Kirin Brewery

Kirin Brewery

On August 18, 2017

In Beer, Japan, Kirin Brewery, Train, Yokohama

The Kirin Brewery in Yokohama made it into my top six “Favorite Brewery Tours.”

Also in the top six are: Revolution Brewing (Chicago, IL), Magic Hat Brewing (Burlington, VT), Lagunitas Brewing (Chicago, IL), Heineken (Amsterdam) and Miller Brewing (Milwaukee, WI).

The tour was free, lasted 80 minutes, and had three free tastings at the end! The staff was friendly and the tour was animated with automation. I can’t wait to go back!

Sonia and I took the train to Yokohama and then switched to a local line. From there we walked to the Brewery.

The area was very industrial and gave us the feeling we were in the wrong place. Until we saw this sign.

Yay! We are on the right track and only 200 meters away! Walking up to the entrance, we were greeted by a security guard.

He showed us to the reception area. We arrived at 11:10 am. The receptionist asked if we had reservations for the tour. No, we don’t. That is ok, she said. The next tour is at 11:20. Would you like to go? Yes, please! We were given buttons to wear and an English lamented guide to help us understand the tour because it was all in Japanese. Our tour guide came and introduced herself to us! Talk about feeling like a royal! The first part of the laminated booklet included the rules.

At the beginning of the tour, we watched a short movie. Please notice all the kids who were part of our tour! It’s important to teach the youth to appreciate beer.

As we moved along the tour route, we stopped for a tourist pose and to snap kawaii pictures.

After the movie, we moved to a room where we could play with the malt and hops. Tables of different sizes were set up for participants to taste and smell the ingredients.

My favorite quote was on the ingredients page. “All the ingredients of beer are gifts from nature.”

We left the ingredients room and were taken to see where the mashing occurred. Another video and light show was used to show the purpose of each tank.

From here, we were able to taste the wort. The kids were so excited! They were cracking us up!

I would describe the wort as tasting like raisin bran water. Like if you put water on your raisin bran instead of milk and then drank it when you finished the cereal. Sweet and branny.

After tasting the wort, we had another interactive exhibit to understand the fermentation process. These cute little cartoons were projected onto a table. A true love story. Yeast eats sugar releasing alcohol and carbon dioxide. Voilà – Wort becomes beer.

Check this out! We passed by a classroom that can be reserved and you can make your own beer! They will store it for you and ship it to you when it is ready. For a small fee, of course!

The final part before tasting is the packaging. The beer we have been learning about is now packaged into Kirin Beer cans.

Japanese happiness is shared throughout the world as Kirin is shipped globally! Locally, we enjoyed the final stop on the tour in the tasting room.

After our tasting, we were ready for lunch. We stopped at the Spring Valley Brewery restaurant on the grounds of the factory.

We split a flat bread salad and yogurt fried chicken. It was delicious!

As we were leaving, we couldn’t resist a few shots lifting the (empty) pony kegs.

It was a fun day! I am more than willing to add this to the Julia tour when you visit. I mean – free beer!!

Aoyama Flower Market Tea House

By wabisabisole

On August 15, 2017

In Aoyama Flower Market Tea House, Japan, Tokyo, Train

I added the Aoyama Flower Market Tea House to my list of places to visit in Tokyo a while ago. The description I read about the Aoyama Flower Market Tea House, described it as being a cozy cafe with a lovely flower market attached. It also described the food as being delicious, the staff very friendly, and the seasonal fruit teas as a delightful surprise for your tastebuds. A rainy Tuesday seemed like the perfect opportunity to make the trip and enjoy flowers and tea!

Sonia and I took the 1 hour and 15 minute trip to the Tea House without much issue. Some days I’m amazing at navigating the train system around Japan. Other days we take 2 or 3 extra trains before arriving at our destination. Today, was a good train day.

As we were waiting for the Tokyo metro train, we used Google Translate to translate the signs on the ground. It translated the sign to say “temporary arrangement place.” Haha! What is even funnier, is the doors didn’t open at the spot like we expected.

We endured a short walk in the rain from the train station to the Aoyama Flower Market Tea House. It might look like we are going to Starbucks. We were not. Please notice the small dark sign on the building! It is for the Tea House.

As we approached, we could see the flowers that seemed to be spilling out of the market.

On one side is a flower market/ florist and on the other side is a small cafe. This view welcomes you as you enter the tea house. We sat in the table to the far left in the picture.

The tables had glass tops with small vases set in them. Underneath was a ledge holding plants. It was such a unique table and gave you the feeling of eating in a garden.

