Timeless Culture: A Journey to See, Taste, and Experience the Depth of Traditional Industries in Osaka and Nara
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Kansai is a region in the main island of Japan that is filled with deep history stretching back centuries with many traditions still preserved with pride today. Kansai may even be considered to be home to the best food in Japan, especially with Osaka’s reputation for being “The Kitchen of Japan;” so it’s no question that these traditions envelop the food culture here. Some of the most iconic foods of Japan have roots in Kansai that will have anyone fascinated. Read along to learn about courses on discovering highly regarded food industries such as the long history of tea, the depth of fermented delicacies, and the intricacy of famous cutlery- all native to this remarkable area of Japan.
The Tea Industry
First up is tea- something that has a place alongside every traditional Japanese meal, and sometimes is the focal point of ceremonies. Its unique customs have developed into the practice of "chanoyu" (the Way of Tea) In this course, you’ll be immersed in a variety of tea related experiences, including learning the fundamental tea ceremony practices at locations associated with Sen no Rikyū, who perfected the style of wabi-cha. From the tea itself to the tools, traditions, and even architecture surrounding it, it is an integral part of Japanese food culture as well as the culture of hospitality.
1. Tea Ceremony Museum at Sakai Rishou no Mori: Learn About the World of Tea Ceremony and Matcha Established by Sen no Rikyū (Sakai City, Osaka)
This museum offered an immersive journey into the history of tea ceremonies through not only exhibits, but even a restored tea room designed by Sen no Rikyū. Here, one can view intricate models of traditional teahouses, learn about the cultural significance of tea, and participate in a ceremony complete with wagashi (Japanese sweets) which is instructed by practitioners from the three tea schools of Japan.
2. Chasen Craftsmanship and Matcha Experience at Suika-en (Ikoma city, Nara)
Matcha would be nothing without the tools to make it- and the final tool in the process of enjoying Matcha is the “chasen,” a special type of whisk. This tool is meticulously crafted from bamboo. Takayamacho, where Suika-en is located, is actually the birthplace of the chasen; The Takayama chasen is designated as a traditional craft. Being able to create chasen with them is rare to say the least, especially considering the techniques handed down over generations. After you're done making your chasen, you'll be able to whisk your own match and enjoy an authentic tea ceremony and savor the rich and deep flavor of matcha.
3. Persimmon Leaf Tea and Kakigori at Houseki Bako (Nara city, Nara)
In central Nara, you can enjoy a unique variety of teas made from persimmon leaves, which even throughout Japan, is a rarity. This experience is very indicative of Nara as the special persimmon leaf-wrapped sushi (kakinohazushi) is quite famous. This shop is also known for its refreshing kakigori (shaved ice) which features various season fruits throughout the year, adding a sweet touch to the tea experience. Many famous individuals attend this store when visiting the area, perhaps due to its position near the famous area of free-roaming deer.
4. Kakinoha Sushi at Heisou (Nara city, Nara)
Just a stroll away from Houseki Bako is another place where you enjoy persimmon leaves in a different way. Heisou offers one of the top chances to enjoy some of the local delicacies: a special kind of sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves. The leaves are actually hand picked by the staff to make sure they fit the size of the sushi. You'll notice the beautiful green and red varieties that compliment the sushi and other exclusive ingredients that you can’t find elsewhere.
The Alcohol & Fermentation Industries
Alcohol (Sake)
As with many cultures around the world, alcohol has a special place in culture and traditions. Japan is known well for its meticulous manufacturing techniques, and alcohol is not spared in the slightest. In fact, the brewing of nihonshu, or “sake” is considered to be an intangible (UNESCO) cultural heritage. There are many opportunities to experience this incredible facet of Japan, but the shop Imanishi Shuzo and the brewery Umenoyado are among the most prestigious in the area.
1. Historic Sake Shop: Imanishi Shuzo (Sakurai city, Nara)
In the heart of Nara, you'll be able to explore a traditional sake brewery stocked with unique varieties of nihonshu, perfect for aficionados and casual tasters alike. Some even say that this store may be the birthplace of Sake brewing itself- picking up a bottle here will surely be a memorable experience.
2. Nihonshu Brewery: Umenoyado Shuzo (Katsuragi city, Nara)
At a renowned brewery, you can learn about the intricate production process of nihonshu; you'll also be able to shop for and taste some of their premium varieties as well ones exclusive to the location. The wonderful thing about Umenoyado is their innovative varieties blended with tested techniques- they offer various types of fruit wine and liqueurs as well as a huge variety of nihonshu.
Fermentation
Nothing quite matches the tastes that fermentation can bring to the table. Japan boasts a wide variety of fermented dishes, each with their own unique flavors and styles. One type of fermentation called “koji” can only be found in Japan, so it is absolutely worth trying. Soy sauce, one of the most iconic condiments, has an incredibly long and robust history you wont want to miss out on learning about. You'll be able to experience these in depth by staying at a renovated soy sauce brewery and enjoying lunch at a restaurant specializing in everything “koji.”
1. Tawaramoto Maruto Soy Sauce: Stay at Nara’s oldest Soy Sauce Brewery
Maruto is the oldest soy sauce brewery in Nara (and one of the oldest in Japan), and provides a deep dive into the production process and history of this quintessential Japanese condiment. The brewery also serves as a luxury accommodation where you can relish gourmet meals prepared with freshly pressed soy sauce.
2. Koujiya Amekaze: Enjoy an Incredibly Tasty Lunch and shop for Koji-based Products (Shiki District, Nara)
This restaurant focuses on koji (a type of fermentation bacteria only found in Japan), we enjoyed a delicious meal and learned about the role of koji in Japanese cuisine. A visit to their shop provided a chance to buy unique koji-based products such as miso, cheese spread, mushroom sauce, and much more.
Some of the finest Knives in the World
Japan is already well known for its steel quality, let alone its meticulous craftsmanship in general. These two important factors come together beautifully in the art of knife manufacturing, and some of the best examples you'll be able to find in Japan are in the Sakai region of Osaka, one of Japan’s top three knife production areas. Here you'll be able to witness the high level of precision and care- which is meticulously divided among specialized craftsmen for each step- that goes into creating each blade and why they have gained global popularity.
1. Learn about knife production at Sakai Densho-kan (Sakai city, Osaka)
Here you will not only be able to shop for some incredibly high quality knives, but also witness an incredibly rare knife collection and overview of traditional knife production. You can not only visit but also handle and purchase blades from Sakai.
And, as a bonus, you'll also be able to see their carp streamers- another product of the company.
2. Buy Sakai Knife as Souvenir at Baba Hamono Seisakusho (Sakai city, Osaka)
At Baba Hamono Manufacturing, you can also purchase knives made in Sakai. Be sure to stop by when selecting souvenirs.
There's no question that Japan has a beautifully rich history and so many individuals who are dedicated to preserving it. Kansai is home to so many integral parts of the food industry of Japan as a whole- it is a must see for anyone who is interested in the depth of Japan’s food and its long history. Filled with impressive stories, rich flavors, and exclusive interactions, you'll have an unforgettable experience in the various areas of this historically profound region of Japan.
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