Business cards, flyers, invitations and more! Contact printshop.stripes.com 042-552-2510 (extension77315) 227-7315 VOLUME 14 NO. 31 NOVEMBER 12 − NOVEMBER 25, 2020 SUBMIT STORIES TO: [email protected] STRIPESOKINAWA.COM FACEBOOK.COM/STRIPESPACIFIC FREE INSIDE INFO

HAVE YOU EVER… A POEM BY WWII SAILOR PAGE 2

WHAT IS ’S THANKSGIVING? PAGE 3 Nakagusuku Castle Ruins MOS BURGER GOES VEGGIE PAGE 6 an architectural masterpiece Page 4

DEADLINES FOR SHIPPING HOLIDAY GIFTS NEAR PAGE 8

7-5-3 Day Japanese tradition and rite of passage PAGE 5

Special 8-page pullout inside! File photos 2 STRIPES OKINAWA A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC NOVEMBER 12 − NOVEMBER 25, 2020 HAVE YOU EVER… A poem by a WWII sailor Editor’s Note: Cindy Pearson Gates sent this to Stars and Stripes. Here’s what she had to say: “Hello, my father, now passed, was a Max D. Lederer Jr. Publisher Boatswain’s Mate on an LST in the Battle of Biak. When he was Lt. Col. Richard E. McClintic 19, he wrote a poem after the battle that is poignant and raw and Commander honest. In his honor, I am putting it out there for you, in case you Chris Verigan would be interested in it.” Cindy, we are very interested. Thank Engagement Director you so much for sharing a part of your father with us. Marie Woods Publishing and Media Design Director Chris Carlson BY WILLIAM G. PEARSON Publishing and Media Design Manager Eric Lee Have you ever… Advertising and Circulation Manager Waited three months to catch up with your mail only to find it was Kentaro Shimura Production Manager sent back to your starting place? DUKW unloading at Biak. Photo courtesy of Hyperwar, a database of the US military Rie Miyoshi Drunk brackish water and tried to scrub clothes with salt water? Engagement Manager Lived off of K rations until it all tastes like cardboard? Watched the second leader on your gun have his arm amputated Denisse Rauda Publishing and Media Design Editor Spent three days in modified G.Q rain, shine, snow, or hell? in an emergency operation? Publishing and Media Design Writers Fired a 40 mm until it’s red hot and the paint on the mount curls Had your gun jamb at a very critical moment and cut and burn ChiHon Kim Shoji Kudaka up and burns? your hands trying to clear it? Takahiro Takiguchi Layout Designers Stood watches till your thoughts run in 4 hour cycles? Paid $32 for a pint of whiskey? Mamoru Inoue Been promised a protective umbrella from the army and then Heard the inhumane cries of the wounded shipmate who sleeps Yukiyo Oda Yuko Okazaki learn it was recalled? right under you? Kayoko Shimoda Multimedia Consultants Been blasted so hard by concussion that your head aches for Sorted through piles of flesh, steel and guts looking for a dog tag Max Genao Doug Johnson months and the sound of explosion still rings in your ears? or some means of identification? Brian Jones Jason Lee Hans Simpson Chae Pang Yi Stared into the open bomb bay of a Betty bomber, so close you Been so scared you couldn’t breathe, talk, or move? Gianni Youn Robert Zuckerman Graphic Designers could touch it with your gun barrel? Seen grown men bawling like two-year-old kids? Kenichi Ogasawara Yosuke Tsuji Been promised you could return to the U.S. after 18 months only Buried a man in a bucket? Sales Support Kazumi Hasegawa Hiromi Isa to figure you got out lucky after 24? Seen tracers from shore batteries arch over you like sky rockets? Ichiro Katayanagi Yoko Noro Wondered just why you are fighting and what this war is all Yusuke Sato Saori Tamanaha Had chills and fever with Malaria? Toshie Yoshimizu Un Chong Yu Seen your buddies blasted to pieces and then had to scrape and about? scrub them off the cold steel a few hours later? Drawn Navy pay and then hear of people in the States striking For feedback and inquiries, Piped a man over the side in military burial at sea? for higher wages and better living conditions? contact [email protected] Been the sole target of seven zeroes with nothing more than a fly You haven’t? To place an ad, call DSN 645-7419 swatter for protection? Well, you’re a lucky son of a bitch! stripesokinawa.com/contact NOVEMBER 12 − NOVEMBER 25, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES OKINAWA 3

WHAT IS JAPAN’S THANKSGIVING?

BY HASHI, TOFUGU.COM NATIONAL HOLIDAY In both countries, Thanksgiv- K, obviously Japan ing Day is a national holiday. In doesn’t celebrate the the US, the president “pardons” O same Thanksgiv- a turkey, there’s a huge ing that we do in parade in New York America; America’s TOFUGU.COM City, a lot of business- Thanksgiving is a es are closed, and gov- cornucopia-filled ernment services are holiday with a lot of mostly shut down. traditions unique In Japan, it’s not to the good ol’ US quite as festive, of A. but still very much But even though a national holiday. Most businesses Japan doesn’t have are still open on La- Thanksgiving the bor Thanksgiving Day, same way we under- but government services stand it in the US, Japan File photos are closed down. There are still has a Thanksgiving little celebrations all over holiday right around the same the country, but none with the time. It’s called kinr kanshahi, ō spectacle of the celebrations in or Labor Thanksgiving Day, and the US. it’s a national holiday. It has the same roots as Thanksgiving here in the US – it was once a fall harvest festival, but has since changed in mean- HOW IS JAPANESE ing. Nowadays, Labor Thanks- giving Day is a holiday celebrat- THANKSGIVING ing workers in Japan. DIFFERENT? How can you compare Ameri- can Thanksgiving Day and Jap- anese Labor Thanksgiving Day? What’s the same and what’s dif- ferent? Let’s take a look: NO TURKEY Sorry Japanese people, but you don’t get enormous, heart- attack inducing feasts the way us Americans do. On the plus HOW IS JAPANESE side, turkeys needn’t fear the annual genocide they face here THANKSGIVING in the US. THE SAME? POLITICAL HOLIDAY While you might get into some heated conversations with your BEING THANKFUL relatives during Thanksgiving Both American and Japanese in the US (will somebody tell my Thanksgiving days ob- uncle that the election is over?!), viously, focus on it’s generally a pretty apoliti- giving thanks. cal holiday. It’s pretty hard In America, to politicize big meals it’s more and families getting to- about giv- gether. ing thanks in Now Labor Thanks- an abstract giving Day isn’t an ex- sense – giving plicitly political thanks for the holiday, but it things that have definitely has happened to you, political impli- the people in your life, cations. Labor etc. – but in Japan, it’s a lot organizations more specific. across the In Japan, Labor Thanks- country take Stripes Okinawa is A Stars and Stripes Community Publication. This newspaper is authorized for publication giving Day is about being the opportunity by the Department of Defense for members of the military services overseas. However, the contents thankful for workers who do to have a conver- of Stripes Okinawa are unofficial, and are not to be considered as the official views of, or endorsed by, the their job and do it well. Some- sation about the accom- U.S. government, including the Department of Defense or the U.S. Pacific Command. As a DOD newspaper, times you literally thank those plishments of the labor move- Stripes Okinawa may be distributed through official channels and use appropriated funds for distribution people — school kids sometimes ment, workers’ rights, etc. to remote and isolated locations where overseas DOD personnel are located. The appearance of advertising make thank you cards and gifts So whether you’re celebrating in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement of those products by for municipal workers like po- Thanksgiving Day in the US or the Department of Defense or Stars and Stripes. Products or services advertised in this publication shall be lice, firefighters, and hospital Labor Thanksgiving Day in Ja- made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. workers. pan, have a good holiday! 4 STRIPES OKINAWA A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC NOVEMBER 12 − NOVEMBER 25, 2020 Nakagusuku Castle Ruins an architectural masterpiece

STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHOJI KUDAKA, composed of several flatlands called STRIPES OKINAWA kuruwa. The castle ruins have six: south, west, north, first, second, and akagusuku Castle Ruins will third kuruwa. transport you back in time to The south kuruwa served as a sanc- around 14th or 15th century tuary while west kuruwa was used N to train troops and horses. The first Okinawa while providing amazing views of the main island’s east coast. kuruwa, located at the center of the For many, Shuri Castle might be at castle, is the biggest among the six the top of the Okinawa bucket list, but and is considered a location for the add a stop to explore Nakagusuku, an- main temple. The second kuruwa is other UNESCO World Heritage site. known for its beautiful surrounding This majestic location boasts both stone walls, and it has a place of wor- beauty and history. ship. While these four kuruwa were Construction on the castle started constructed in the 14th century, the in the 14th century and was completed remaining two, the north and third ku- in the mid-15th century as overseen ruwa were constructed later by Gosa- by Gosamaru, a lord appointed as gov- maru in the 15 century. ernor of the district by the Ryukyu If you look closely at the walls of Kingdom. the third kuruwa, you would note that stones stack up differently from those Gosamaru was known for his great A stone wall of the second kuruwa. fortification skills. His expertise is of the original four kuruwa. The north well reflected in some structures of kuruwa’s back gate was compared to the castle, many of which retain their an “Egyptian style” arch by Perry’s original form, including the smooth crew, according to a brochure. The curves that the stone walls and arches north kuruwa also has a water well, draw, as well as the methodical way which you can take a close look at by each stone is stacked. Even Commo- going down some stairs. dore Matthew Perry’s crews were These six kuruwa amount to 14,473 impressed by the construction when (the site itself is 110,473 in total). they made a port call in 1853, accord- In December of 2000, Nakagusu- ing to the ruins website. ku Castle Ruins were certified as a Although Gosamaru’s authority UNESCO World Heritage site along Stone walls around the third would come to a tragic end as accu- with other castle ruins and related kuruwa, looked at from the north. sations of treason led him to commit properties in Okinawa. suicide in 1458, he is still fondly re- Visiting this historical location is membered and associated with this only a 10-minute drive from Camp architectural masterpiece. Foster. Check it out for a brisk walk, Just like other castle ruins in Oki- great views and some history. nawa, Nakagusuku Castle Ruins is [email protected]

A view of Nakagusuku Bay from the castle ruins.

Curving stone walls of the second kuruwa.

Nakagusku Castle Ruins

An arched gateway between the first and second kuruwas.

GPS COORDINATES: N 26.285650, E 127.803283 HOURS: 18:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ADMISSION: 400 yen for adult, 300 yen for mid and high school student, 200 yen for elementary school student. View Video NOVEMBER 12 − NOVEMBER 25, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES OKINAWA 5

Check it out

It all adds up on Japan’s 7-5-3 Day BY TAKAHIRO TAKIGUCHI, hair, 5-year-old boys of were procession and walked along a ally, girls are supposed to cel- 40,000 – 60,000 yen ($350-500). STRIPES OKINAWA allowed to wear hakama (tradi- path to the shrine as traditional ebrate shichigosan when they Though the expense may tional male pants), and 7-year- music played. are three and seven. In fact, we seem high to some, celebrating f you visit a Japanese old girls replaced the simple Once in the shrine, a priest took my daughter to the same Shichigosan in Japan is a rite shrine or temple in Novem- cords they used to tie their ki- purified all the children in the shrine when she turned seven. of passage that is cherished by I ber, you will likely see a lot mono with the traditional wider Shinto way. He then called each I remember how impressed and families. of young children dressed in and elaborate obi (sash). child’s name presented them proud we were to see my daugh- [email protected] beautiful traditional attire and When my daughter turned with a chitoseame (thousand- ter wearing a elaborate kimono, holding colorful envelopes filled three, my wife and I dressed her year candy), long, thin, red and while she had worn only a sim- with candy. And you’ll see their in traditional attire and took her white candy in a long envelop ple type of reddish padded vest proud parents and other family to a local shrine. We and other decorated with a crane and a called “hifu” during her cer- members snapping photos and participating families were turtle. The candy symbolizes emony when she was three. shooting video. asked to join a procession led by healthy growth and longevity. It Kimono rental shops This is “shichigosan” (seven- a Shinto priest and shrine maid- was a joy watching my daughter are available anywhere five-three), a traditional cel- ens, who carried offerings to the answer the priest’s call and re- in Japan, and most have ebration and rite of passage in gods. We followed the ceive her candy. set ups with studios, the Land of Rising Sun. After walking out of the so you can have your Tradition suggests that girls shrine, we took a family - photo taken at the studio ages three and seven and five- to and had a dinner with my before or after visiting a year-old boys, should visit a lo- relatives. Some Christians shrine. The price for ki- cal shrine or temple to drive out in Japan also celebrate mono rental, hair and ki- evil spirits and wish for a long shichigosan at their mono preparation healthy life every year on Nov. church, which is and photos may 15. However, since shichigosan what we did the fol- cost between is not designated as a national lowing week at our holiday, any day in November Catholic church. is acceptable. I actually took Tradition- my daughter for her celebra- tion (many years ago) to a local shrine on Nov. 11. Shichigosan is said to have originated during the Edo Pe- riod (1603-1867). For cen- turies in Japan, Novem- ber has been the month to thank the gods for the year’s harvest. On Nov. 15, ances- tors gave thanks for a bountiful harvest, as well as the growth and health of their children, by offering harvested products at their family altars or to shrine or tem- ple altars. In the Edo era, there were tradi- tional rites of pas- sage for children ages three, five and seven. Girls who reached the age of three were allowed to grow out their File photos 6 STRIPES OKINAWA A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC NOVEMBER 12 − NOVEMBER 25, 2020