We ordered one of each of the seasonal teas. Sonia ordered the mixed berry iced tea and I ordered the orange and mint iced tea.

They came with a small pitcher of simple syrup. Kawaii!

For lunch I ordered a salad. It was so delicious. Obviously, it contained fresh leafy lettuce. But also, mint and dill. A small side of blueberries, kiwi and edamame. A few slices of orange and breadsticks. Plus, a couple bites of cold potato salad. And fresh, hot bread!

It was dressed with a yogurt dressing and a small lemon syrup was provided on the side.

It was about ¥1600 ($15.00) for salad and drink. Our bill! Ha!

As we were leaving, we walked through the Flower Market. It was small. Yet, every space was filled with fresh flowers!

It was a cheerful outing on a very dreary day. On the way home, we stopped at Tokyu Hands. I couldn’t resist buying a cute little pitcher for simple syrup and creamer. Kawaii!

Watermelon

By wabisabisole

On August 14, 2017

In Family Mart, Japan, Summer, Watermelon, Yorkmart

Nothing taste better on a warm humid summer day than a cool refreshing watermelon. Fruit in Japan is beautiful and expensive. For example, the large watermelon at Costco was ¥2,378 (about $23.00).

At our local grocery store, Yorkmart, there were more size options. The larger one was ¥3,218 including tax! That’s more than $30 for a watermelon! Don’t you love how they are wrapped for easier carrying? Genius!!

The store also sold a variety of watermelon pieces.

I selected a smaller watermelon from Family Mart for us to enjoy. The price (¥650 – $6.00) seemed a little better and the size was perfect.

Plenty of delicious watermelon for us to enjoy for a refreshing dessert.

In June, I was able to find watermelon Chu-hai at the 7-11. I had dreams of making a nice watermelon spritzer by pouring a watermelon Chu-hai over with freshly frozen watermelon. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to find watermelon Chu-hai since I returned from America. I suppose, I’ll need to wait until next year for that delightful beverage.

Administrative Duties

By wabisabisole

On August 11, 2017

In Costco, Japan, Mukade

The past couple days have been less than spectacular with respect to exploring Japan. I had a lot of administrative responsibilities to tackle this month. After reaching our one year point, we had to renew our car insurance. ✅ And after my American vacation, we needed more tollbooth passes. ✅ This month my free gift was two fans! Help us survive the summer.

I also made a trip to Costco. To my delight, they had Halloween decorations and costumes on display. Maybe I’ll survive the summer after all!

Police uniforms that look like BDUs.

This guy was my favorite. I was tempted to buy one to replace our old “scary man.” He was animated – talked, moved, and his eyes flashed!

The other concern for this time of year is the intrusion of bugs. We have been diligent to call housing weekly to have them spray for bugs. Well, it didn’t quite work as great as I hoped. The intense heat was replaced by never ending rain. This equates to bug invasion. This morning, as I was sitting at my computer, something caused me to turn around 180 degrees. I can’t remember why I turned because immediately I saw this awful creature crawling on my floor and went into attack mode. It may not seem very big – just remember, I’m very tall!

After killing it, I reflected on how pleased I was to have white tiled floor. Something I can’t believe I’m saying. But, the bugs can’t hide. For my enjoyment, here’s the video of me killing it. This year, I’m armed and dangerous!

I proceeded to spray the house and found another mukade outside and a huge beetle. Both are dead now.

Needless to say, after the big invasion on Friday, I needed to clean the entire house! Exploring could wait!

Coolish

By wabisabisole

On August 9, 2017

In Coolish, Hot, Japan, Summer

I’ve mentioned before August in Japan is very hot and humid. I took a screen shot of the temperature while I was out and about on errands today. Feels like 132!!! We can all agree that’s HOT!

I’ve started to incorporate several survival strategies when I’m out in the heat. The first is to carry a small ice pack when I walk down the hill to catch the train. I also take a small towel with me to wipe my dripping sweat.

I also carry a pack of Bioré sheets. These sheets are ah-mazing.

The sheets have a light powder on them and have magical cooling power. They help to cool your skin, leave a refreshing tingle and light powder on your skin.

When I’ve exhausted all my efforts to stay cool, I reach for one final weapon against the heat. Coolish. Soft cream in a convenient to-go pack.

At only 153 calories, it is a delightfully cool treat. More importantly, you must kneed the frozen package and hold it to melt the ice cream! Sure you can use your hands to melt it, I prefer the back of my neck!

Ahhhhh…. it’s all about survival!

