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COVID-19 Has Changed Everything, but Stripes Is Still Here For

VOLUME 7 NO. 18 SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 SUBMIT STORIES TO: @STRIPES.COM STRIPESJAPAN.COM FACEBOOK.COM/STRIPESPACIFIC FREE INSIDE INFO

ChiHon from

ZAMA BIDS FAREWELL TO MILITARY WORKING DOG PAGES 2-3

BELOVED YOKOTA CASHIER DEPARTS COMMISSARY Shoji PAGE 4 from Okinawa Hiro from Yokosuka

CELEBRATE THE RISE OF JAPAN’S RAILWAYS ON OCT. 14 PAGES 6-7 COVID-19 has changed everything, but Stripes is still here for you JAPANESE DISHES YOU MUST TRY AT BY DENISSE RAUDA, butter — but how do we write about plac- LEAST ONCE! STRIPES JAPAN PAGES 12-13 es we can no longer visit or are no longer he Stripes community paper office safe to visit? It’s easy — we don’t. has been empty since April. Yet, Like you, we’re no longer dining out at T the designers who layout the ar- restaurants. We’ve traded in our cubicles, LIKE US ON ticles in the newspaper, the team who up- travel assignments, and restaurant re- FACEBOOK dates the websites, and your writing team views for workstations at home, recipes are still as busy as ever. in the kitchen with our families, and get- Like you, our daily life and our daily ting creative with bringing you a break work life have changed. Though our writ- from the hard news we’re constantly get- ing team, spread out in Okinawa, Korea ting bombarded with. and in Japan, is used to working togeth- We’re looking for ways to keep you (and er, but apart, what we write about had to ourselves, too) entertained. Some of us change quickly and drastically. Travel have taken our acting and camera skills and restaurant reviews are our bread and SEE COVID-19 ON PAGE 8 FACEBOOK.COM/STRIPESPACIFIC 2 STRIPES JAPAN A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020

Max D. Lederer Jr. Publisher Lt. Col. Richard E. McClintic Commander Joshua M Lashbrook Chief of Staff STORY AND PHOTOS BY WINIFRED BROWN, Chris Verigan US ARMY GARRISON Engagement Director Marie Woods CAMP ZAMA – The soldiers of the 901st Military Po- Publishing and Media Design Director lice Detachment (Military Working Dog) held a re- Chris Carlson Publishing and Media Design Manager tirement ceremony for Sgt. 1st Class Vito here Sept. Eric Lee 17, praising him for his nearly nine years of dedi- Advertising and Circulation Manager Zama bids catedfarewell service to the Army as a military to working dog. Monte Dauphin Vito, a Belgian Malinois who served as a Patrol Japan Area Manager Kentaro Shimura Explosive Detector Dog and deployed to Qatar and Production Manager Iraq, will spend the rest of his days at “Fort Couch”— Rie Miyoshi Vito, military slangworking for a place to relax—in Custer, dog South Dakota. Engagement Manager “He’s definitely earned it,” said Capt. Amie Young, Denisse Rauda Publishing and Media Design Editor the detachment’s commander, at the ceremony. “I’m Publishing and Media Design Writers glad that he made it back from deployment OK and ChiHon Kim he was able to make it back and get retired. He’s a Shoji Kudaka Takahiro Takiguchi very sweet dog and definitely made his mark and did Layout Designers his job in the Army for several years.” Mamoru Inoue Spc. Jericho Arengo, Vito’s handler for more than Yukiyo Oda Yuko Okazaki two years, said his stepfather and mother, the “com- Kayoko Shimoda manders” at Vito’s new home, are adopting him, and Multimedia Consultants Max Genao Doug Johnson he looks forward to seeing Vito again when he is Brian Jones Jason Lee home on leave. Hans Simpson Chae Pang Yi Gianni Youn Robert Zuckerman Fort Couch is a coveted assignment among all Graphic Designers military working dogs, Arengo said, including Vito. Kenichi Ogasawara Yosuke Tsuji “He’s retiring, and he loves naps, and therefore a Sales Support couch is a perfect place for any dog,” he said. Kazumi Hasegawa Hiromi Isa Ichiro Katayanagi Yoko Noro Vito should have plenty of years left to enjoy his Yusuke Sato Saori Tamanaha retirement, Arengo said. Toshie Yoshimizu Un Chong Yu “As older dog, you would think that he would For feedback and inquiries, contact [email protected] slow down, and you’ll see every now and again that To place an ad, call DSN 227-7370 age is coming up to him, but there are some days stripesjapan.com/contact Spc. Jericho Arengo pets Vito at his retirement ceremony on Sept. 17. where you wouldn’t think he’s 11 years old,” SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES JAPAN 3

Arengo, left, and Staff Sgt. Antonio Razo with Vito. Arengo relaxes with Vito. Vito relaxes after his retirement ceremony.

