Shizuoka Sake Tasting: One-Cup Series 13): Shidaizumi Brewery-Nyan Cup Shidaizumi “Rasta” Umeshu

A very interesting and reasonable way to taste sake is to acquire one-cup sake!
They also make for cute collection of glasses or cups!

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Now, this is the fifth tasting of the second batch of Shizuoka Prefecture One Cup Sake I obtained at Matsuzakaya Department Store in Shizuoka City!

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A one cup sake by Shidaizumi Brewery in Fujieda City

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It is part of a series known all over Japan with cat designs and so-called Nyan Cups!
Although this one contains umeshu, it was originally created with junmai sake made in the same brewery!

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That name “Rasta” is just great!

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Alcohol: 11 degrees
Junmai sake
Ume/Japanese plums
Water
Sugar
Fruit juice

Clarity: very clear
Color: light brown
Aroma: assertive, sweet and fruity. Umeshu
Body: fluid
Taste: drier than expected and very fruity attack.
Complex. Sweetness will come with every sip to disappear quickly.
Lingers only for a little while before departing on a dry “ume” note.
Very pleasant alcohol.

Overall: an incredibly elegant umeshu, so different from most cloying products found on the market.
Its comparatively (for the market!) high alcohol content contributes to an unexpected complexity!
The ume/Japanese plum inside are of the crunchy type and quite dry.
The cup is so exquisite! A must souvenir!
To be indulged in any time, anywhere all year round!

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Japan Urban Art: Utagawa Hiroshige’s Tokaido Stations Ukiyoe in Shin Kambara, Shizuoka City!

Utagawa Hiroshige/歌川 広重 (1797 – 12 October 1858) (real name: 安藤 広重/Ando Hiroshige) is probably the most famous ukiyoe/woodblock print artist when it comes to describing travel scenes in Japan.
When it comes to Shizuoka Prefecture where a Museum is dedicated to him in Yui, Shimizu Ku, Shozuoka City, the Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō immediately come to mind.
And if you look carefully you will find them represented in the most unusual places!

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Now, take the Tokaido Railway Line and get off at Shin Kambara Station in Shizuoka City, Shimizu Ku!

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The place is famous for its cherry trees.
Did you know that the cherry trees offered to the US in Washington are all the scions from a single tree from nearby Okitsu, Shimizu Ku, Shizuoka City!

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Travelers of yore added onto one of Utagawa Hiroshige’s prints!

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Now go the pavement along the station and you will discover the world of Edo at your feet!

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Find this set of tiles and proceed to its left to discover them all in their right order!

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Leaving Edo : Nihonbashi, “the bridge of Japan”!
We are still in present Tokyo!

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1st station : Shinagawa!

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Now, we enter Kanagawa Prefecture:
2nd station : Kawasaki!

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3rd station : Kanagawa (presently in Kanagawa Ku, Yokohama City)!

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4th station : Hodogaya (presently in Hodogaya Ku, Yokohama City)!

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5th station : Totsuka!

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6th station : Fujisawa!

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7th station : Hiratsuka!

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8th station : Oiso (presently in Naka District, Kanagawa Prefecture)!

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9th station : Odawara (Crossing the Sakawa river at a ford.)!

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10th station : Hakone!
The last station inside Kanagawa Prefecture!

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We enter Shizuoka Prefecture from now on:
11th station : Mishima!

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12th station : Numazu!

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13th station : Hara (presently in Numazu City)!

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14th station : Yoshiwara (presently in Fuji City)!

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15th station : Kambara, the main tile (Shin Kambara is part of Kambara, Shimizu Ku, Shizuoka City)!

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16th station : Yui (presently part of Shimizu Ku, Shizuoka city)!

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17th station : Okitsu (presently part of Shimizu Ku, Shizuoka City)!

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18th station : Ejiri (presently part of Shimizu Ku, Shizuoka City)!

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19th station : Fuchū (old name of Shizuoka City)!

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20th station : Mariko (presently in Suruga Ku, Shizuoka City)!

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21st station : Okabe (presently in Fujieda City)!

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22nd station : Fujieda!

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23rd station : Shimada!

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24th station : Kanaya (presently in Shimada City)!

