A Friendly Guide to Japan’s Lively Southern Prefecture
Kochi is one of Japan’s most relaxed and welcoming prefectures, known for its dramatic nature, deep samurai history, and incredible food culture. Even if you’ve traveled around Japan before, Kochi feels refreshingly different. open, sunny, and full of local charm.
Here are the must-visit spots and local experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.
🏯 1. Kochi Castle – One of Japan’s 12 Original Castles
Kochi Castle is worth a visit even if you’ve been to Matsuyama Castle.
It’s the only castle in Japan where the entire central keep area remains intact, letting you experience an authentic Edo-period atmosphere.
Compact, beautiful, and right in the city center great for photos and an easy historical stop.
If you’re looking for an authentic Asian shopping and dining experience without leaving Japan, Nishi-Kawaguchi is the place to be!
Located just a short train ride from central Tokyo, this lively neighborhood is home to a vibrant community of people from all across Asia — and with that comes an incredible selection of restaurants, supermarkets, and shops.
Walking around Nishi-Kawaguchi feels like taking a trip across the continent. Vietnamese, Filipino, Thai, Chinese, and Korean supermarkets line the streets, packed with ingredients and snacks you won’t easily find elsewhere. Whether you’re craving fresh herbs for Vietnamese pho, authentic Korean kimchi, or specialty spices from Thailand, you’ll find it here.
Speaking of pho, I had one of the best bowls of my life right here in Nishi-Kawaguchi! The broth was rich, the noodles perfectly chewy, and the fresh herbs on top added the perfect touch. I also tried a spicy Mala soup noodle — a dish from China famous for its bold, numbing spiciness — and it was absolutely unforgettable. Every bite was an explosion of flavor.
Nishi-Kawaguchi isn’t just a place to shop — it’s a place to explore, taste, and experience the real flavors of Asia, all in one neighborhood. Whether you’re hunting for rare ingredients or just want to enjoy a delicious meal, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.
Ready for your next food adventure? Nishi-Kawaguchi is waiting!
When in Japan, there are a few things you absolutely can’t miss: sushi, ramen, and… gyoza! If you’re craving juicy, crispy, flavor-packed dumplings, look no further than Osaka Ohsho – one of Japan’s most beloved gyoza chains.
I recently visited their branch in Osaka, and let me tell you: it was love at first bite.
The Vibe
The restaurant feels casual and welcoming – the perfect spot for both solo travelers and groups. You’ll often find local office workers grabbing a quick lunch, families enjoying dinner together, or tourists like me excited to try something iconic.
What to Order
Of course, the star of the show is their gyoza (Japanese pan-fried dumplings). Their original recipe has been around since 1969, and it’s still winning hearts today. The gyoza are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfectly seasoned. One bite, and you’ll understand why Osaka Ohsho literally means “The King of Gyoza.”
I also ordered their fried rice (チャーハン) and sweet & sour pork (酢豚) – both were delicious and came in generous portions. Plus, you can often find great set menus that include gyoza, rice, soup, and a main dish, all for a very reasonable price.
Pro Tip
If you’re not confident in Japanese, don’t worry! Most locations have English menus, and the staff are super friendly. You can even just point at the pictures if you’re unsure.
Why I Recommend It
Whether you’re a foodie or just someone who wants to taste authentic Japanese flavors, Osaka Ohsho is a must-visit. It’s fast, affordable, and totally satisfying. And trust me – once you try their gyoza, you’ll dream about them long after your trip ends.
Have you ever watched a reality survival show that felt too real — where the stakes were so high and the tension so thick, you found yourself gripping the edge of your seat?
Welcome to “The Game of Blood: Escape from the Ruins”, a ruthless psychological game that’s not just another survival show — it’s an all-out war for money, trust, and survival.
What’s “The Game of Blood” All About?
In this high-octane Korean reality show, contestants are dropped into a desolate, abandoned location and forced to face off in a series of brutal challenges, mind games, and shifting alliances. The goal? Escape — and win a massive cash prize.