Arengo said. “He acts like to duty and professionalism a puppy, running around, contributed significantly to the still chasing tennis balls, sprint- detachment’s overall success. ing as fast as he can.” His performance is in keeping Arengo said he has enjoyed with the finest traditions of the working with Vito while they Military Police Corps and re- were stationed together at flect great credit upon himself, Camp Zama, and considers him- the 901st Military Police De- self fortunate to have deployed tachment, U.S. Army Garrison to Iraq with him. Unfortunately, Japan and the U.S. Army.” however, Vito’s After he re- back gave out dur- ceived the medal, ing the deploy- Vito barked as ev- ment. “He’s a very eryone clapped. Arengo, who “We had to come sweet dog and back from our de- joined the Army ployment early, definitely made about three years and that’s what his mark and did ago and has been a military work- made the vets de- his job in the cide to retire him,” ing dog handler Arengo said. Army for several for more than two, thanked his fellow In addition to years.” soldiers for their soldiers from the support. 901st MP Det., Lt. – Capt. Amie Young “I was very Col. Demetrick fortunate for all Thomas and Com- of your advice on mand Sgt. Maj. Ed- how to be better gar Rodriguez, command team with Vito and also for giving me of the 35th Combat Sustainment the trust with Vito in going to Support Battalion, as well as Iraq,” Arengo said. “I couldn’t soldiers from the Camp Zama ask for a better team.” Veterinary Treatment Facility, Sgt. 1st Class Luis Berber, attended. the detachment’s kennel mas- Vito received the Army Com- ter, told the audience that Vito mendation Medal during the has had a good career in the ceremony, signed by Col. Thom- Army, and he wishes him all the as Matelski, commander, U.S. best in his remaining years. Army Garrison Japan. “Thank you, Vito,” Berber In part, the certificate read: said. “Thank you for all you’ve “Sgt. 1st Class Vito’s dedication done.” 4 STRIPES JAPAN A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020

BY THERON GODBOLD, “I just said something to this little girl, and STARS AND STRIPES she took a liking to me,” he recalled fondly. “Af- ter that, every time the family would come into or the past six years, retired gunnery ser- the commissary, she would look for me and we geant Bruce Merritt brought smiles to chil- just built a bond.” Fdren and their parents visiting Yokota Air In 2015, Merritt saw that the commissary Base’s Commissary. Sept. 16 was the 61-year-old didn’t have anything special set up for April’s cashier’s final day checking groceries, much to Month of the Military Child, so he made room the chagrin of commissary patrons. in his checkout line for a little helper. “Mr. Bruce was the highlight of our commis- “This little girl came in with her family and sary trips,” said Yokota spouse Patricia Brandon. she was kind of upset, so I asked the family if I “HeB alwayseloved made us smile and took Yokota care of us, could have her cashierhelp scan the items,” he said. “It we will definitely miss seeing him at the commis- was the happiest I had ever seen the little girl.” sary.” The child’s mother took a video Merritt, who was quick with EXCLUSIVE NEWS FROM: and posted it to a local Facebook smiles departsand kind words, had to commissarygroup. After that, Merritt said he leave his job at the commissary often noticed that his line would due to the Department of De- be the longest because kids want- fense’s Five-Year Rule. Estab- ed help him ring up the groceries lished in 1966, the rule limits civilian DOD em- or just talk to him. ployees hired in the to five years “Many military kids don’t have relatives or of continuous overseas service before they must loved ones near, and he became the surrogate return to the U.S. ‘Commissary Grandpa’ to them all,” said Jaclyn Merritt came to Yokota in July 2014 because Escalera. “He was someone who took the time to the C-130’s reminded him of his younger broth- teach them and show them that they are impor- er, who had died in a plane crash. tant.” “I chose Yokota because of that airplane, Merritt isn’t done with Yokota. He might not the C-130, I just feel like every time I see that be able to work for the commissary anymore as a plane,” the Lynch Station, Va., native said. “I’m DOD civilian, but he is currently looking for a job closer to my brother.” on base as a contractor or as a non-appropriated During his first year at the commissary, Mer- funds employee. ritt said he was relatively reserved until a little “This is my family,” Merritt said matter-of- girl came through his checkout line with her factly. “They’ll see me again.” mother, sparking a friendship. Courtesy photos SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES JAPAN 5

raditional Japanese designs, or Wagara, are a type of pat- tern peculiar to Japan. Meanings behind Japan’s T The most well known of these take a single design and create patterns by placing the design systematically on fabric. They’re mostly used for , packaging, and other goods and sundries, but not only are they ultra cute - they also have traditional patterns serious meanings behind them! – Live Japan

Wave crest Hemp leaf Tortoise shell Fletching Folding

- Seigaiha - Asanoha - Kikkou - Yagasuri fan - Uchiwa

This design is made of This pattern was named This pattern is made of This pattern is based on A pattern made to look rows of ocean waves form- after its resemblance to a a bunch of tortoise shell arrow fletching. like an opened folding fan. ing a fan-shaped pattern. hemp leaf. shapes. It is used as a lucky Fans stand for develop- It symbolizes the desire It is connected to the Tortoises have long been charm for weddings and ment and prosperity. for continued peaceful liv- ideas of growth and chil- a symbol of longevity, so other ceremonies, as it is ing, like the tranquil waves. dren’s health, since hemp is this pattern is also a based on the Japanese say- durable and grows quickly. for long life. ing that, once an arrow is fired, it never returns.