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25th station : Nissaka (presently in Kakegawa City)!

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26th station : Kakegawa!

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27th station : Fukuroi!

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28th station : Mitsuke (presently in Iwata City)!

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29th station : Hamamatsu!

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30th station : Maisaka!

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31st station : Arai!

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32nd station : Shirasuka (presently in Kosai City)!
This is the last station inside Shizuoka Prefecture!

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Now we enter Aichi Prefecture:
33rd station : Futagawa (presently in Toyohashi City)!

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34th station : Yoshida (presently in Toyohashi City)

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35th station : Goyu (presently in Toyokawa City)!

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36th station : Akasaka (presently in Toyokawa City)!

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37th station : Fujikawa (presently in Okazaki City)!

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38th station : Okazaki!

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39th station : Chiryu!

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40th station : Narumi (presently in Midori Ku, Nagoya city)!

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41st station : Miya (presently in Atsuta Ku, Nagoya City)!
This is the last station inside Aichi Prefecture!

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Now we enter Mie Prefecture:
42nd station : Kuwana

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43rd station : Yokkaichi

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44th station : Ishiyakushi (presently in Suzuka City)!

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45th station : Shōno (presently in Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture)!

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46th station : Kameyama!

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47th station : Seki (“the barrier”), (presently in Kameyama City)!

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48th station : Sakashita (presently in Kameyama City)!
This is the last station inside Mie Prefecture!

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Now we enter Shiga Prefecture:
49th station : Tsuchiyama (presently in Kota City)!

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50th station : Minakuchi (presently in Kota City)!

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51st station : Ishibe (presently inside Konan City)!

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52nd station : Kusatsu!

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53rd station : Otsu!
This is the last station inside Shiga Prefecture!

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The end of the Tōkaidō: arriving at Kyoto (actually at the tme Sanjō Ōhashi (the bridge spanning over Kamo River) at Keishi (“the capital”)!

Enjoy your trip!

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Shizuoka Craft Beer: Aoi Brewing-Aoshima (Onshu) Mikan Ale (also called Tekka Slight Mikan Ale)

Once again Aoi Brewing in Shizuoka City has put out a fruit made with local products!

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Aoishima (Onshu) Mikan Ale, that is a beer conceived with “Aoishima” mandarine oranges produced by farmers in Shimizu Ku, Shizuoka City!
This was the name announced in AOI BEER STAND in Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyuki Cho, but Mr. Taka, the brewmaster, told me it should have been named “Tekka Slight Mikan Ale”!
“Tekka” means that the oranges used were the ones pruned off when still green to allow chosen fruit to fully ripen!

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Served on tap
Barley, Maris Otter malt, Munich Malt, Topaz hop, Czech Saaz hop, Aoishima mandarine oranges, live yeast.
Unfiltered
Alcohol/ABV: 5.5%
IBU: 21
Production: 450 liters
Bubbles: very fine bubbles. Longish head. Light orange color
Clarity: slightly smoky (normal considering live yeast and being unfiltered), very clean
Color: light orange color
Aroma: dry and fruity. Dry mandarine oranges
Taste: very dry and fruity attack.
Dry oranges, citruses, hints of herbs.
Lingers long enough for true tasting with oranges staying true all the way and tending to depart on an even drier note with some welcome acidity.

Overall: a dry and fruity craft beer which will appeal to ladies in particular!
A craft beer for all seasons!
Very satisfying and a pleasure to sip. Dry but elegant!
Recommended pairings: pizza, potato salad, cold meats.

Beer Junkie MOTEL

420-0035 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Shichiken Cho, 11-5, IMAKKOKO Bldg. 1F
Tel.: 054-253-6558
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00, 17:00~26:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesday
Parties welcome
FACEBOOK

BEER GARAGE

Aoi Brewing Co.,Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyagasaki Chyo, 30
Tel.: 054-294-8911
Opening hours: 17:00~23:00 (Monday~Friday), 15:00~23:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesdays
COD, Cash On Delivery only for all orders.
MAP
FACEBOOK

AOI BEER STAND
Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyuki Cho, 4-6, Den bill, 1F
Tel.: 054-260-5203
Opening hours: 11:00~23:00
Credit cards OK
FACEBOOK

Some Aoi beers are also available at Aoi Brewery’s restaurant in Shizuoka City, namely

GROWSTOCK

420-0852 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Koyamachi Naka Building, 5F
Tel.: 054-293-9331
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00 (Mon.~Thurs.), 17:00~27:00 (Fri & Sat.), 17:00~24:00 (Sun.)
Parties welcome (reserve!)
Credit Cards OK
FACEBOOK

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Bento: Autumn Saturday Bento!