Nijo-jo Castle

By wabisabisole

On August 7, 2017

In Japan, Kyoto, Nijo-jo Castle, Shinkansen, Tokyo, Train

Before leaving Kyoto on Sunday, Dave and I went to visit Nijo-jo Castle.

The castle was completed in 1603 for Tokugawa Ieyasu. Tokugawa Ieyasu was the first Shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Tokugawa Ieyasu was able to unify Japan and establish period of peace and prosperity for 250 years. Throughout the past 400 years, the castle has continued to witness significant Japanese historical events. In 1994, Nijo-jo Castle was registered on the UNSECO World Hertiage list. This picture is the entrance gate to the outer gardens.

This is the entrance to the interior gardens and castle.

Photos of the inside of the Castle are not permitted. The castle consists of six connected buildings. The interior walls are decorated with beautiful wall paintings and intricate carvings in the hallways connecting the rooms. The best part of walking through the castle was the sound of the squeaky floorboards. The sound is similar to the song of a nightingale and caused by the clamps moving against the nails in the wooden boards and support beams. Unfortunately, according to the brochure, it is a misnomer the squeak was intended to announce the presence of intruders. Oh, well. It’s a fun theory.

The gardens were beautiful. The islands represent a crane and turtle. Symbols of longevity.

Hopefully, from these pictures you can see the expanse of the castle.

From the base of the keep tower that burned down after a lightning strike in 1750, a view of the castle and Kyoto were visible.

We finished our walk around the gardens.

Check out the fall color popping out on the Japanese Maples. Dare we dream of fall!?!

As we left, we were able to walk through a water mister. Ahhhh…

We took the 11:58 Shinkansen back to Tokyo. As per a request from one of my readers, I took a picture of the inside.

And our cute bento boxes for the ride home.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

By wabisabisole

On August 6, 2017

In Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Japan, Kyoto, Shrine, Train, Travel

TripAdvisor listed the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine as “the #1 most popular Japanese site for foreign tourist” for three years in a row! We went to visit early Saturday morning and can understand why the site is so popular. In fact, it’s my new favorite Shrine.

We arrived before 0800 because I read the Shrine will get very busy. Plus, in this part of Japan, it’s extra warm and steamy during the summer months. It was an easy two stop train ride from our hotel.

We were so early, we caught a glimpse of the priests going to work!

The Shrine is famous for the 1000 Torii. Torii are the famous red gates of the Shinto religion.

The main buildings of the Shrine were beautiful and well maintained.

The Shrine is dedicated to Inari. First and foremost, Inari is the god of rice. Second, the god of fertility and industry. Torii gates mark the entrance to sacred ground. Typically, they are made of wood or stone and painted. My research told me the color the Torii is painted is known as vermillion. Vermillion is a bright red made from the mineral, cinnabar. It is considered the color of life and eternity. The Torii at the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine have been donated by those who have been successful in business in honor and gratitude of Inari. The writing on the Torii identifies the donor.

The extra large Torii such as the one in this picture cost the equivalent of $50,000.

The number of Torii present was impressive.

Besides the Torii, the Shrine had many different smaller shrines.

This Shrine was dedicated to this tree. I couldn’t find information about the tree. But, I can appreciate showing the tree respect.

Fox are considered messengers from God and act as guardians of the Inari Shrines. They are set in pairs at the main entrances of the Shrine.

We only saw a small portion of this Shrine. It is possible to climb to the top of Mount Inari. It’s takes about two hours.

We decided today was not that day! Look how sweaty I was after walking around for only 30 minutes!!

I hope when you visit, we have time to go to Kyoto and visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Please, do us both a favor an don’t plan that trip during the summer!! It’s so HOT and muggy!

First Cup

By wabisabisole

On August 5, 2017

In Coffee, Hotel, Japan

I wanted to share a Japanese coffee making experience. We have stayed in several Japanese hotels and this is my first experience with Drip Café.

It’s pretty simple. Just follow the directions.

Also available is a small hot pot.

Check out the tiny cord. Please don’t consider plugging this appliance in anywhere else in the room!

I did my best to follow the instructions that I couldn’t read. I was thankful for the pictures!

Once the light switched off on the hot pot, it’s time to make your first cup. Or two.

Finally, remove the Drip Café and enjoy your first cup.

With cream and a side of Shinkansen for me please!

Nara

By wabisabisole

On August 4, 2017

In Google Map, Japan, Kyoto, Nara, Shrine, Temple

We took a quick trip on Friday from Kyoto to Nara. We expedited the trip by traveling on a Limited Express Train. The typical hour trip only took 35 minutes!

Not only is the route orange in Google Maps, so was the actual train!