Your friends might be pleasantly surprised to get wrapping cloth or a towel as a sou- venir using a pattern that stands for something they like. Illustrations courtesy of de Japan 6 STRIPES JAPAN A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020

Shimbashi Station 1900 Photo courtesy of The Library

Celebrate rise of Japan’s railways Oct. 14 STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAVID KRIGBAUM, using a force of British civil engineers and Japanese WWW.WAYFARERDAVES.COM laborers. Laying a single track line over flat terrain with no obstacles and one river to cross was supposed apan’s favorite way to travel has its own special to be straightforward and simple, but there were dif- day on October 14. Railway Day, or Tetsudo no ficulties along the way with land rights, quality con- JHi, is a celebration of the railroads and is also trol, miscommunication and overcoming the learning the anniversary of the opening of the country’s first curve for railway construction. railroad. It took two and a half years and cost far more than Linking and , the first railway was expected, but on Oct. 14, 1872, Japan’s first railway an 18 mile stretch of track. At the time Yokohama opened to great fanfare. Emperor and dignitar- was a treaty port, one of the few places foreign goods ies rode the inaugural trip from could be brought into the country, and ironically, in Tokyo to and back. Onlookers its location was chosen in part because its distance kneeled as the train passed through the only four in- would keep foreigners away from the capital. The termediary stations along the way and warships fired track ensured that now they could be transported in. salutes as it approached Yokohama. The emperor de- The railway was government-owned but the un- clared the railway open in Yokohama. dertaking was instigated, funded and led by the Brit- It’s worth noting that while this was the “official” Shinagawa, the stop before Shimbashi, had been ish. Surveying began on Apr. 25, 1870 and work began opening, limited train service from Yokohama to ongoing since June 12. The delay in completing SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES JAPAN 7

SEE TOP 10 FEATURES OF JAPAN TRAINS ON PAGE 14 Old Shimbashi Station

Shimbashi Station 1911 Photo courtesy of The National Diet Library

the track lay with the army’s refusal to Station became the current Shimbashi Station. In allow the railway to run through their 2003, a reproduction of old Shimbashi Station was grounds causing the line to have to be built built over the foundation of the original, though a around it. The army was opposed to the construction beautiful representation, like most modern repro- of railways. ductions, it lacks the character of the Victorian struc- Despite even the lowest class fare, Lower Class ture. Old Shimbashi Station: Zero Point (later Third Class), costing more than a month’s This is an important site for Japanese rail fans as worth of rice or a steamer trip between the cities, the it is the original “Zero Point” for railway travel and railroad surprisingly attracted a lot of working-class tracks from the original railway line are in place be- riders early on. In its first full year of operations 1.2 side the platform; part of the original station foun- million passengers rode the train. Today 17.9 million dation and steps are also exposed for viewing. Sadly, people ride trains in Japan every day. the new building itself is a façade; the interior is in- Though much has changed over the past 150 years, distinguishable from any other modern structure and a decision in the railway’s construction still defines mostly taken up with an eatery though there is a two Japanese railways to this day. The original railway room museum (no English) with smaller station arti- used “Cape Gauge,” 3-foot-6-inch wide tracks in- facts that is complimentary to seeing the rail- stead of the now-standard gauge of 4-foot-8.5-inches. way history on display outside. The museum Old Shimbashi Station: Steps There’s no specific known reason why they went with is free. the narrower gauge, but it was possibly due to Ja- Another vestige of the old Shimbashi Sta- pan’s mountainous terrain and as a cost saving mea- tion is cultural. If you’ve ever enjoyed shop- sure. ping for high-end goods and drinking at the Nishiyama Wa- Other tangible elements of the early railroad can cafes in , you can thank Shimbashi Sta- terworks. be found at “old” Shimbashi Station, which until To- tion. The hip district was rebuilt the same Locomotive kyo Station was built in 1914, was the original gate- year the train line opened and due to its No. 1, which way to “Tokio.” The station and its near twin at the proximity to the station had its modern brick served on the other end of the line, Yokohama Station, were the shops stocked with the latest Western goods, first railway, works of Yokohama-based Anglo-American architect leading to its financial success and introduc- is currently on R.P. Bridgens. Sadly both structures, built the same ing the pastime of “window shopping” to Ja- Old Shimbashi Station: Rails display at the year to nearly the same plans, would meet the same pan. Railway Muse- fate on the same day as they were destroyed on Sept. Yokohama Station has moved twice and the um in Saitama, 1, 1923 during the Great Kanto Earthquake. original station location is now Sakuragicho Station, Though by 1923, old Shimbashi Station’s day had which is near many historic sites and the Cosmo Clock though its appearance has changed due to modifica- passed. After opened, the old station 21, the giant light-up Ferris wheel on the bay. There tions made in 1890. which regularly saw visits by the emperor, diplomats is a memorial to the first railway near the station. The Though the original structures are gone, trains and dignitaries was relegated to a freight terminal only remaining piece of the original Yokohama Sta- still reign supreme in Japan. And, Oct. 14 marks the and renamed Station. Nearby Karasumori tion is its water fountain, now displayed at Yokohama start of it all. 8 STRIPES JAPAN A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 COVID-19: Looking for ways to keep you entertained