After a very long laps the Dragon (Missus) seems inclined to prepare traditional Japanese lunch boxes/bento, at least on some days when we both are away at work at lunch time!

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She made this comparatively simple one on Saturday, mostly with leftovers!

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On a bed of steamed rice she first placed shredded grilled salmon, slightly seasoned topped with black olives.

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She spread the middle with boiled egg and tartar sauce salad.

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The vegetable part was conceived with stir-fried beansprouts, shredded carrots and green pepper and plenty of black sesame seeds seasoned with spicy sauce!

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Very healthy and fulfilling!

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Shizuoka Beer Tasting: Baird beer Shuzenji Heritage Helles (Tasted at Hug Coffee Espresso Roaster in Shizuoka City!)

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It was certainly good to discover that it was possible to conduct the tasting of at least 9 craft beers by Bryan Baird’s brewery, namely Baird Beer Co. in a small cafe & bar in Shizuoka City!: Hug Coffee Espresso Roasters!

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This time I sampled Shuzaenji Heritage Helles!

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Name: Baird Beer Shuzenji Heritage Helles
Bottle contents: 330 ml
Barley, barley malt, sugars, yeast
Double fermentation
Unfiltered
ABV: 5%

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Bubbles: very fine bubbles. Long head. white
Clarity: slightly smoky (normal considering live yeast and being unfiltered), very clean
Color: orange
Aroma: dry and fruity.Bread, biscuits, oranges.
Taste: dry and fruity attack.
Complex: bread, biscuits, oranges.
Lingers long enough for true tasting before departing on a soft and dry note with oranges, apricots and hints of lemon.
Very pleasant on the palate.
Soft oranges and biscuits tend to come back with every sip.

Overall Elegant and deep lager for all seasons.
Both complex and gentle on the palate, a craft beer best appreciated slightly chilled at first and slowly drunk as its temperatures slowly to reveal more facets.

HUG COFFEE ESPRESSO ROASTER

420-0857 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Tenma Cho, 8-1-1, Sunrose Bldg., 1F, No. 1-2-8
Opening hours: 12:00~24:00
Closed on Tuesdays
Non-smoking!
HOMEPAGE
FACEBOOK

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Japanese Cuttlefish/Squid Species 4: Surume Ika/Japanese Common Squid-Pacific Flying Squid

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Here we continue with this series which still promises a long haul!

Surume Ika/鯣烏賊 or Japanese Common Squid/Pacific Flying Squid is also called by regional names of Ma Ika, Matsu Ika or Kanzegi.

It is caught off the shores of Northern Japan and south of Kyushu Island.
Catches tend to vary widely.
The Japanese squid can live anywhere from 5°C to 27°C, and tends to inhabit the upper layers of the ocean. They are short lived, only surviving about a year.
The fishing season for the Japanese flying squid is all year round, but the largest and most popular seasons are from January to March, and again from June to September. Gear used to catch the Japanese flying squid is mainly line and hook, lift nets, and gill nets, the most popular method being hook and line used in jigging.
Most of it is turned into various pickled or dried cuttle fish/squid products.
It is also much appreciated broiled or simmered.

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It is quite popular as a simple sushi nigiri,

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or slightly boiled with “tare” sauce.

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Shizuoka Shochu: Hamamatsu-Tenjigura Distillery-Shusseijo Chu Kome Shochu 25 Degrees

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This is the second kome/rice shochu of the same name produced by Hamamatsu-Tenjingura Brewery in Hamamatsu City but it has the regular alcohol contents, that is 25 degrees!

