-marathon.jp/entry/tokyo/

10-11 Mar'18 Niigata Sake no Jin Attended by an estimated 85 sake producers from across Niigata Prefecture, this annual sake fair features food stalls and stage events such as a tasting challenge and dance performances. Attendees who pay a small fee get a sake cup which can be used for an all-you-can-drink session of 500 types of superb sake. Toki Messe sakenojin.jp/english/index.php

WAttention Singapore |

Vol.4

Wanko soba : culture through its

Discover Iwate’s

bottomless noodles

made it! To Morioka, that is, a city in Iwate Prefecture about three hours north of Tokyo via bullet train. The main reason I’d come to Iwate was to sample its local specialty, wanko soba, a distinctive way of serving buckwheat noodles. You sit in front of an empty bowl while a server stands behind you, brandishing a tray laden with tiny bowls, each containing a mouthful of soba. As soon as she tips the contents of one into your bowl, your job is to slurp it down so that she can immediately top up your bowl with another mouthful as she chants out cries of encouragement. This all-you-can eat style is what wanko soba is all about. Wanko, by the way, means “bowl” in the local dialect. And so here I was, ready to take on the challenge at one of Morioka’s most prestigious wanko soba establishments. In front of me was a selection of condiments to keep things interesting: tuna sashimi, nameko mushrooms with grated daikon radish, chicken soboro, spicy pickles, sesame seeds, nori seaweed, and pickled daikon

and cucumbers. On my left was the bowl into which the server would be emptying tiny bowls of soba and dipping sauce. In the center a tub in which to empty the sauce after slurping down the noodles. After making sure I was comfortable, the server explained the rules: ❶ The challenge begins as soon as you open the lid of your serving bowl. ❷ 15 wanko soba bowls is the equivalent of an average-sized bowl of noodles. ❸ You can drink the dipping sauce if you like, but it can be quite ﬁlling, so it’s better to pour it into the tub. ❹ When you’re ready to stop, just replace the lid.

ith a cry of “hai, don don!” the server emptied the first wanko into my bowl. As soon as I slurped it down, she yelled “hai, jan jan” and filled it with another mouthful. When she ran out of ammunition, she left to bring back another tray full of wanko. This short respite was an ideal opportunity to try the various condiments laid out in front of me. At first, I was afraid they’d take up valuable space in my stomach, but counting the number of empty bowls stacked in front of me, I realized I had

already managed to empty 15 — a good time to try some condiments and cleanse my palate. This strategy helped stimulate my appetite and I succeeded in going through two more trays or 45 bowls. Finally, after my 50th, I realized it was probably time to stop, which was easier said than done. The server managed to tip in another bowl before I could get the lid on. She was relentless. After 10 more tries, I ﬁnally managed to replace the lid and ﬁnished with a grand total of 60 bowls!

nce you’ve completed the challenge, the restaurant gives you a certiﬁcate showing how many bowls you ate. If you manage to eat more than 100, you’re also given a tablet—though this time they made a special exception for my mere 60. I really enjoyed taking on the wanko soba challenge. It was a fun and tasty experience, and I especially enjoyed the interaction with the server, who kept on encouraging me to eat with shouts of “hai, don don”. The next time you’re in Iwate, give this unique challenge a go too!

Text/Photos: Ichiko Murata

Check out the full article on the Japanese Food website. 38

| WAttention Singapore