MOS BURGER GOES VEGGIE STORY AND PHOTOS BY different utensils. The press SÉBASTIEN DUVAL, release in Japanese is clearer, JAPAN TRAVEL indicating that the recipe does Inside of MOS Plant-Based Green Burger. not include any animal-based irst in Japan: MOS ingredient i.e. the green burg- Burger debuted a 100% er is vegan. Interestingly, the plant-based burger na- F press release big eaters Australia, tionwide on 21 MOS Plant-Based also states that may find the burger a China, In- May 2020 to Green Burger the burger was bit small. donesia, Sin- better wel- created for flex- gapore, South come for- itarians. Travel tips Korea, Tai- eign travellers A Green wan, Thailand... and spectators n A takeaway is cheaper Burger is lit- “MOS” officially of the 2021 To- due to Japan’s consumption erally green tax system (538 yen + 8% stands for Mountain, Ocean, kyo Olympic thanks to spin- Sun; “standing tall and firm & Paralympic instead of 10% on site). ach purée in the n Be careful with the sauce/ like a Mountain, having a heart Games and to buns. The thick that is broad and deep as the help fulfil the toppings, especially if you Hand sanitizer. containing eat with a kid or wear nice Ocean, and having passion like United Na- soybean, devil’s the Sun that never burns out”! tions Sustain- clothes. tongue (konjac) n The menu is multilingual, Coronavirus: able Develop- MOS Burger’s seasonal drinks and cabbage is are worth trying. My lemon credit cards and electronic Making you safer ment Goals by accompanied money are accepted, many promoting good ginger ale with Setouchi Has- by fresh tomato saku citrus was delicious! restau- rants provide free Wi- My experience in Kanagawa health & well- slices, crunchy Fi and electric plugs, Prefecture suggests that MOS being (SDG #3) Confusing poster. shredded let- the staff is typically Burger and its staff do their best as well as re- tuce, and a friendly, and allergy- to ensure their clients’ safety. sponsible con- tasty tomato related details about Among measures taken during sumption & production (SDG sauce. Buddhists will ap- the whole menu can the coronavirus pandemic: #12). Vegans, vegetarians, preciate the absence of the 5 be downloaded in eco-minded & health-conscious pungent roots: chives, garlic, English! n Hand sanitizer at the entrance. travellers in Japan will ap- leeks, onions, and scallions. In addition to the n Transparent plastic sheet be- preciate the convenience and The vegetables are freshly green burger (only tween the client and staff at the taste! supplied by 3,000 farmers all vegan product), counter. over Japan. MOS Burger pro- n Staff wearing masks. I tried the Green Burger poses diverse Ingredients & new taste n Half of the seats marked with at Mos Burger Hashimoto Green Burger + fries + lemon ginger ale with non-vegan classic Posters describe the MOS 3-Chome a week af- Setouchi Hassaku citrus. & original burg- a do-not-use cross to ensure Plant-Based Green Burger as ter the launch; it looked like a ers: , teri- social distancing. n “A vegetables and grain-based meat burger, was juicy, had a yaki burger, MOS burger Tray to be left on the table burger that does not contain nice texture, and tasted good MOS Burger shrimp tempura (rice layers after the meal to avoid having animal ingredients among its with an original savour not so instead of bread), MOS Ya- people move around (staff will main ingredients”, avoiding the meaty. Veggies and non-veg- Fast-food chain created in sai Burger “Natsumi” series take care of everything). word “vegan” only because the gies alike should enjoy it so do Tokyo in 1972, MOS Burger (wrapped in lettuce instead of green burgers are not cooked not hesitate to order one or two can be proud of its 1,300 res- bread - “yasai” means “vegeta- on separate surfaces using during your Japan travel! Still, taurants in Japan and 370 in ble” in Japanese), etc. WEBSITE: mos.jp NOVEMBER 12 − NOVEMBER 25, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES OKINAWA 7

Although his numbers weren’t quite that of his record-breaking 2007 campaign with the Patriots, Randy Moss added to his Hall of Fame numbers with one final season in 2012. The 35-year-old receiver, who most notably played for the Vikings and Pats, finished his career with a pair of single-season gigs with teams. What team did Moss play for in his final hurrah?

Stripes Sports Trivia49ers Francisco San

Answer ContacBiweeklyt CustomerHelp@stripes Crossword .com- Week to get of your11/9/20 free copy of Welcome to the Paci c magazine!

Digital edition also available. Download online

Crossword by Margie E. Burke ACROSS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

1 Rough guess 14 15 16 5 Game for high rollers 17 18 19 Fall shade 10 20 21 22 14 Part of GMT 15 Trojan War 23 24 25 DID YOU figure 26 27 28 29 30 31 16 Not duped by KNOW? 17 Newspaper bio 32 33 34 35 36 18 High-society 37 38 39 40 group 19 Pantyhose flaw 41 42 43 44 20 Amount rarely ried bonito, along with dried kelp, is paid 45 46 47 an indispensable ingredient in miso 22 Crown 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 soup and broths for various types of 23 Prop for Picasso 55 56 57 58 Dnoodles. They can both also be used as a 24 Genesis villain Rocker David topping for dishes like okonomiyaki, tofu 26 59 60 61 Lee or even pizza and pasta. Traditionally, 28 Sleuths, briefly 62 63 64 dried bonito is made through a complicat- 29 "Mr. Robot" net- 65 66 67 ed process that includes simmering, smok- work ing, sun-drying and fermenting which 32 They show the Copyright 2020 by The Puzzle Syndicate takes more than a month. way 35 Torn's partner 2 Leg bone 42 Cry of pain 55 "Dancing Queen" 37 Complaint 3 Off the mark 44 Vegan no-no group 38 Stomping ground 4 More prosper- 47 Spouse's family 56 Heart of the 40 Rooney who ous 49 Female relatives matter played Lisbeth 5 "Believe" singer 50 Hammerin' Hank 58 Head for the hills Salander 6 Really enjoy 52 Enthusiasm 60 Turn-of-the- 41 Instructive 7 Brady house- 53 Different century year Kanji of 43 Logo, e.g. keeper 54 Culinary herb 45 Whole bunch 8 Mary Martin role the week 46 Notable period 9 Sony on the 魚Sakana/gyo (Fish) 47 Notion NYSE 48 Desert basin 10 Bow coating 51 Specialized lingo 11 Artificial Answers to Previous Crossword: 55 Misbehave 12 Marquee name Language Lesson 57 Deceptive state- 13 Robe for Caesar L A D E N S C A R S C A T ment 21 Till the earth A R I S E T I R E T A L E 59 Muffin type 22 Midterm, say U N R E S E R V E D O M E N 60 Aesop's ending 25 Like some olives G I G S T A I N S L E E T It’s crowded. 61 Pasty-faced 27 Casual garment H E E L S P L A T T E R 62 Rifle part 30 Drought-ridden I D Y L L R E N A M E 63 "Gladiator" star 31 Eden dweller B L A M E E Y R I E M I A Biweekly Sudoku - Week of 11/9/20 64 Kind of cell 32 Aid in crime R O B E R T S A P P E A L S 65 Gets rid of 33 Change, as A D S V I S I T L A N K Y 66 Clergyman's decor D E T A I L N I T E R Kondemasu. house 34 Put back to work A S S E S S O R N A A N 67 Miffed 35 Harbor craft A M I S H L U N A R U N O 36 Make flush J A N E S A L A M A N D E R DOWN 39 Literary A Y E S O V A L P O I N T 1 Mink, for one repetition R O D S W E R E T R O T H

Edited by Margie E. Burke SUDOKU Difficulty: Medium HOW TO SOLVE: 5 1 9 Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and 2 7 each set of 3 by 3 boxes must 9 1 6 contain the numbers 1 to 9. Answers to Previous Sudoku: 3 1 5 4 2 6 3 7 9 8 8 5 7 2 2 9 8 1 4 7 3 5 6 6 7 3 9 8 5 1 2 4 1 5 3 6 5 8 2 1 4 7 9 4 7 1 3 9 7 2 9 4 3 6 5 8 1 8 4 1 7 5 9 2 6 3 9 3 4 8 6 3 7 2 9 1 5 2 4 6 9 3 2 5 1 8 6 4 7 Copyright 2020 by The Puzzle Syndicate 5 1 7 6 9 4 8 3 2