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Rice
Alcohol: 25 degrees

Clarity: very clear
Color: transparent
Aroma: assertive, dry and fruity. Roses, strawberries, rice
Taste: deep, dry and fruity attack.
Complex: rice, roses, grapes with strong hints of strawberries and faint notes of chestnuts, custard and dark chocolate on the end.
Strong but easy to drink even straight at room temperature.
Varies little with food but for a drier but still fruity general impression.

Overall: very elegant rice shochu!
No wonder is creator is a lady brew master.
Will be eminently enjoyable at all temperatures from chilled on the rocks to blended with hot water, but I still appreciated it most straight at room temperature!
Does marry beautifully with cheese!

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Izakaya: Kasuri in Shizuoka City!

Service: attentive and easy-going
Equipment & facilities: old but overall clean. Shared washroom (old-fashioned and basic, but clean)
Prices: reasonable
Strong points: oden, comfort food, great sake list. Great traditional Japanese atmosphere!

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SN3O0546

Shizuoka City is renowned all over Japan for a typical Japanese comfort food called “oden”, a kind of Japanese pot–au-feu.
Now, if you want to eat such local food in our city, the best place is Aoba Oden Gai/青葉おでん街 located along Aoba Park Street in Aoi Ku.
This izakaya alley of another era hasn’t changed much when it was created in 1950’s when the City asked the open-air food stands in Aoba Park Street to move out!

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SN3O0547

Everyone in town has its very own favorite odenya/oden izakaya but the busiest area is naturally Aoba Oden Gai where you still have to choose among 18-odd shops!
It took me a long time to choose mine and I have never visited another since then!

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SN3O0548

It is distinctive for its unusual (in Shizuoka) round-shaped red paper lantern with a small cat daring you to come inside!

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SN3O0549

Kasuri/かすり!
Its noren/shop entrance curtain is actually larger than in most shops inside this alley offering some welcome privacy to its patrons!

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SN3O0553

There are many reasons for Kasuri having become my favorite odenya in Shizuoka City.
First of all, the Mama-san, although a very discreet lady who shuns photographs, is a person with whom it is a pleasure to share a talk. She is from Akita Prefecture but has lived long enough in Shizuoka to claim a “double nationality”! Her single presence encourages all the customers to join in quickly in interesting conversations and I suspect some of them patronize Kasuri to catch a few tidbits of information!

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Another reason is the best choice in sake both from Shizuoka and elsewhere (including Akita of course!) to be found in that alley. The list is practically changing with every week. Make a point to discuss your choice with the Mama San first!

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Don’t worry, all main drinks are available, including beer, wine, shochu, whisky and some unusual discoveries from time to time!

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SN3O0555

Another reason is the style of oden.
In many places in Shizuoka City the broth can be as dark as the middle of the night, but Kasuri serves a version somewhere between Shizuoka and light broth Kansai style, far healthier and tastier for my own point of view.

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The oden themselves are served in many manners, either with Japanese hot mustard, aonori/a mixture based on dry green laver seaweed (only in Shizuoka!) or miso mixture, or with all three if it is your fancy!
Among the oden offered to your choice you will fiund quite a few only encountered in our Prefecture!

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But a more important difference with other odenya is that the Mama San also offers all kinds of freshly prepared comfort food varying with the days and seasonal ingredients available on the local (and in her own Akita Prefecture!)!

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Accordingly the food comes in all styles from very Japanese hors d’oeuvres to…

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hot pasta in small dishes!
Well, it doesn’t matter how many times you come, you can always expect some kind of discovery, especially with many patrons bringing some great morsels from their business trips while having a last drink and morsel before hitting the road back home!

KASURI/かすり

Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Tokiwa cho, 2-3-6, Aoba oden Gai
Tel.: 054-255-6758
Opening hours: 16:30~24:30
Closed on Wednesdays
Cash only
If you come as a small group call beforehand as the place does not have many seats!

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Shizuoka Craft Beer: Aoi Brewing-Honnnori Cha Ale (4th Batch)

Aoi Beer Stand made a point to call me when Aoi brewing (Shizuoka City) had their latest craft beer served on tap there!

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SN3O0810

Now, what kind of craft could it be?

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SN3O0806

Honnori Cha Ale also called O Cha Ale!
This is the fourth batch and it is still different from the previous three!