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 seriously and started creating fun vid- eos to teach you Japanese and Korean phrases. We’ve found online activities Shoji for you to try and used our Netflix time from wisely to figure out what recommenda- Okinawa tions you might have missed on Korea or Japan’s streaming services. For a while, our paper stopped print- ing and relied on our four community sites to make sure you never missed a beat and there was always something interesting for you to read or watch. Every day, as the situation is changing in Cooking brings humor, happiness Patience, family and technology the Pacific both STORY AND PHOTOS BY comical relief, the doughnuts themselves STORY AND PHOTOS BY on base and off, SHOJI KUDAKA turned out much better than expected. TAKAHIRO TAKIGUCHI Taking a bite, my mother just said, “Wow, you can trust that f asked about how I feel about my s COVID-19 rapidly spread this is good.” work-from-home days, I would have throughout the country, I began we’re looking out The donuts were just the start of try- a hard time finding something posi- teleworking just after I had taken I ing new recipes. Since then, I’ve cooked A for what informa- tive to say because I like going to work. a stroll around Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, at least once a week, trying my hand at However, looking back at my life during Ueno Park and other sites seeking out tion you need. Ev- Okinawan recipes like rafute, hirayachi, the last five months, there were things I photos and material for a story on the brown sugar crepes, and even an Italian ery day, we’re mon- would not have done unless I had stayed gorgeous cherry blossoms then at full restaurant classic — Pasta pomodoro. itoring what the at home. bloom in late March. For me, it’s been a learning experi- Before the pandemic, I hardly cooked My cherry blossom story would have parameters are and ence. And while it’s been the source of at home. I’d had enough to wait until next year, as I was working how we can get out of instant noodles, and laughter for my mom, it’s from home and all of our readers were also seemed to make her and enjoy the nice that moved me to make also limited on leaving their bases or off- something on my own. happy. Cooking has also base homes. weather, all while It was in early May and become a topic I can turn Teleworking has saved me from my doing it safely and with Mother’s Day com- to when I struggle with twice-daily 2.5-hour commute on packed ing up, I chose Andagi, an my writing assignments or trains from Yokosuka to Tokyo and back. within the regula- Okinawan donut, for my finding something to share Being out of the office, away from my co- tions set forth by first attempt at cooking a with the audience. As I workers and the hustle and bustle from recipe in quarantine. As tried different recipes, it Tokyo, however, has been a leadership. a child, my mother would started feeling like a fun challenge on my daily rou- Despite the make this snack for me often hobby for me. Now I say to tine and in finding story myself “Why not continue changes, and making it for her around ideas. this special day was fitting. cooking beyond COVID-19?” The state of emergency know that Whether American or Although my feelings to- earlier this year meant our mission Okinawan style, a donut ward work from home stays most popular annual spring is a donut and the recipe the same, cooking showed events were canceled, while remains the seemed easy enough. View video! me there’s always a way to restaurants and attractions same, COV- Once I started rolling the Okinawan doughnuts have fun. And it would be were closed or had limited dough into donut holes great if the audience feels hours. My focus (and my ID-19 or not. like Dunkin’ Donuts’ the same. writing) had to shift to other This is your Munchkins, however, is where I ran These days, I often think about tour- activities, so I turned to Japanese cul- into difficulties. ing big cities such as Tokyo and , ture and traditional crafts, seasonal top- paper you’re As I struggled with the sticky dough taking photos of skyscrapers and streets ics and spending time with my wife and holding, (or your that refused to budge from its amorphous lined with Izakaya. Most likely, it will be daughter. state, my mother who had been watching a while before that becomes possible. In April, as face masks began to sell website, if you’re me curiously, started to laugh. Her laugh However, it seems to be fun at least to out in stores, I observed as my wife used reading online) and all of became even louder when I struggled wait for the time to come while cooking instructions she found online to hand- our publications, including our with frying the dough. Although my slap- or . stitch masks for our family. So, I wrote stick cooking hardly failed to provide [email protected] about that. I also turned the camera on Welcome to the Pacific, Best of Pacific and Destination Paradise magazines, are yours. Have a story you want to see in the paper? Send it to us! That hasn’t changed. We’re here for you and be- cause of you. So, read on and learn about what your writing team is doing to make sure these pages are filled and you’re still getting the information you want. And, if you have a story idea or want to write something, drop us a note! We’re in this together! [email protected] SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES JAPAN 9 COVID-19: Looking for ways to keep you entertained