But this isn’t just about physical strength.
It’s about manipulation, betrayal, and psychological warfare.
One wrong move, one misplaced trust, and you’re out — or worse.
Star Power & Real-Life Soldiers
The cast is loaded with personalities you won’t forget, including:
• DEX, a Korean talent with a military background (former UDT – Korean Navy Special Forces), known for his intense presence and sharp instincts.
• Mina Fujii, the stunning Japanese actress who brings elegance and grit to the screen.
Add in a mix of sharp minds, strong bodies, and fragile alliances, and you’ve got a game that’s equal parts thrilling and terrifying.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Show
• If you loved Squid Game, Alice in Borderland, or The Genius, this show is your next obsession.
• The tension is real. The betrayals? Even more real.
• Every episode ends with a twist that’ll leave you gasping.
It’s the kind of show you’ll binge in one night — and then rewatch just to catch all the mind games.
Ready to Enter the Game?
The latest season of The Game of Blood is now streaming exclusively in Japan — and you can watch it right here:
When it comes to comfort food, stew is a universal favorite — warm, hearty, and full of flavor. But there’s one question that has sparked countless debates around kitchen tables, office lunchrooms, and cozy winter dinners:
Should stew be eaten with rice or bread?
It’s a question of culture, habit, and pure personal preference. And surprisingly, it can reveal a lot about who we are — and where we’re from.
The Case for Rice: Soaking Up Every Drop
For many, especially across Asia and parts of Africa, rice is the go-to sidekick. Its soft, neutral taste perfectly balances rich, savory stew, allowing you to soak up every last drop like a delicious sponge.
Think of Japanese beef stew over white rice, or a Filipino caldereta poured onto a steaming bed of jasmine rice. It’s not just food — it’s comfort in a bowl.
The Case for Bread: Dipping Into Heaven
But then there’s bread. Oh yes — the crusty, golden hero of the stew world. Tear off a piece of baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough, and dip it into that thick, flavorful gravy. That’s not just eating — that’s an experience.
In Europe and North America, bread often wins out. There’s something primal and satisfying about scooping stew with your hands, no utensils needed.
But Why Not Both?
Here’s a crazy thought — why choose at all? Some meals deserve a little of both. Imagine a thick Irish lamb stew with a slice of buttered bread and a spoonful of mashed potatoes or rice on the side. Fusion food at its finest.
What Does Your Choice Say About You?
Bread lovers might be more hands-on, savoring texture and that earthy crunch. Rice fans could be practical, soaking up every bit, no waste in sight.
But maybe it’s not that deep. Maybe it’s just about what feels right on a rainy evening with your favorite stew.
So what’s your pick? Bread or rice? Or are you a rebel who dips fries in stew?
Let me know in the comments — and settle this age-old debate once and for all.
Just a five-minute walk from Minami-Urawa Station, Mendokoro Harada is a ramen shop that has been making waves among food lovers. Opened on May 1, 2019—coinciding with the start of the Reiwa era—this restaurant has already earned a spot in the Tabelog Ramen EAST 100 Famous Restaurants 2024, proving its top-tier quality.
🍜 A Bowl Filled with the Owner’s Passion
Owner Takuya Harada trained for three years at the renowned Mendokoro Honda in Higashi-Jujo before setting out on his own. His dedication to ramen is evident in every bowl, captivating countless fans.
🍥 Signature Dishes
• Rich Seafood & Pork Tsukemen
Thick noodles from Sugano Seimenjo have a smooth texture, perfectly complementing the intensely flavorful seafood and pork broth.
• Light Tsukemen with Kombu Water
The noodles are soaked in kombu (kelp) water, giving them a subtle umami taste. Pairing it with duck chashu creates a delicate yet satisfying dish.
• Mini Meat Rice Bowl
Charred pork and green onions top a bowl of rice, drizzled with soy-based sauce for a fragrant, mouthwatering experience.