8 STRIPES OKINAWA A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC NOVEMBER 12 − NOVEMBER 25, 2020 Deadlines for shipping holiday gifts near How to send it To ensure delivery of holiday gifts by Dec. 25, the Postal Service recommends that cards and packages your mail n Space-available (SAM) – The be sent to military APO/FPO/DPO addresses overseas no later than the mailing dates listed below. n Special handling – Offers pref- cheapest service because Military Mail Priority Mail erential handling if you’re sending something that needs packages take longer to reach Addressed Express Military First-Class Mail Priority Mail Parcel Airlift Mail Space Available Retail Ground a destination. To and From Service (PMEMS) Letters and Cards (PAL) – 2 Mail (SAM) – 3 extra care. – 1 It offers air transport of parcels on a space-available APO/FPO/DPO AE Mailing tips ZIPs 090-092 Dec. 18 Dec. 11 Dec. 11 Dec. 4 Nov. 27 Nov. 6 basis to or from military post Print names and addresses offices outside the U.S and APO/FPO/DPO AE N/A Dec. 9 Dec. 9 Dec. 4 Nov. 27 Nov. 6 of both shipper and recipient surface transport within the ZIP 093 clearly on packages with a pen U.S. There is a weight limit APO/FPO/DPO AE Dec. 18 Dec. 11 Dec. 11 Dec. 4 Nov. 27 Nov. 6 or permanent marker. of 70 pounds and a combined ZIPs 094-098 Put an extra label with the length and girth limit of 130 addresses inside the package in APO/FPO/DPO Dec. 18 Dec. 11 Dec. 11 Dec. 4 Nov. 27 Nov. 6 inches. AA ZIP 340 case the original one is defaced. n Parcel airlift (PAL) – Uses air Also include an itemized list of APO/FPO/DPO Dec. 18 Dec. 11 Dec. 11 Dec. 4 Nov. 27 Nov. 6 transport on a space-available AP ZIPs 962-966 contents. n basis similar to SAM plus air https://www.usps.com/holiday/holiday-shipping-dates.htm Select a box strong enough transport to the destination city to protect the contents and or the city nearest to it inside appropriate for the amount and Holid S the U.S. There is a weight limit ay mailing deadlines between the Pacifiic and CONU size of items inside. of 30 pounds and a combined n Leave space for cushioning length and girth limit of 60 inside the carton, using bubble inches. 1 – PMEMS: is available to selected military/diplomatic Post Offices. Check with your local wrap, Styrofoam peanuts, n First class – Handles ite ms Post Office to determine if this service is available to an APO/FPO/DPO address. or newspaper to protect the weighing up to 13 ounces. 2 – PAL: is a service that provides air transportation for parcels on a space-available basis. It contents. Flat-rate packaging available. is available for Standard Post items not exceeding 30 pounds in weight or 60 inches in length and girth combined. The n Use tape designed for shipping, n Priority – Same as First-Class applicable PAL fee must be paid in addition to the regular surface price for each addressed piece sent by PAL service. using enough to secure the 3 – SAM: parcels are paid at Standard Post prices with maximum weight and size limits of 15 pounds and 60 inches in mail but for items weighing opening and seams of the box. length and girth combined. SAM parcels are first transported domestically by surface and then to overseas destina- n over 13 ounces to 70 pounds. tions by air on a space-available basis. Put newspaper or packing Combined length and girth material in hollow items to limit of 108 inches. Flat-rate against loss or damage up to n Certified – Provides evidence of n Certificate of mailing – Offers avoid damage during transport. packaging available. $5,000, with the price based mailing as well as the date and evidence of the date your mail n Write “fragile” or “perishable” n Express mail military service on the declared value of the time of delivery or attempted was accepted by the post office. on packages when shipping (EMMS) – Offers preferred item(s). delivery. Requires the recipient n Return receipt – Provides proof such items. and/or expedited service. Not n Registered – Offers maximum to sign upon delivery. that an item was delivered, n Use boxes, envelopes and available from all USAFE security, insuring items up to n Delivery confirmation – Shows through a postcard or email tubes the post office provides APOs. $25,000, with the price based when an item was delivered or showing the signature of the for Express Mail and Priority on the declared value of the when delivery was attempted recipient. Mail. Extra services item(s). Tracks movement of using a Track and Confirm tool n Restricted delivery – Specifies n Insurance – Offers coverage mail from beginning to end. you can use on your computer. who can sign for and receive – Military Postal Service Agency A Taste of Okinawa The 3 ‘R’s to good eating – Restaurants, Reviews & Recipes

8-page pullout STRIPES OKINAWA E OF OK NOVEMBER 12 – NOVEMBER 25, 2020 AST INAW A T 2 A The wasabi imitation game 7 Unfortunately, imitation wasabi isn’t limited to the su- permarket. Although the number of Japanese restaurants around the world is increasing, and demand for authentic wasabi is also growing, it’s said that only around 5-10% of restaurants outside of Japan actually serve wasabi made from the actual plant. Many restaurants create an imitation of wasabi with horseradish, mustard, flavoring, etc., along with powdered wasabi. On the one hand, it means it isn’t likely the wasabi you are eating is real, while on 13 curious things you the other if a restaurant says they use real wasabi, then you should really savor it! Not just for never knew about Japan’s 8 Outside of Japan you will commonly see wasabi just with sushi and sashimi, but in Japan you can find it being used in a lot of other dishes. It is a versatile condiment which can be most famous condiment! seen added to soba noodles, to dipping sauces served with yakiniku, wasabi rice bowls, unagi (eel) chazuke, and more. LIVE JAPAN When in Japan be prepared for some wasabi surprises! Wasabi is also a popular condiment for and other meats in Japan. ove it or hate it, wasabi is one of the more well-known condiments served with Japanese cooking, most commonly served with sushi. True wasabi’s flavor disappears L Mixed with soy sauce, or served directly on top of sushi, a little dash of wasabi gives a real spicy kick to raw fish but without leaving an aftertaste. Accord- 9 If you are lucky enough to get your hands on a real wasabi ing to historical records, Japanese people have been adding wasabi to a variety of plant and plan to make some real wasabi paste, then you dishes for over a thousand years, and today it can be found in most restaurants. had better be careful, once you have made it if you leave it It might seem like a dull green condiment, but actually there are a lot of things uncovered then it would lose its flavor after about 15 min- that even Japanese people don’t even know about wasabi! utes. As your wasabi plant is quite precious, and eating real wasabi paste is a treat, you should try only to grate what you need when you need it. This goes for eating at a restaurant serving real wasabi too. If it is real then you need to eat it within 15 minutes or so – don’t let it go to waste! Eating wasabi? You’re likely eating the stem, not the root! 1 When you think of a wasabi plant, the image of a chunk of the dull green plant probably comes to mind. Contrary to Real wasabi lasts quite a long time what you might imagine, however, the part that’s ultimately 10 In contrast to the short life of grated wasabi, the actual was- grated up into the spicy green mass that’s eaten with sushi is abi stem can keep its flavor for months if properly stored. the lower portion of the plant’s stem, and not the root! So, although you should only grate as much as you need when you need it, your wasabi stem, under proper condi- Raw wasabi at the market. Note that the roots have not been removed from the stem, and the leaves are relatively intact. tions, can last for months and be enjoyed again and again. Wasabi is actually something of a cabbage? The Food-Borne supremacy 2 A lot of people tend to think that the wasabi plant is like a 11 Wasabi has a long history of being used to prevent food poi- Japanese version of horseradish, but actually it is an her- soning, and just like Jason Bourne, wasabi has been shown baceous plant (Brassicaceae) which is related to cabbage, capable of wiping out many bad things. Its antibacterial as well as mustard and radish. However, calling it Japanese properties have been shown to be highly effective against E. cabbage doesn’t have quite the same ring to it! coli and other bacteria, which cause food poisoning. Regular consumption of wasabi is perfect for your body’s defenses, and lately, a few pharmaceutical companies have even started using this ingredient Using wasabi to prevent food poisoning in antibacterial creams. 3 Japanese people didn’t start using wasabi on their food to add a bit of spice to it; actually, they discovered that it had The wasabi plant isn’t just about the stem medicinal properties. Eating raw fish or poorly cooked meat Talking about real wasabi might leave you thinking that could lead to food poisoning because of the bugs which were 12 the only useful part of the plant is the stem, but if you have on the food. However, it was believed that adding wasabi to a plant, then you should use all of it, including the leaves. their food helped against illnesses. This was with good rea- These can be eaten pickled (in a dish called “wasabi zuke”) son as it has been discoveredWasabi that wasabi contains a chemical called allyl isothio- or cooked and added to any meal for a little kick, or they can cyanate, now used as an insecticide, and it also has anti-bacterial properties too. be eaten raw. When you visit Japan, definitely give it a go! Pickled wasabi - wasabi zuke - is a traditional food in Shizuoka, made by It is pretty hard to grow wasabi chopping up and salting wasabi roots and stems before pickling the mix in sake lees and seasoning with salt and sugar. 4 As wasabi is served so generously in Japan, you can eas- ily imagine that Japan is covered in fields of wasabi plants Eat a wasabi plant for its nutrition!? alongside rice plants. However, the wasabi plant needs par- 13 By itself, wasabi is a bit pricey, so it isn’t convenient to be ticular conditions to thrive. In the mountainous terrain of eating large amounts every day, but even a little bit will give Japan, its natural habitat is in river valleys, protected from your body some tremendous nutritional boosts. Besides its direct sunlight and with its roots reaching into running un- antibacterial properties and isothiocyanates, it also anti- derground water. Also, it will only grow around 1300 - 2500 meters above sea level inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The leaves and while it won’t thrive if the air temperature is below 8°C or above 20°C. It isn’t a plant stems have a lot of calcium and vitamin C you can just grow in your back garden, and you would have to be pretty determined too. Besides, in addition to being re- to want to grow it commercially. ally good against food poisoning, it is also thought to be useful against allergies, inflamma- Real wasabi is expensive tion, and cancer. 5 Wasabi is challenging to grow, which means that actually, there isn’t a lot of wasabi plants on the market for sale. Just like any product where there is a limited supply and high demand, real wasabi is pretty expensive to buy. On top of this, Japan has been very successful at exporting its cuisine abroad, so in recent years demand for wasabi plants has re- ally ramped up. Outside of Japan, in 2014, a kilo could cost $160, but year on year, the price has increased by up to 10% so that today some restaurants are willing to pay $300 or more for stock. Even in the country, prices for fresh wasabi can be somewhat steep as well.