Hiro from Yokosuka

ChiHon from Korea

Patience, family and technology Looking at the bright side of life

STORY AND PHOTOS BY STORY AND PHOTOS BY to return to some form of normal. But my TAKAHIRO TAKIGUCHI CHIHON KIM happiness was short-lived when, in July, the numbers started to go up and bases s COVID-19 rapidly spread hough there are only a few months around the peninsula retightened restric- throughout the country, I began left in 2020, I can still say this will tions. Once again, I’m experiencing deja teleworking just after I had taken probably the year that started with A T vu in March due to mass infection in Seoul. a stroll around Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, a virus and will end with one. What started On a personal level, my life has changed Ueno Park and other sites seeking out as a faraway virus over in that we as I turned towards my fitness and started photos and material for a story on the all thought wouldn’t be a big deal, quick- cycling in my apartment. Originally, this gorgeous cherry blossoms then at full ly spread to , then onto other was supposed to get me ready to cycle bloom in late March. countries and, well, you know the rest of around Korea for some stories I wanted to My cherry blossom story would have the story. write, but as staying at home was looking to wait until next year, as I was working Despite how COVID-19 came into in- from home and all of our readers were trude on all of our daily lives, my fellow like a longer-term necessity, indoor cycling also limited on leaving their bases or off- writers and I remained focused on con- on my home setup has become a way to base homes. tinuing to provide the stories you want to keep social distance and a stress relief. Teleworking has saved me from my read. From disaster, we drew inspiration I also started cooking at home more. I twice-daily 2.5-hour commute on packed and from all the things we wished we could tried recipes of foods that I like to eat when trains from Yokosuka to Tokyo and back. do — like travel and go out to eat at res- I go to restaurants or even ramdon, a rec- Being out of the office, away from my co- taurants — we figured out ways to not let ipe from the award-winning film Parasite. workers and the hustle and bustle from go of that feeling. Our team had to work in These were challenging but the results Tokyo, however, has been a a new way, and we had to get were delicious, and I used challenge on my daily rou- creative. these to write stories for the tine and in finding story A new project we started audience who, like me, were ideas. myself and began, along was our Virtual Vacation se- stuck at home trying new The state of emergency with my fellow writers, to ries, which allowed me to take recipes. earlier this year meant film short videos to teach you on my previous trips and And also, like many of you, most popular annual spring Japanese phrases for our through some of my travel when I was bored, I turned events were canceled, while Speakin’ Japanese arti- photos. We also started shar- to Netflix. In May and June, restaurants and attractions View video! cles online. I began to sort ing some easy phrases in our View video! I wrote a few lists of Korean were closed or had limited through travel photos and, native languages. I started films and dramas you should Speakin’ Japanese Free fallin’ check out. I recommend tak- hours. My focus (and my Let’s try on-nomi using my iPhone, began and continue to share use- Let’s jump out of writing) had to shift to other producing travel videos for ful phrases on our Facebook a perfectly fine airplane! ing a look at these lists, espe- activities, so I turned to Japanese cul- our Virtual Vacation series. page in my Speakin’ Korean cially if you’re over re-watch- ture and traditional crafts, seasonal top- With the help of my family, I wrote videos. ing The Office or Friends. ics and spending time with my wife and about the crafts we were making to- For a short while in the summer, while Truth is, I am trying to overcome this daughter. gether, like origami and tanabata deco- South Korea seemed to have a grasp on situation with joy by looking at the bright In April, as face masks began to sell rations. My daughter, whose hobby is coronavirus cases thanks to lessons learned side of being safe and still being able to out in stores, I observed as my wife used photography, helped illustrate some of from previous SARS and MERS outbreaks, write with a different goal in mind. I don’t instructions she found online to hand- my stories and videos with great images. I was able to write travel stories again. Mil- know when this will end, but don’t forget stitch masks for our family. So, I wrote itary families could travel again, while tak- that Stars and Stripes is always with you. about that. I also turned the camera on SEE FAMILY ON PAGE 10 ing necessary precautions and I was happy [email protected] 10 STRIPES JAPAN A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020

by Shoji Kudaka by Takahiro Takiguchi by ChiHon Kim

View video! View page! View page! Try Hirayachi, Okinawa’s Getting crafty with the family 5 Korean snacks you have to try take on

View page! View video! View video! Monsters, gangsters, Virtual vacation: Hawaii Virtual vacation: Seoul karate fighters, oh my! Top 5 Okinawa-related flicks to stream now

View video! View page! View video! Speakin’ Japanese Japan’s favorite poop museum Speakin’ Korean goes online Be typhoon-ready! Finding a mask and hand sanitizer

FAMILY: A team effort at home

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 plentiful. They weren’t physically together, but it was a wonderful celebration. Now, online chatting My work quickly became a family affair. with her mother and sisters in the morning has be- I also noticed how, despite being far apart, technol- come a part my wife’s daily routine. These events ogy was helping us stay together. Besides our weekly inspired me a lot and gave me some nice story ideas. Skype work meetings to discuss what the staff is The past five months where COVID-19 upended working on; I have connected with my coworkers for our lives were definitely a struggle for me, but it on-nomi (online drinking party) after hours several also gave me the great opportunity to rediscover the times throughout this work-from-home period. Other events moved online for us, too. Like Moth- importance of warm hearts, love, affection and con- er’s Day. My wife sat down in front of her computer sideration amongst family and friends. Among them and celebrated the special day with her 100-year- and by far the most, I feel it was my family that kept old mom and two sisters in the Philippines, as well me alive, enabled me to work at home and have kept as her two other sisters on Guam and in the States. me in good shape, both mentally and physically. Cakes were eaten, wine was tasted and laughs were [email protected]

View page! Speakin’ Japanese/Korean COVID -19 useful phrases (printable sheets)

Japanese Korean SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES JAPAN 11