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SN3O0808

Served on tap
Barley, Maris Otter malt, Pilsner Malt, Topaz hop, Willamette hop, green tea (more than in previous batches!), live yeast.
Unfiltered
Alcohol/ABV: 5.5%
Bubbles: very fine bubbles. Shortish head. creamy, white
Clarity: slightly smoky (normal considering live yeast and being unfiltered), very clean
Color: orange/apricot color
Aroma: assertive, dry. green tea, oranges
Taste: dry, soft and fruity attack.
Complex: tea, biscuits, hints of persimmon and oranges.
Almost sweetish at the beginning but turns dry at the end.
Lingers long enough for true tasting before departing on a very different and dry note.
Varies little with food.
Far more complex than previous batches but easier to drink.

Overall: A craft beer for all seasons.
Its complexity and comparative gentleness will appeal to ladies although gentlemen will particularly enjoy it with their food.
Suggested pairings: sweetish meat, pork, yakitori, hot sandwiches.
Many gentlemen agreed it became more complex with green tea surging through with rise in temperature!

Beer Junkie MOTEL

420-0035 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Shichiken Cho, 11-5, IMAKKOKO Bldg. 1F
Tel.: 054-253-6558
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00, 17:00~26:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesday
Parties welcome
FACEBOOK

BEER GARAGE

Aoi Brewing Co.,Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyagasaki Chyo, 30
Tel.: 054-294-8911
Opening hours: 17:00~23:00 (Monday~Friday), 15:00~23:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesdays
COD, Cash On Delivery only for all orders.
MAP
FACEBOOK

AOI BEER STAND
Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyuki Cho, 4-6, Den bill, 1F
Tel.: 054-260-5203
Opening hours: 11:00~23:00
Credit cards OK
FACEBOOK

Some Aoi beers are also available at Aoi Brewery’s restaurant in Shizuoka City, namely

GROWSTOCK

420-0852 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Koyamachi Naka Building, 5F
Tel.: 054-293-9331
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00 (Mon.~Thurs.), 17:00~27:00 (Fri & Sat.), 17:00~24:00 (Sun.)
Parties welcome (reserve!)
Credit Cards OK
FACEBOOK

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Ishida Shrine (石田神社) in Ishida, Suruga Ku, Shizuoka City!

As I said before Suruga Ku, the area south of Shizuoka JR Station is literally sprinkled with ancient small and quaint Shinto Shrines I mostly discover during my bicycle rides in that particular area!

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SN3O0829

About 5 minutes (count 10 to find it) ride from The station stands Ishida Shrine (石田神社) stands in an area of the same name.

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SN3O0830

Although small and almost derelict locals have been offering new torii gates!

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SN3O0831

Very small stone hand washing basin (Chōzuya) but with its own roof!

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SN3O0832

Two smart looking lions (“Shishi” Or “komainu”) are guarding the shrine!

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SN3O0833

The Left hand one with its closed maw!

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SN3O0834

The right hand one with its mouth open!

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SN3O0854

This wooden board indicates that the shrine was rebuilt in 1875 although it has been a site where shrines have been erected for at least 1,000 years!

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SN3O0835

The shrine (jinjya) with two stone lanterns (ishi-dōrō)!

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SN3O0836

Stag carving!

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Mountain carving!

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The other lantern sports not a doe but a stag with longer antlers!

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SN3O0839

The main worship hall (Heiden)!

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With is rice straw garland (shimenawa) and bell and rope.
I didn’t notice any money offering box (saisen) so I suppose worshippers throw their coins through the door or into the box of smaller shrines also found on the site!

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The roof top pinion!

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Roofing design!

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One of the two lanterns stands.
The left one is decorated with an animal carving!

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SN3O0844

The plain lantern wooden stand on the right!

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SN3O0845

A small shrine (kamidana) on the right!

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SN3O0846

Two more on the left!

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An even smaller and more ancient one made of stone and bearing a rice straw garland!

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And still another one!

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The partly restored inner shrine (honden) barred to the public!

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The cross beams (chigi) show that the local deity is male!
Actually, I had made a continuous mistake about this particular point which was pointed out to me by Facebook friend who just happened to be praying there!

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SN3O0851

Only the roofing seems to be the original part!

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SN3O0852

Trees are still standing in the middle of the residential area!