Wasabi is cheap in supermarkets though! 6 As wasabi is in limited supply and expensive, you are prob- ably wondering why you can easily buy a tube of wasabi for a low price in supermarkets. However, alternative ingredients Courtesy photos have been utilized to replicate the taste of wasabi, without using any actual wasabi. If you want to eat real wasabi you have to check out a specialty shop. NOVEMBER 12 – NOVEMBER 25, 2020 E OF OK STRIPES OKINAWA AST INAW A T 3 A

Eat here, take it out or free delivery! Let Transit Café serve you some tasty drinks and food while you take in the surrounding beauty. Relax and unwind as the blue sky gradually changes into yellow and orange over the never-ending ocean landscape. Spend a momentary “transit” before heading to your next destination. Open every day. Takeout available 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Or stay home and we’ll deliver to you. Call 098-936-5076 for free home delivery on orders over $35.00 (yen or cash only). Must order day in advance. Delivery area limited to Chatan, Kadena, Yomitan, Okinawa City, and Kitanakagusuku. Check out our delivery menu at www.transitcafe-okinawa.com.

RisN’ Shine serves up Apple Pie Smoothie If you are looking for a seasonal sweet treat, stop into Risner Fitness Center on Kadena! RisN’ Shine is featuring an Apple Pie Smoothie for the entire month of November! Conveniently located right inside the main doors of the complex, RisN’ Shine juice bar has protein smoothie options, as well as other nutritious options for a post-workout treat! If you are not fan of frozen drinks, they also have a light lunch menu. Paninis and fruit are featured, as well as granola and other add-ins for a yogurt parfait. Be sure to make RisN’ Shine part of your fitness routine! STRIPES OKINAWA E OF OK NOVEMBER 12 – NOVEMBER 25, 2020 AST INAW A T 4 A Japan Culture Shock Chocolate bananas The most popular sweet item Ranking of street foods in the Land of the Rising Sun

BY FUJICO, LIVE JAPAN

n Japan, one thing you definitely can’t miss have likewise increased as well. out on is street food gourmet! Recently, With such a wide variation in the types of Ithe variety of street food available has in- street food available, which ones are most popu- creased considerably, and the menus available lar amongst foreigners?

Photos courtesy of Live Japan

et’s start from street food sweets! Out of the tens of varieties The least favourite street food sweet is of sweets available, chocolate bananas came in as the most Baby Castella L popular! It’s also ranked as a familiar food item on street Neither too small, Mizuame, food menus. What do foreign visitors find so appealing about chocolate bananas? too big, nor too sweet which many cannot seem to enjoy “Aren’t chocolate and bananas the perfect combination? It’s also colourful and cute!” (Kazakhstan, 10s, Female) “Chocolate bananas will never let you down! This combination is the best.” (Korea, 20s, Female) “With a thick chocolate coating, I like that it feels up my stom- ach. No matter where I eat it the taste is consistent, which is great.” (USA, 20s, Male) With a thick chocolate coating and colourful sprinkles, choc- olate bananas are really photogenic. More than 80% of our re- spondents have eaten chocolate bananas before, and almost all of them expressed their love for it. The perfect pairing of chocolate and bananas is a sentiment shared across borders. Imagawayaki The Japanese street food sweet that

everyone wants to try the most he next most popular street food sweet item izuame, or millet jelly, is another street after chocolate bananas is the baby castella. A food sweet popular amongst foreign visi- T one-bite sweet item that tastes like pancakes, M tors, though many said that they do not it’s found not just at street food stores at festivals, but want to eat it anymore when interviewed. is popular at tourist destinations such as Asakusa as “Mizuame is too sweet! It’s not naturally sweet, well. We hear why foreign visitors like baby castella but just full of sugar. Children will probably enjoy, so much! but I can’t eat it.” (France, 30s, Male) “The size of the baby castella is perfect. It’s just A popular sweet amongst Japan children, this is nice for eating while walking. On top of that, festivals the least popular sweet amongst foreign visitors, be- have many sweet desserts, and the baby castella is cause of its overly sweet taste. As mizuame is con- not too sweet, making it easy for adults to stomach as sidered very sweet even amongst other sweets and well.” (England, 30s, Male) desserts, it’s definitely not for those who don’t like “It’s the perfect sweet to eat when you’re hungry. sweet food. With a familiar rich taste, I immediately fell in love Besides mizuame, there are other street food with it.” (France, teens, Female) sweets that people come to dislike after trying them Baby castella are made of flour, baking powder, out. eggs, sugar, honey, and milk, simple ingredients that “I don’t like imagawayaki. In France, beans usu- hen asked which street food they would like to try combine together to make this wonderful sweet. Its ally aren’t eaten sweet, and I feel some revulsion to the most, the answer that came up is imagawayaki, light sweetness stole the hearts of many foreign visi- eating it. I can’t wrap my head around its sweetness.” W a pancake filled with sweet . What’s tors, making it a hot favourite! (France, 20s, Female) so special about this sweet? Another reason for its popularity is not just the Though the street food sweet that people would “The shape is pretty and seems really tasty! I also love red taste, but the size as well. In contrast to food items most like to try is imagawayaki, there are some who beans.” (France, teens, Female) that fall apart easily as you eat them, this is one food express distaste for it as well. “I haven’t eaten it before, but we have something similar that is easy to eat while walking, and the ability to In Japan, there are many sweets and desserts back in Korea, and it smells really delicious.” (Korea, 20s, share it with others is a definite plus. Wanting to made of sweetened beans, such as sweet red bean, Female) share the feeling of excitement while eating street but there are some foreign visitors who feel some re- “I’ve eaten (fish-shaped pancake stuffed with sweet food with your friends is natural, and this sweet al- luctance to eating sweet beans. Due to the difference red bean paste) before and it was really delicious, and I think lows you to do just that! in food cultures, you can clearly see the difference in imagawayaki looks really great too.” (USA, 20s, Male) food preferences. The main reason for wanting to eat imagawayaki is that it looks delicious. With such a beautiful shape like a taiko drum, it’s easy to be intrigued by it. There are also those who ex- pressed their preference for red beans, and amongst those who have eaten taiyaki before, there are many who expressed the desire to eat imagawayaki. NOVEMBER 12 – NOVEMBER 25, 2020 E OF OK STRIPES OKINAWA AST INAW A T 5 A Japan Culture Shock File photo Ranking of street foods in the Land of the Rising Sun