Miss CoCo’s curry? Try this recipe to see if it’s just as good as the real deal

STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHOJI KUDAKA, Pour the puree into a STRIPES JAPAN Recipe 5 frying pan and add he pandemic may have ruined the other ingredients 1 Fry sliced onions except ground coffee fun of dining at CoCo’s restaurants, until they begin but there’s no need to be disappoint- and vinegar. T to brown. ed. Try your hand at making CoCo’s curry on your own. The recipe below is meant to replicate your favorite CoCo’s curry sauce and, best 6 Cook that on low of all, it can be personalized with whatever heat for 10 minutes. ingredients you enjoy. This recipe is adapted 2 Add sliced carrots and from Japanese comedian Saigen Daisuke, pork, then continue who is known for trying to replicate dishes frying. from popular restaurants. Give it a try and impress your family with your homemade CoCo’s! [email protected] 7 Finish up by adding ground coffee and vinegar. Mix well. Ingredients (for two servings) 3 Add water to the pan and let the ingredients n Pork back ribs (50g) simmer for 10 minutes. n Onion (100g) n Carrot (30g) n Salad or olive oil (15cc) 8 This curry sauce is now ready to be served over rice. n Water (600cc) You can add pork , fried boneless chicken and/ n Chicken consommé (1 block) or vegetables, etc. Itadakimasu! n Fried onion (30cc) 4 Remove from heat and let the mixture cool n Curry roux block (spicy, 35g) down a little before n Curry powder (2.5cc) blending into a puree. n Sugar (2.5cc) n (5cc) View video! n Vegetable and fruit sauce semi-sweet (5cc) n White pepper (1g) n Salt (1.5g) n Ground coffee (2 pinches) n Vinegar (2.5cc) 12 STRIPES JAPAN A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 What to eat in Japan 12 unique Japanese foods you MUST try at least once! LIVE JAPAN takoyaki, okonomiyaki, shabu shabu and often. Although they are less well-known more! abroad, these foods are much more com- apanese food is a favorite for peo- Beyond these popular items is a large mon in Japan, and if you’re looking to try ple around the world, and many variety of dishes that might be consid- something truly unique, be sure to give J visitors to Japan look forward to ered unusual in the West - and as a re- these a go for a memorable dining expe- trying out popular fare like , sult they aren’t necessarily covered as rience on your next visit!

1. Fugu 2. Chinmi 3. Shirako 4. Neba Neba Fugu: you may have heard the Japa- Chinmi is the title given to select un- Shirako is a Neba neba is a unique class of Japa- nese name for the poisonous puffer fish usual Japanese that are an ac- creamy deli- nese foods that is very popular within before, as well as its infamous reputation quired taste. It’s an easy way to identify cacy that’s Japan, but that some foreigners may find for carrying the risk of death if prepared which dishes even find enjoyed dur- somewhat strange or off-putting at first. incorrectly (and, to boot, the toxin has no somewhat peculiar, as opposed to those ing the win- Many of these foods have intriguing tex- known ). foreign only to Western palates. tertime. tures, being naturally sticky or slimy, In Japan, fugu is prepared by experts Perhaps the most classic example When trans- and are often eaten over hot rice and in- who train for years on how to remove the of chinmi is uni, the delicate orange or lated di- clude things such as okra, tororo (grated fish’s highly toxic organs without con- golden-colored reproductive organs of rectly into yam), and sticky nameko mushrooms. taminating the rest of the meat. As a re- These foods owe much of their popular- the sea urchin, which may be eaten raw, English, the sult: can you guess how many people die word means “cod ity to the fact that they are seen as a re- steamed, or cooked into a creamy soup in Japan each year from fugu poisoning? ”, or storative food that has a cooling effect or pasta. A surprisingly low number: for the pe- the sperm from male cod. on the body in hot weather — perfect for Two additional examples of chinmi riod of 2005-2016, the Tokyo Metropoli- White in color and very those steamy Japanese summers. tan Government puts the total number of that might make even Japanese people soft on the palate, shirako fugu-related deaths at just 9. And yet the raise eyebrows are (mullet can be eaten raw with risk is enough to concern most! For dar- pickled in salt) and konowata (fer- a splash of , a More on Japan’s ing eaters hoping to give it a go, fugu can mented sea cucumber innards). These citrus and Sensational be enjoyed in dishes such as fugu sashi- are typically enjoyed alongside glasses dressing, or cooked ‘Neba Neba’ mi, called “tessa”; (fried fugu); of or beer, which may help the un- in a nabe dish. Dishes! and fugu hot pot, called “tecchiri”. usual flavors go down a bit more easily.

5. Natto 6. Wafu/ Yoshoku 7. Basashi 8. Motsunabe A type of neba neba food, natto is Wafu and yoshoku may seem like Basashi, or raw horse meat, is a con- Organ meats and may not be unique and popular enough to get its two types of unusual Japanese foods tentious food for some visitors to Ja- popular in some areas abroad, but in own separate description. Made of sticky to Western visitors, but both are very pan as it is not only eaten raw, but be- Japan these cuts are served up under fermented soybeans, natto has a colorful popular within Japan. cause horse meat is banned for sale for several different cooking preparations, smell that most agree is not its best char- Wafu means “Japanese-style” and human consumption in some countries with hot pot dishes being rather popu- acteristic. A polarizing food, natto has refers to dishes like pasta and pizza like the United States. lar indeed. Called motsunabe, these hot plenty of die-hard fans as well as a large prepared with local ingredients to ap- If you have no qualms about eating pots contain or soy sauce broth number of folks in Japan who would rath- peal to Japanese tastes. raw meat or horse, however, you may and a variety of other herbs or spices, er do without it. Natto is typically sold in Some examples include uni cream find that you quite enjoy basashi. The such as garlic, chive and chili pepper, individual packages which are whipped pasta and pizza topped with grated meat is soft and lean yet tender and which pair well with organ meats while with and spicy mustard using seaweed or shirasu (baby ancho- offers more protein than , while chopsticks until the mixture becomes vies). also being less fatty. In Japan, it’s covering some of their bolder fla- frothy, then poured over hot rice. Yoshoku means “Western-style typically served with soy sauce vors. Motsunabe first originated Japanese food” and include dishes like or ponzu dressing and in the Japanese food capital of curry rice, hambagu (Hamburg steak), fresh ginger or gar- , but is and (omelette rice) which are lic for garnish. now enjoyed all Love It or Hate It: not traditionally Japanese food but across Japan. How to Eat Japan’s which became popular during the Mei- Infamous ‘Natto’! ji era as Japan sought to modernize and adopt a more Western-style diet. SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES JAPAN 13