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SN3O0853

Good-bye, Ishida Shrine!

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Shizuoka Craft Beer: Aoi Brewing-Rothenburg Weissen

Aoi Brewing is continuing experimenting with craft beers and the newest one take us to Germany!

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SN3O0802

Rothenburg Weissen!

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SN3O0805

Served on tap
Barley (50%), wheat (50%), Pilsner Malt (50%), wheat malt (50%), Australian Galaxy Hop, Tetnang hop,live yeast
Unfiltered
Alcohol/ABV: 5.9%
IBU: 29
Bubbles: long head, very fine bubbles, creamy, very light orange color
Clarity: slightly smoky (normal considering live yeast and being unfiltered), very clean
Color: deep orange
Aroma: discreet and fruity. Citruses, biscuits.
Taste: sweetish at first but soon turning to dry and fruity attack.
Complex: first a big surge of oranges immediately followed by dry bread and biscuits.
Some welcome acidity accompanies it along.
Lingers long enough for true tasting before departing on a drier notes with citruses and bread and late surge of persimmon.
Varies little with food.

Overall: A craft beer of Dunkel Weissen type for all seasons.
Very easy to drink.
Will please both genders.
Complex craft beer which will continue to reveal new facets with further sips.
Suggested pairings: mixed nuts, cold meats.

Beer Junkie MOTEL

420-0035 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Shichiken Cho, 11-5, IMAKKOKO Bldg. 1F
Tel.: 054-253-6558
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00, 17:00~26:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesday
Parties welcome
FACEBOOK

BEER GARAGE

Aoi Brewing Co.,Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyagasaki Chyo, 30
Tel.: 054-294-8911
Opening hours: 17:00~23:00 (Monday~Friday), 15:00~23:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesdays
COD, Cash On Delivery only for all orders.
MAP
FACEBOOK

AOI BEER STAND
Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyuki Cho, 4-6, Den bill, 1F
Tel.: 054-260-5203
Opening hours: 11:00~23:00
Credit cards OK
FACEBOOK

Some Aoi beers are also available at Aoi Brewery’s restaurant in Shizuoka City, namely

GROWSTOCK

420-0852 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Koyamachi Naka Building, 5F
Tel.: 054-293-9331
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00 (Mon.~Thurs.), 17:00~27:00 (Fri & Sat.), 17:00~24:00 (Sun.)
Parties welcome (reserve!)
Credit Cards OK
FACEBOOK

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Shizuoka Shochu: Hamamatsu-Tenjigura Distillery-Shusseijo Chu

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Shochu is becoming increasingly popular with ladies and young people and Hamamatsu-Tenjingura Brewery/Distillery came up with a new product with a lower alcohol content for that purpose!

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SN3O0800

Kome/rice shochu
Alcohol: 20 degrees

Clarity: very clear
Color: transparent
Aroma: dry. Rice
Body: fluid
Taste: dry and fruity attack.
    Softer than usual thanks to low alcohol contents, but very solid and pleasant.
Complex: rice, roses, hints of strawberries.
Changes little with food but for more strawberries.
Late appearance of chestnuts once away again from food.

Overall: A shochu for ladies, yes, but gentlemen will also appreciate it.
Somewhat softer and more complex than other rice shochu probably due to the lower alcohol contents.
I tasted it straight at room temperature and I do think it’s the best way to appreciate it!
Also eminently drinkable on the rocks or with a dash of cassis!
Marries splendidly with food!

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Chikatsu Sengen Shrine (千勝浅間神社) in Shizuoka City!

Suruga Ku, south of Shizuoka JR Station, is an area replete with small ancient shrines due to its proximity to the sea.
I discovered another one of them while cycling around Minami Cho and Imagawa Cho: Chikatsu Segen Shrine/千勝浅間神社!

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Although a bit derelict some parts have been renewed and are looked after a kannushi/神主/Shinto priest living in his own private house on the very premises of the shrine!

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SN3O0805

The view past the torii entrance gate!

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SN3O0806

There are still some old trees towering over it!

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The main shrine!

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It was rebuilt in 1875 but dates far more back into the past!

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Two smaller brand new shrines have been added!