BY FUJICO, LIVE JAPAN have likewise increased as well. This time, we asked foreigners from six dif- With such a wide variation in the types of ferent countries staying in Japan about their street food available, which ones are most popu- favorite and least favorite street food gourmet lar amongst foreigners? foods and sweets!

Unshakeable popularity! The most unpopular The least favourite street food sweet is Takoyaki Japanese street food: Mizuame, Okonomiyaki Surprisingly has people Corn dogs and which many cannot seem to enjoy is the most popular street food! who do not enjoy it frankfurters

izuame, or millet jelly, is another street ext, we’ll be moving on to street foods! With imilar to okonomiyaki, takoyaki is also one orn dogs and frankfurters are popular not just food sweet popular amongst foreign visi- its pungent aroma greeting you at festivals, of the kings of Japanese street food. Though in Japan, but in other countries as well. How- M tors, though many said that they do not N it’s a street food you usually end up eating S you’d think that there are many foreign visi- C ever, there are many who don’t like to eat them want to eat it anymore when interviewed. anyway, and it’s popular amongst foreign visitors as tors who would enjoy it as well, there were many sur- at street food stores, and we find out why. “Mizuame is too sweet! It’s not naturally sweet, well. prising answers. “Corn dogs and frankfurters are food items that but just full of sugar. Children will probably enjoy, “Of course okonomiyaki! I don’t just eat them at “I can’t eat octopus! Especially in takoyaki, there I can buy from the convenience store just down the but I can’t eat it.” (France, 30s, Male) street food stores, I even go to restaurants just to eat are large pieces of octopus inside, aren’t there? I defi- street. I can easily buy it anywhere, I think it’s better A popular sweet amongst Japan children, this is them too.” (France, 20s, Female) nitely can’t eat it.” (USA, 20s, Male) not to buy it at a street food store.” (Kazakhstan, 10s, the least popular sweet amongst foreign visitors, be- “I like okonomiyaki and Hiroshima yaki (okonomi- Especially amongst westerners, there are many Female) cause of its overly sweet taste. As mizuame is con- yaki cooked in a style unique to Hiroshima). The who don’t like octopus and squid, resulting in a re- “Honestly, I can eat it outside of Japan, I don’t sidered very sweet even amongst other sweets and sauce and pancake batter are a great match, and is sounding distaste for takoyaki. There are many who think of eating it here.” (USA, 20s, Male) desserts, it’s definitely not for those who don’t like very delicious” (Papua New Guinea, 30s, Male) find the slimy-looking texture of octopus unappetiz- Corn dogs and frankfurters are foods that you sweet food. “In Korea, there’s a similar dish to okonomiyaki ing, and they don’t eat it back in their home coun- can easily buy anywhere, and not just at street food Besides mizuame, there are other street food called chijimi (spicy Korean pancake), and it’s a very tries. However, there are some who enjoy it as well! stores. As there are those who usually eat them in sweets that people come to dislike after trying them familiar taste.” (Korea, 20s, Female) “I’ve liked takoyaki since I came to Japan. I often their home countries, they don’t eat them at festivals out. A hot favourite amongst Japanese, okonomiyaki eat it as a snack as well.” (France, 20s, Female) in Japan. “I don’t like imagawayaki. In France, beans usu- is also the most popular street food amongst foreign “I like the combination of ingredients in takoyaki. It’s not unpopular because it’s disgusting, but ally aren’t eaten sweet, and I feel some revulsion to visitors. As Japanese food is also popular the world If you’re in Japan, you definitely must eat it.” (Neth- many feel that there are other foods that they’d much eating it. I can’t wrap my head around its sweetness.” over, there are many people who have eaten oko- erlands, 40s, Female) rather eat instead. (France, 20s, Female) nomiyaki before they even come to Japan. Tempted For foreigners who are used to Japanese food, Though the street food sweet that people would by its fragrance at street food stalls, there are many properly grilled octopus doesn’t seem to be an issue most like to try is imagawayaki, there are some who who end up eating it when they come. for them. There are those who eat it as a snack, and express distaste for it as well. who will definitely eat them at street food stalls. Be- In Japan, there are many sweets and desserts cause of the ingredients of takoyaki, there is a clear made of sweetened beans, such as sweet red bean, divide between those who like and dislike it. but there are some foreign visitors who feel some re- luctance to eating sweet beans. Due to the difference in food cultures, you can clearly see the difference in food preferences.