9. Nankotsu 10. Insects (Cartilage) While many in the West are writing about whether insects If you’re a fan of fried chick- might be the wonder food of the en, you’ll want to try the unique future, in Japan you can enjoy Japanese version called nan- that tradition today. Proponents kotsu, or fried chicken carti- of eating insects say that they lage. dense and crunch from are an excellent source of pro- deep frying, this dish tastes tein and vitamins that’s more great with some fresh lemon environmentally friendly than squeezed over it. eating animals. Inago is a dish of grasshop- pers, typically cooked tsuku- dani-style in soy sauce and mi- rin until they become crisp and very flavorful. In the past, inago was more commonly consumed as people would catch grasshop- pers to prevent them from dam- aging rice crops, however with the modern use of pesticides and other preventive farming tech- niques, this has become more of an uncommon . Venture into towns in agriculture areas of Yamagata, Nagano and Guma Prefectures and you will likely come across shops selling inago. Hachinoko, or bee larvae, is a delicacy from Nagano Prefec- ture and can be served candied or cooked into a savory dish over rice.

10:30 5:30 11. 12. Purple potato & Mochi is a unique Japanese other unique ice food best described as chewy pounded rice cake. In recent cream flavors years, it is becoming more well-known outside of Japan, Ice cream is a popular treat in Japan, especially creamy particular with the popularity soft serve. In addition to the of frozen mochi filled with ice usual flavors, Japan is home cream. to a slew of unique, and some- Something many visitors to times bizarre, flavors. Japan may not realize is that If you’re interested in check- mochi comes in a variety of ing out some unique Japan- different flavors. This includes Stripes Japan is A Stars and Stripes Community Publication. locations where overseas DOD personnel are located. only flavors, try murasaki-imo This newspaper is authorized for publication by the Department The appearance of advertising in this publication, including kusamochi, a somewhat grassy- (purple sweet potato), adzuki of Defense for members of the military services overseas. inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement of flavored rice cake made with red bean or miso flavored ice However, the contents of Stripes Japan are unofficial, and are those products by the Department of Defense or Stars and yomogi (mugwort plant). In cream. If you’re feeling truly not to be considered as the official views of, or endorsed by, Stripes. Products or services advertised in this publication addition, there are varieties of adventurous, be on the lookout the U.S. government, including the Department of Defense shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage mochi coated with toasted ses- for flavors like lavender, soy or the U.S. Pacific Command. As a DOD newspaper, Stripes without regard to race, color, , sex, national origin, Japan may be distributed through official channels and use age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or ame seeds or kinako, a powder sauce, and even squid appropriated funds for distribution to remote and isolated any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. made from toasted soy flour. ink! 14 STRIPES JAPAN A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020

Top 10 features of Japan trains

STORY AND PHOTOS BY IGNATIUS KOH, waiting on the platform. To fit area. Many major malls such as if you’re lucky enough to see it, . Station JAPAN TRAVEL the incredible number of people 109 and Takashimaya these helpers pop their heads 9 chimes into the trains, stations employ have basement floors that are out from a small opening be- apanese trains are mar- “pushers” to physically push strategically linked to these sta- side ticket machines to assist veled all over the world for people into trains to allow the tions’ exits to allow easy access confused commuters who press An often missed highlight Jtheir speed and efficiency. doors to close. This Japanese for commuters. This design the “Help” button. in Japan’s train stations is the However, these are only a frac- phenomenon is not to be missed comes in handy on days with unique chimes each station has tion of the train-related quirks in during peak periods. inclement weather as you will that signal an incoming train. Japan that many tourists are un- be sheltered throughout your . IC Cards This quirk sometimes allows aware of. From dedicated push- journey. 7 on vending people to know which station ers to special station chimes, . Silence is machines they are at without looking at the there’s more to Japan’s trains 3 golden signs — Station in than meets the eye! . Themed Tokyo is famous for its Astro Boy 5 train livery (an robot character born You might expect a fair Feeling thirsty but out of there) theme song. While not all amount of chaos while taking money? Now, on the platform, stations have a special chime, 1. Punctuality the train in Japan, with the coun- While you may have seen Hel- you can use your IC card to pay many other stations have more try boasting some of the busiest lo Kitty and Pokemon plastered for drinks at vending machines generic sounds such as birds train stations in over Japanese equipped with a scanner for chirping or nature sounds to cre- It’s no surprise that punctual- the world. While airplanes in re- contactless payment. In fact, ate a pleasant atmosphere. ity is at the top of this list. While that might be cent years, these there are convenience shops it is well-known that trains are on true, the bustle eye-catching de- on the platforms of certain sta- time in Japan, tourists are still in the stations signs have not tions if you want to get a quick . Shinkansen amazed when they find them- is momentarily been limited to bite. 10 cleaning staff selves exactly where they need left behind between each stop just planes. From the Anpanman to be, on time, when taking the as each train car is silent even train in , to Kumamon train. To show how serious they when filled to the brim with pas- train in Kyushu, there are sev- . Ticket barriers With impressive speeds and are about their job, train compa- sengers. There are rules that re- eral regular trains across Japan 8 are always open beautiful scenery along the way, nies hand out train delay certifi- quire mobile phones to be on si- that have special designs de- Japan’s shinkansen is a popular cates to commuters affected by lent mode and loud talking is also pending on the region. For those means of transport across the delays as a legitimate excuse for prohibited. And with most pas- hoping to catch a faster ride, a To facilitate movement dur- country for many. To make the being late. sengers compliant to the rules, sleek Neon Genesis Evangelion- ing rush hour, Japan’s ticket ride even more comfortable, you can enjoy a peaceful ride on designed shinkansen (bullet barriers are open by default to cleaning crews at Tokyo Sta- the train. train) is in service from Hakata ensure a smooth flow of passen- tion perform the “seven-minute . Station station to Shin-Osaka station un- gers in and out of the station. miracle” — a quick but compre- 2 pushers til spring 2018. This is also part of Japan’s ef- hensive cleaning of the shinkan- . Unique fort to allow quick evacuation sen cars within seven minutes to 4 station designs in case of an earthquake. How- prepare for the next ride. You’ll Japan’s infamous rush hour . Ticket ever, these barriers will close if see these housekeepers dressed is a sight to behold — people 6 machine helpers you don’t scan your IC card or sharply and getting to work in packed in trains like sardines Some of the busiest stations slot in your ticket so make sure the blink of an eye, and before with hardly any breathing space, in Japan have underground lab- you don’t forget to do so, or else you know it, the train is spar- and even more commuters yrinths that span across a huge A strange but hilarious sight you will cause a jam behind. kling clean again. SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020 A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC STRIPES JAPAN 15