Once in Nara, we made our way towards Nara Park. Within Nara Park are several famous Shrines, Temples, and deer!! The deer are a sacred part of Nara Park and considered “messengers of the gods”.

For ¥150, you could buy deer crackers from street vendors. The deer started early begging for crackers from this vendor. Look at the first picture- the deer in front is sticking his tongue out at me!

We didn’t buy any crackers. Instead, we enjoyed watching other visitors feed them.

The deer weren’t shy. They walked right up looking for a snack.

Our first Temple we visited was Kofuku-ji Temple. Pictured here are the Temple’s Golden Hall and five-story pagoda are a National Treasure and date to 1425. The Eastern Golden Hall was built by Emperor Shōmu and the pagoda by his wife, Empress Kōmyō. The pair of buildings represent the ideal of marital harmony.

Other beautiful buildings were also on the Temple’s grounds.

As we continued through Nara Park, we saw even more deer. My favorite was watching people take selfies or pose with the deer and the deer would poop or pee and the tourists didn’t notice! Ha!

The first Shrine we visited was Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The walkway to the Shrine has over 3,000 stone lanterns. No worries, I didn’t take a picture of them all. Although I tried! They were really impressive and unique.

In keeping with my tree theme of the summer, look at the tree growing inside the remains of an old tree!

After visiting the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, we were ready for lunch. It was approaching 11am and starting to really heat up. We doubled back to the area around the train station where there was a conveyor sushi restaurant. It was well air conditioned, served cold beer and delicious sushi. For those reasons, I could have stayed all afternoon.

But, we had the Todai-ji Temple to visit. The Todai-ji Temple is also a World Heritage Site. The current structure was completed in 1709. The Great Buddha Hall is the largest wooden building in the world and houses the largest bronze image of Buddha dating back to 752 (the head however has been replaced and only dates to 1692).

Now that’s a Big Buddha!

My favorite spot in the Great Buddha Hall was behind the Great Buddha. There was a lattice door allowing a delightful breeze to come through. Plus, as Bill would say, we got a chance to see Buddha’s pooper. Can you tell how hot it is!?! The breeze felt amazing!

Buddha’s Gold Pooper.

We continued around enjoying the great hall.

The fierce warriors are guardians to protect Buddha from evil.

And how about this guy? If you rub the corresponding body part on him as the part that ails you, you will be healed. I rubbed his knees and gave him a high-five!

We started to make our way back to the station to head back to Kyoto. We chased the shade the entire 20 minute walk. We purchased our train tickets for the 1400 train to Nara. While waiting to depart, I checked the weather. No wonder we were so hot! Heat index of 119!!!! Wow!

Returning back to our hotel, we enjoyed a siesta that we earned from enduring the days heat and humidity! Plus, as Dave continues to remind me, we are on vacation and naps are always ok!

Train Crush

By wabisabisole

On August 3, 2017

In Japan, Kyoto, Ramen, Rokuoin-ji Temple, Ryoanji Temple, Shinagawa

Today, Dave and I took the Shinkansen from Shinagawa to Kyoto. It was a little over a two hour trip.

I took a few pictures in the station because I LOVE the Shinkansen. It’s such an easy, comfortable, and convenient way to travel around Japan.

We arrived in Kyoto around 1300. We dropped our bags with the concierge at our hotel and went out to eat lunch. We found a ramen joint. We both were happy because we haven’t enjoyed good ramen in a couple months.

We returned to the hotel to check in and crank down the AC. My English student, Manami, helped me plan out our schedule. We needed to hit the ground running to see the “best of Kyoto Temples” during our visit. We caught a taxi from the Ryōan-ji Temple. The Ryōan-ji Temple is famous for it beautiful 15 stone rock garden. There are indeed 15 rocks. Dave and I both counted. The significance of 15 rocks is unknown. More significant is the lack of trees and presence of only the 15 rocks and white gravel. The garden dates back to the 1500s.

Just as impressive were the moss gardens and pond.

The second Temple we went to visit was the world famous Rokuon-ji Temple. More widely known as The Golden Pavilion. It was breathtaking. If only the pond water was still! The Golden Pavilion is justly named. It is covered in actual gold leaf!

Our visit in the afternoon summer sun was perfect for pictures. The gold was stunning.

The gardens were beautiful as well.

We returned to our hotel after visiting the Temples and decided to eat at the Beer Garden on the roof of our hotel. It was an amazing view. We were surrounded by mountains. More importantly, we watched the Shinkansen roll through every 2-3 minutes! All of this while watching the sunset. I told Dave I have developed a train crush on the Shinkansen. It’s truly my favorite way to travel!