File photo STRIPES OKINAWA E OF OK NOVEMBER 12 – NOVEMBER 25, 2020 AST INAW A T 6 A Photos courtesy of Live Japan well as offering a number of services, from processing payments, bank trans- Skewered meats and fers, mailing postage, etc.). Of course, 6 other grilled foods they also sell drinks and food. Some of the items you’ll find in a con- bini will be Japanese food, but you can also find a very large selection of sand- wiches, wraps, pasta dishes, chicken, cold cuts, bread, beef dishes, rice dish- es, and so on. Here it’s also where most people go get their onigiri. Although strictly speaking a typical Japanese food, an onigiri is a rice ball, plain or seasoned, simple, or with a filling of fish, or veg- etables, beef, chicken and more (all of this with different seasonings), allow- Regardless of your country of origin, ing for a large range of choices. chances are that you are familiar with Here you can also find pastries, some version of skewered meat. Japan cookies, chips, chocolate and various has its own, called yakitori (lit. grilled No fish for you? different snacks and a wealth of drinks. chicken). Despite what the name sug- gests, yakitori come in many different non-fishy Japanese foods 8 Japanese convenience store chains combinations (chicken, pork, beef, veg- 1. 7-Eleven 5. Circle K Sunkus etables). 2. FamilyMart 6. Ministop Yakitori can be found as street food, you didn’t know existed! 3. Lawson 7. Poplar or in restaurants that serve Japanese 15 food, and especially in traditional Japa- 4. Daily Yamazaki 8. Seicomart Editor’s note: These are uncertain times and this article mentions places to visit nese restaurants called izakaya. in Tokyo, which is currently off-limits. Visit locations of the chain restaurants Oftentimes, places that serve yaki- mentioned near you and always remember to practice proper hand washing and tori have an enormous selection, and social distancing. 4 some of the choices may look a little too unique, but if you don’t feel ad- BY LUCIO MAURIZI, LIVE JAPAN Family restaurants venturous, or you don’t like sauces, 2 or pre-seasoned food, you will always any of us know that Japan is fa- find simple varieties like salt, salt and mous, among other things, also pepper (spicy or mild), and certainly for its food - but what if you something that wouldn’t look or taste aren’tM too fond of it? too “foreign” to you. Surely you shouldn’t feel like avoid- ing your dream vacation to Japan just 9 izakaya chains in Japan for that! 1. Torikizoku 6. Shirokiya While in Japan, you may change 2. Shoya 7. Amataro your mind about Japanese food - after 3. Doma-Doma 8. Torikizoku all, there are so many different things Like everywhere else in the world, 4. Kin no Kura 9. Wara Wara to choose among that are usually not Japan doesn’t lack western fast food 5. Watami available abroad, but in the meantime, chains. You’ll find a McDonald’s or we compiled a list of alternatives to the There’s a kind of eatery in Japan re- Kentucky Fried Chicken virtually any- Yakiniku - Japanese- Japanese dishes you know and may not ferred to as famiresu - short for family where. In larger cities you’ll also find 7 style Korean BBQ like much, that should keep you content restaurant. These restaurants resem- , Wendy’s and a bunch of and full during your stay! ble an American-style diner and have a other fast food chains. very large menu with mostly western- Patrons often say that fast food joints style dishes, from plates to taste better in Japan than they do in Ethnic food restaurants pasta, , different kinds of potatoes, the U.S. or other countries. It’s hard to 1 grilled chicken, a host of salads and so know if it’s true, but this could be your on. They usually also have a very large chance to judge it yourself. dessert menu. Depending on the restaurant they 5 Japanese fast food chains have different selection of dishes (and it’s always a lot of them). 1. 4. Furthermore, they are very easy to 2. MOS Burger 5. find and tend to be quite inexpensive as 3. (burgers) well. Similarly to what we said about ya- kitori, chances are that you’re familiar 8 major family restaurant chains in Japan British-style pubs with grilled food. A very popular type 1. Bamiyan (Chinese) 5 of food in Japan is yakiniku (lit. grilled 2. Denny’s (Diner) meat). Yakiniku is a style of grilling In Japan in general, but especially 3. Jonathan’s (Diner) meat inspired by the Korean one. in Tokyo, you’ll find a large number 4. Royal Host (Diner) Yakiniku restaurants are very com- of restaurants that serve food from all 5. (Italian) mon and you can find places that will over the world. Tokyo is one of the food 6. Pronto (Italian) have an all-you-can-eat menu (you pay capitals of the world, and it’s not so 7. Bikkuri Donkey (Hamburg Steak) a fixed price and you eat all you can only because of the many choices avail- 8. Ikinari Steak (Steak) for 90 minutes, or two hours, usually). able in terms of Japanese food, but also Others will not have an all-you-can-eat- because it’s home to restaurants spe- menu. They tend to be of higher quality cialized in dishes from virtually every Convenience stores and a little pricier. country. 3 Regardless, these restaurants will With not so much research you’ll have a very large selection of meat and be able to find in Tokyo Italian food, These bars usually have quite a veggies that you can choose from, with French, Turkish, Spanish, Portuguese, large selection of pub food, ranging many different seasonings and dipping Brazilian, Indian, Pakistani, Korean, from , to meat dishes, pota- sauces (if desired – otherwise you can Chinese, Greek, and so much more toes, fries, a wealth of finger food - and, keep it as simple as you want to). (pretty much any country you can think of course, fish and chips. Yakiniku restaurants will serve raw of). meat and veggies that you will grill Furthermore, if you have any dietary 5 pub chains in Japan yourself at your table on a gas grill or restriction, in Tokyo you’ll find restau- 1. HUB 4. Hobgoblin on a charcoal grill. rants that serve vegetarian food, vegan, 2. 82 Ale House 5. Rose & Crown While yakiniku is indeed a typical halal, kosher, or gluten-free. Outside 3. Dubliners Japanese dish, it’s no different from major cities, however, the grilled meat from anywhere else in range of choices may di- The whole territory of Japan is lit- the world (assuming that you don’t se- minish. tered with the so called conbini (con- lect typical Japanese cuts, or animal Where to catch the game in Search for ethnic restaurants in venience stores). These are 24/7 stores Japan? 4 popular sports bars in parts, or traditional Japanese sea- Tokyo that sell a little bit of everything (as Tokyo sonings). NOVEMBER 12 – NOVEMBER 25, 2020 E OF OK STRIPES OKINAWA AST INAW A T 7 A Search for yakiniku depending on what kind of tempura it comfort zone. restaurants Japan is famous for its seafood. For is, making it accessible to anyone, re- this reason, many visitors think that the gardless of their passion for Japanese 3 tonkatsu chains in Japan largest majority of Japanese dishes is food (or lack thereof). 1. Saboten Noodles based on fish. This can be quite trou- 2. Wako 8 blesome for those who don’t really like 3. Maisen seafood, or fish in general. 12 Rice bowls Actually, though, Japanese dishes are equally divided among fish and Cafes meats (probably leaning more towards 14 the meats part). One thing that is ever- present, though is vegetables. Side dishes, main dishes, snacks, and on-the-go meals, are often based on vegetables. You’ll find dishes of grilled, boiled, raw, or steamed veggies almost anywhere you go. Very much part of Japanese diet, Surely you know of , a very they are very easy to find, and they popular Japanese noodle widely con- rarely have a very distinctive Japa- sumed also in its “instant” variety. nese-style flavor to them. A common misconception about Jap- Unlike what you may find abroad, Some dishes you should try, are: anese food, among those who have nev- er visited Japan, is that a lot of the food though, ramen in Japan is offered in Edamame: Soybeans served boiled, If you really don’t know where else that populates Japanese culinary tradi- a plethora of different flavors, soups, steamed, or raw, with or without salt. to go, don’t forget there are thousands tion is “very Japanese”, meaning that and hot or cold. Even if you’re not a fan Pickled cucumber or okra: Usually of cafes serving drinks, cakes, sand- it’s something that you’d enjoy only if of Japanese flavors, chances are that served as an appetizer, these are light, wiches, pastries and more. you have acquired a particular taste for there will be some kind of ramen that flavorful, and not too adventurous dish- Most Japanese cafes are quite simi- certain flavors. agrees with your personal tastes. es. lar to one another. If you’re looking for In reality, while in part this may be Furthermore, Japanese noodles are Namatsu: Kind of salad made with something particularly familiar, then true, the vastest majority of Japanese not limited to ramen. On the contrary raw veggies and sweetened vinegar. you may be right at home within one of dishes are accessible and easy to eat there are a huge number of different Potato Salad: Yep, Japan is indeed the many . for anyone, regardless of their cultural kinds of noodles you’d be able to enjoy. really big on potato salad. Chances are If you want to try something new, but background. Each one of them has many sub-catego- you’re already familiar with some form without drifting too far away from the A prime example of this is the many ries. Some of the most popular are of potato salad, but even if you’re not, familiar, try one of these! and soba. it’s a very accessible flavor. dishes “over-rice” you’ll find in Japan. These are dishes of white rice, topped Once again, the choice is seemingly There are many vegetable dishes in 13 Japanese cafe chains in Japan limitless, as you can find noodles served . Some more unique, with beef, pork, veggies, or chicken in a 1. Doutor 8. St. Marc Cafe with a number of soups (or without), others more familiar to variety of seasonings and flavors. 2. Excelsior Cafe 9. Kohikan with meat, fish, veggie, or bland soup or foreigners. Try a few. Usually they are meant to be a one- 3. Pronto flavoring, all kinds of toppings and side dish-meal. If you don’t like rice, this 10. Komeda’s Coffee 4. Caffe Veloce dishes that are very accessible even is obviously not a good choice for you, 11. Cafe Colorado Viva vegan in Japan! 4 mouth- 5. Moriva Coffee (and especially) if you are not a fan of watering vegan restaurants to but otherwise, you don’t need to be too 12. WIRED CAFE 6. Ginza Renoir Japanese food. visit in Tokyo adventurous to find something you like 13. Miyama Coffee (for example you can go for a topping 7. Cafe de Crie of grilled beef, or teriyaki chicken, or Fried chicken Fried foods and steamed vegetables). 9 11 tempura 15 Desserts 5 rice bowl chains in Japan 1. 4. Tenya 2. Matsuya 5. Nakau 3. Sukiya 13 Tonkatsu