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SN3O0823

Kotogara Jinja/金刀比羅神社! It might be related to the one existing in Fujieda City!

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SN3O0824

But its door panels are really ancient!

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Akiba Jinja/秋葉神社!

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The money offering box is new but its lock is old!
I suspect that these two “new” shrines had been here all the time and have been repainted only recently!

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SN3O0809

One of the two stone lanterns!

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SN3O0810

With the cloud and stag carvings!

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SN3O0811

And the cloud carving!

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The other deer is not doe but also a stag with shorter antlers!

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The “shishi”, also called “komainu”, lion guards!

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The left hand side lion guard with its maw closed!

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The right hand side lion with its maw open!

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SN3O0816

The “haiden” hall for the worshipers!

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SN3O0817

The rice straw garland, the bell and its rope!

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On the right side can be found a far smaller and more ancient shrine with a few red torii gates!

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The small shrine!

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Although the red paint is flaking out the torii are still recent. They were gifted by local worshipers!

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Moss has been gathering on the site!

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Good-bye, Chikatsu Sengen Shrine!

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Shizuoka Craft Beer: Aoi Brewing-ALT (2015 Autumn Batch)

Some craft beers produced by Aoi Brewing in Shizuoka City are obviously more in demand than others and new batches with slight differences and improvements come up regularly!

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SN3O0797

ALT, this time the 2015 Autumn batch/version!

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SN3O0795

Served on tap
Barley, Maris Otter malt, Crystal malt, Munich malt, Black malt, Chocolate malt, Australian galaxy Hop, Sylva hop, Select hop,live yeast
Unfiltered
Alcohol/ABV: 5.3%
Bubbles: very fine bubbles Longish, white color
Clarity: slightly smoky (normal considering live yeast and being unfiltered), very clean
Color: very dark brown
Aroma: light and dry. Caramel.
Taste: dry and smooth attack with some pleasant acidity.
Caramel, biscuits.
Lingers long enough for true tasting before departing on a drier note with faint chocolate notes appearing late.
Full body. drinks very easily.
Stays true to first impression all the way through.

Overall: The kind of beer all genders will appreciate all year round.
Very soft for a brown beer.
Slightly softer than its predecessors.
Refreshing, complex enough and utterly satisfying.
Great on it own but would superbly marry with salty and fermented foods!

Beer Junkie MOTEL

420-0035 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Shichiken Cho, 11-5, IMAKKOKO Bldg. 1F
Tel.: 054-253-6558
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00, 17:00~26:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesday
Parties welcome
FACEBOOK

BEER GARAGE

Aoi Brewing Co.,Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyagasaki Chyo, 30
Tel.: 054-294-8911
Opening hours: 17:00~23:00 (Monday~Friday), 15:00~23:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesdays
COD, Cash On Delivery only for all orders.
MAP
FACEBOOK

AOI BEER STAND
Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyuki Cho, 4-6, Den bill, 1F
Tel.: 054-260-5203
Opening hours: 11:00~23:00
Credit cards OK
FACEBOOK

Some Aoi beers are also available at Aoi Brewery’s restaurant in Shizuoka City, namely

GROWSTOCK

420-0852 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Koyamachi Naka Building, 5F
Tel.: 054-293-9331
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00 (Mon.~Thurs.), 17:00~27:00 (Fri & Sat.), 17:00~24:00 (Sun.)
Parties welcome (reserve!)
Credit Cards OK
FACEBOOK

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City

Shimizu Fish Market (清水魚市場) in Shimizu Ku, Shizuoka City!

Shimizu Ku, formerly Shimizu City, a city of its own, before it was merged into Shizuoka City, has always been a major fishing harbor in Japan.
It is actually the biggest tuna hauling port in Japan (not Tsukiji where everything is more or less sent to!)!
Since Shimizu Ku’s merger it has been expanded and modernized together with Shimizu JR Station but the quaint old-fashioned market open to the public is still there!

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To find it get off via the North Exit of Shimizu JR Station and walk for about 10 minutes.
It is pretty well indicated and difficult to miss.
Bear in mind there are two entrances.
Follow me for an easy visit and let’s see what is in store for us!
And remember it can make make for a great monthly tour as the fresh seafood is seasonal and there are many small and very reasonable restaurants inside!