Long before taking the reins at Alabama in 2007, Nick Saban was a successful college coach at LSU and before that at Michigan State. Just about the only unsuccessful thing Saban has been a part of as a head coach was his brief stint as the leader of the Miami Dolphins. He even had success in his first season as the top boss – Where did he coach?

Stripes Sports TriviaToledo of University

Answer Week of 9/21/20 - 9/27/20

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

1 Lauren of 14 15 16 fashion 6 Tread-bare 17 18 19 10 "Tip" or "rip" 20 21 22 finish 14 Honda's luxury 23 24 25 26 line 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 DID YOU 15 Not home 16 Steak prefer- 34 35 36 KNOW? ence 37 38 39 40 17 Gene carrier 19 Singer Campbell 41 42 43 44 20 Castle part alled “hinomaru” (circle of the 21 Loathsome 45 46 47 sun) or “nisshoki” (sun-mark flag), 22 Scouted for a 48 49 50 the national flag of Japan is a white heist 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 Crectangle with a red circle in the cen- 23 Roll call calls 25 Go on and on ter. The flag has embodied Japan’s other 59 60 61 27 One with a hand name, “The Land of the Rising Sun”. out 62 63 64 Keeping with the theme, the sun is im- 30 Sword fight 65 66 67 portant in Japan’s native religion, Shin- 31 Chic getaway toism, and the emperor is considered a 34 "Fringe" co- Copyright 2020 by The Puzzle Syndicate direct descendant of the sun in creator J.J. the mythology. 35 Not taboo 67 Do a host's job 29 Cemetery sight 50 Entices 37 Gravy dish 30 "Homeland" 51 Something to 38 _____-panky DOWN actress spin 40 McNally partner 1 Billiards need 32 Kind of code 52 Acknowledge 41 Letter holder 2 Masseur's target 33 Throw for a loop 54 Extend credit 43 Like "Glee" 3 Tackle box item 36 Guardian 56 "Race" anagram music 4 Breed plants 39 Popped up 57 Overdue 45 Caustic 5 Lunch meat 42 Rich soil 58 Campus house of substance 6 Rationale 44 Big success 60 To and ___ 46 Blunder follower 7 Military no-show 49 Radio knob 61 Old witch 47 Pint-sized 8 Defeated incum- the week Mi/jitsu (fruit) 実 48 Mental condition bent 50 Angler's hope 9 Salon service Answers to Last Week's Crossword: 51 Ryan's "Paper 10 Church fixture S E W S A C M E S A L S A Moon" co-star 11 Sprinter's O R E O Y O U R A D I E U Language Lesson 53 Arkin or Alda infraction D O L L E N T R A P M E N T 55 Young yak 12 Complimentary A D L I B F E A R I N T O 59 Shakespeare's 13 Mail away S E E A C I D T E S T stream 18 Go beyond, as A L L A N I N K A G O Let’s talk. 60 Hobo's ride a target E N R O U T E C A I S S O N 62 Kind of wolf 22 Porter who M I N U S N A S A L 63 Monthly budget wrote "Night I C E D T E A F I D G E T Y Week of 9/21/20 - 9/27/20 item and Day" T E D E R R A T E A M 64 It comes from 24 Holiday veggie P R E T E N S E B A D Hanashi mashoo. the heart 26 Earth-friendly G O G O C L E F P O L A R 65 Washstand activity U N I L A T E R A L P A R E vessel 27 Biblical tower S C R I P S I R I A G O G 66 Bookie's quote 28 Dark wood H E L O T S E E P L E N S

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

16 STRIPES JAPAN A STARS AND STRIPES COMMUNITY PUBLICATION 75 YEARS IN THE PACIFIC SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 1, 2020

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