Save dietary restrictions, most people Japan is really big on sweets. You like fried chicken. We covered fried chicken, but, as can find the uniquely Japanese tradi- Japan is famous for its version of it, healthy as Japanese cuisine usually is, tional desserts (called ), or a karaage. Don’t get thrown off by its very it is also big on fried dishes. number of desserts and cakes based on Japanese name, though. While karaage is In supermarkets, conbini, and res- chocolate, vanilla, custard, fruit, dif- one of the most popular dishes in Japan, taurants, you’ll often find a host of fried ferent creams, ice cream, and so much its name simply distinguishes it from its chicken, alongside lightly or deep fried more. counterparts from the rest of the world. vegetables, seafood, fish, potatoes, You could theoretically try a differ- Karaage can come in the simplest of sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and more. Tonkatsu is a deep-fried pork ent kind of sweet for every meal, and forms, or with flavoring of cheese, soy Once again, what you eat greatly that you can enjoy as is or with a par- you won’t eat the same one twice dur- sauce, spicy or mild (and more depend- depends on your personal tastes. You ticular sauce. Tonkatsu is served on its ing your stay in Japan. ing on the place serving it). won’t have to try something that tastes own or as a topping for other dishes. If you want to have some more in- For those who have not acquired a too unique to you, unless you choose to. Like some other dishes in this list, sight on Japanese sweets, taste for “too Japanese tasting” dishes, There is such a large variety of possible tonkatsu is a staple of Japanese cui- look at the link below! karaage is a sure shot that dishes that you’ll surely find something sine, but especially by itself, it’s a rela- makes all Japanese food that you already know you’re going to tively simple and very flavorful dish lovers and non agree. like. that you’re going to love if you’re look- Colorful, crazy, and kawaii: To- Furthermore, you can try tempura. kyo’s top 6 sweets and desserts Japanese food fight! 8 similar ing for something that won’t push your that we can’t get enough of! fried dishes Tempura is as Japanese as Japanese food comes, but don’t despair. Tempura refers to a particular way There you have it! Vegetables 10 of frying food coated in a unique dough. Whether you like Japanese food or not, you’ll have plen- The most famous tempura, at least ty of options to choose from during your stay in Japan. abroad, is usually shrimp, but tempu- Food here is part of the culture, but it’s only a segment of ra actually comes also as mushrooms, the many things you’ll probably love when you visit. eggplants, carrots, bamboo, chicken, If you’re searching around and still not finding exactly or lotus root (and much more), and it’s what you would like to eat, why not give a human a try! served with either salt, or a dipping Located in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Fukuoka, Gurunavi’s sauce, or both. Restaurant Information Centers have multi- If you’re not a fan of Japanese food, lingual concierges who are happy to help you find some- tempura can easily be a good alter- thing yummy to fill you up. native to all the items in the list. Its crunchy and flavorful texture is its staple, but the flavor changes a lot View Map View Map STRIPES OKINAWA E OF OK NOVEMBER 12 – NOVEMBER 25, 2020 AST INAW A T 8 A

STORY AND PHOTOS BY YUKARI SAKAMOTO, in water to get rid of the “off” aroma NOU METROPOLIS MAGAZINE before being added into the nabe. Dipping sauces can be purchased R here is something very or made at home. If you’re not feeling I comforting about sitting like the traditional ponzu, gomadare S Taround a bubbling hot pot (a creamy sesame dressing) is just as with friends and family. Often easy to find. Fun condiments like yuzu H rich with a variety of veg- kosho, a salty chili paste, can also add etables, hot pots are also another dimension to the meal. N very nourishing. A nabe Mizutaki, a chicken-based nabe, is a A I (Japanese hot pot) is popular recipe to get started with. Add N an easy meal to put B water and a piece of kombu (a variety of Try ma on the table with a kelp) into your pot, then let this simmer kin simple clean-up, g E while preparing the ingredients. Cut yo G as it is a one-pot some boneless chicken into bite-size ur meal. Some famous pieces. Cut hakusai, leeks and momen o styles include su- (firm) tofu into similar-sized cubes. w kiyaki, shabu-shabu, Slice carrots into thin leaves. Break n or chankonabe (known down mushrooms like shimeji or shii- as the sumo wrestler’s meal). take into smaller pieces. Turn off the h These dishes can be found in res- heat on your konro, remove the kombu o taurants, but cooking nabe at home is and add the ingredients to the pot. Put t really a breeze and recently there has the lid on and boil until the chicken is even been a trend of hitori nabe (hot cooked through. While the ingredients p pot for solo diners) — so don’t let that are cooking, skim off any scum as it o hold you back from getting started. has bitter flavors. Dip the cooked veg- t Keeping in mind that there are a etables and chicken in ponzu before few guidelines but no set rules for eating. a cooking nabe, here are some ba- The broth should be well seasoned t sics to get you started. by this point. Once you’ve finished all The most essential equip- the vegetables and meat, add some pre- ment are the konro (tabletop h cooked noodles or rice to the soup. If butane gas stove) and hot pot. you like, scramble an egg into the hot o The size of the pot should be rice porridge. Taste and add salt if nec- m determined by the number essary. of people you are cooking Another simple hot pot is buta-kim- e for. There are many styles chi, made with thin-sliced pork belly, ! of hot pots but to get start- kimchi, kinu (soft) tofu and shimeji ed, a donabe (clay pot) is mushrooms. Finish the pot with haru- the most versatile. Do note same rice noodles. A vegetarian mush- that it needs to be sea- room hot pot could be made with tofu, soned with rice before us- a variety of mushrooms, hakusai and ing for the first time. shungiku. When you’re thinking of Once you get the hang of things you what to put in it, for pro- can get creative and make your own teins, consider: chicken, original hot pot. As mentioned, these sliced pork belly, beef, fish are your guidelines: cut proteins into (like cod or salmon) or bite-size pieces; slice harder vegeta- shellfish; ground chicken bles like carrots into thin slices; softer or pork can be formed into vegetables like hakusai can be cut into ; even frozen gyo- bigger pieces. za could be your protein. There are two resourceful cookbooks For vegetables, use a wide on hot pots. Japanese Hot Pots: Com- variety including , forting One-Pot Meals by Tadashi Ono hakusai (Napa cabbage), car- and Harris Salat (Ten Speed Press) is rots, shungiku (edible chrysan- filled with classic Japanese hot pot reci- themum), komatsuna (Japanese pes. Donabe: Classic and Modern Japa- mustard spinach), mushrooms, nese Clay Pot Cooking by Naoko Moore leeks or cabbage; and use mush- and Kyle Connaughton (Ten Speed rooms such as enoki, shiitake, and Press) includes hot pot recipes as well shimeji. Shirataki (chewy konnyaku as a plethora of recipes for cooking in noodles) add a nice texture, but check a variety of donabe pots like a smoker, the package as some need to be boiled steamer and rice pot. If you’re just getting started con- sider getting a cheaper pot and test the waters before splurging on a donabe.

Shimeji

Konro Komatsuna

Hakusai

Pork