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SN3O0783

Women’s power!

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Shellfish!

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SN3O0750

Fresh oysters!

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SN3O0751

Scabbard/cutlass fish!

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Soles!

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Rosy seabass, red gnomefish!

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Himono/sun-dried fish!
Shizuoka Prefecture produces 50% of all himono in Japan!

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Shiokara/pickled seafood!

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More himono!

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Sun-dried horse mackerel!

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SN3O0758

Shirasu/hard mouth sardine whiting and sakuraebi/cherry shrimps!
A Shizuoka specialty!

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SN3O0759

Freshly deep-fried seafood!

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SN3O0761

Kamoboko/Steamed fish paste!

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Sweet pickled/marinated fish (dry style)!

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SN3O0763

Yellowtail!

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SN3O0764

Red squids!

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SN3O0765

Tuna sashimi!

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SN3O0766

Take-out sushi sets!

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SN3O0767

Sushi donburi take out!

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SN3O0768

Deep-fried fish paste (cold)!

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Sun-dried and seasoned mackerel!

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Small tuna blocks!

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SN3O0771

Night catch!

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More shellfish!

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SN3O0773

More oysters!

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Sun-dried seabreams!

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More expensive variety of sun-dried seabreams!

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SN3O0777

Whale bacon!

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SN3O0779

More of women’s power!

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SN3O0780

Many kinds of dried and seasoned fish!

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SN3O0781

Live fish!

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SN3O0782

Turbo shells!

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SN3O0785

Live spiny lobsters!

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One of the small restaurants!
Don’t worry the restaurants tour will come in a separate report!

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SN3O0787

More ready to takeout seafood!

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SN3O0788

Don’t forget these two!
You will never see them displayed together outside our Prefecture!

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SN3O0789

These dried fish are considered as extravagant souvenirs up in Tokyo!

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Frozen octopus!

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SN3O0791

Big but reasonably-priced tuna blocks!

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SN3O0736

Will meet you there again very soon!

RECOMMENDED RELATED WEBSITES

So Good Sushi Restaurant in Nice France
Navigating Nagoya by Paige, Shop with Intent by Debbie, BULA KANA in Fiji, Kraemer’s Culinary blog by Frank Kraemer in New York,Tokyo Food File by Robbie Swinnerton, Green Tea Club by Satoshi Nihonyanagi in Shizuoka!, Mind Some by Tina in Taiwan, Le Manger by Camille Oger (French), The Indian Tourist, Masala Herb by Helene Dsouza in Goa, India, Mummy I Can Cook! by Shu Han in London, Pie
rre.Cuisine
, Francescannotwrite, My White Kitchen, Foodhoe, Chucks Eats, Things that Fizz & Stuff, Five Euro Food by Charles,Red Shallot Kitchen by Priscilla,With a Glass, Nami | Just One Cookbook, Peach Farm Studio, Clumsyfingers by Xethia, PepperBento, Hapabento, Kitchen Cow, Lunch In A Box, Susan at Arkonlite, Vegan Lunch Box; Tokyo Tom Baker, Daily Food Porn/Osaka, Only Nature Food Porn, Happy Little Bento, J-Mama’s Kitchen, Cook, Eat, Play, Repeat, Bento Lunch Blog (German), Adventures In Bento, Anna The Red’s Bento Factory, Ohayo Bento,

Must-see tasting websites:

-Sake: Ichi For The Michi by Rebekah Wilson-Lye in Tokyo, Tokyo Through The Drinking Glass, Tokyo Foodcast, Urban Sake, Sake World
-Wine: Palate To Pen, Warren Bobrow, Cellar Tours, Ancient Fire Wines Blog
-Beer: Another Pint, Please!, Beering In Good Mind: All about Craft Beer in Kansai by Nevitt Reagan!
ABRACADABREW, Magical Craftbeer from Japan
-Whisky: Nonjatta: All about whisky in Japan by Stefan Van Eycken
-Japanese Pottery to enjoy your favourite drinks: Yellin Yakimono Gallery

Non gastronomy must-see sites by Shizuoka Residents

HIGHOCTANE/HAIOKU by Nick Itoh in Shizuoka City