• Address: Minami-Urawa 2-28-13, Minami Ward, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture
• Access: About a 5-minute walk from JR Minami-Urawa Station East Exit
• Seating: 8 counter seats
• Payment: Cash only (credit cards and electronic payments not accepted)
With a deep commitment to quality and flavor, Mendokoro Harada is a hidden gem in Minami-Urawa. If you’re a ramen lover, this is one spot you won’t want to miss!
If you’re a fan of comfort food, let me introduce you to Japanese-style Hamburg steak (ハンバーグ). It’s juicy, flavorful, and coated in a rich demi-glace sauce with a hint of red wine. This dish is a favorite in Japan, often served in Western-style family restaurants, but making it at home gives it a special touch.
What is Japanese Hamburg Steak?
Unlike American hamburgers, which are usually served as patties in a bun, Japanese Hamburg steak is more like a meatloaf patty—a tender, pan-fried beef (or beef and pork) patty seasoned with onions, breadcrumbs, and milk for extra softness. It’s often topped with a savory demi-glace sauce that adds depth and umami.
My Special Red Wine Demi-Glace Sauce
To make this dish even more delicious, I made a red wine demi-glace sauce from scratch. The red wine gives it a deep, slightly tangy flavor that balances the richness of the meat. Here’s how I made it:
Ingredients for the Sauce:
• ½ cup red wine
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup demi-glace sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon ketchup
• A pinch of sugar (optional)
How to Make It:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the red wine over medium heat and let it simmer until reduced by half.
3. Simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust the taste with a little sugar if needed.
4. Pour over your freshly cooked Hamburg steak and enjoy!
Why You Should Try This Dish
This dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of juicy meat and velvety sauce pairs beautifully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even a glass of red wine. It’s a great way to experience Japanese home cooking with a Western twist!
If you love hearty meals with deep flavors, give this Japanese-style Hamburg steak a try. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Let me know in the comments what you paired it with.
Would you like to see more Japanese comfort food recipes? Let me know what dish you’d like to try next!
After days of exploration, today was all about unwinding. We started with a leisurely breakfast at our hotel’s buffet, which featured an unexpected indulgence—sparkling wine in the morning. A tempting way to begin the day, indeed.
Our main plan for the day was something we had long anticipated: a traditional Thai massage. We called the spa in the morning to make a same-day reservation, and soon after, we arrived at The Hummingbird Massage . The exterior was painted in soft pink, making it stand out charmingly on the street. We had arrived a bit early, but the staff welcomed us with tea and invited us to participate in a complimentary herbal compress workshop.
Instead of waiting until after our massage, as was customary, we decided to take part before our session. We were given full freedom to choose and mix herbs to our liking—I opted for a refreshing blend heavy on menthol, perfect for clearing the sinuses.
Then, it was time for our very first Thai massage. Often referred to as “two-person yoga,” Thai massage incorporates deep stretching and rhythmic pressure techniques. We had booked a 60-minute session for 750 THB and were led to a semi-private space, separated by a curtain. While I had imagined more extensive yoga-like stretching, in reality, those elements only lasted about 10 minutes. The rest of the session focused on oil-based massage, which was deeply relaxing but left us wishing for a bit more of the signature Thai-style movements.
Post-massage, we were served sweet tea and fresh fruit—one of those small but utterly satisfying moments that always mark the end of a great spa experience.
A Unique Culinary Experience: Crispy Fish and Green Curry with a Twist
Feeling rejuvenated, we headed out for lunch. We ordered rice noodles, deep-fried fish, and green curry—but what truly captured our attention was the sheer size of the fish. Larger than my hand, it was deep-fried to perfection, with a crisp golden exterior giving way to soft, juicy flesh inside.
Even more intriguing was the way the green curry was served—not as a side dish for rice but as a dip for the rice noodles. The curry was on the spicier side, but dipping the noodles into it mellowed the heat, creating a beautifully balanced dish. While Japan has a rich seafood culture, we rarely come across deep-fried fish of this magnitude, making it a new and exciting culinary experience.
Afternoon Serenity: Poolside Reading & Reflections on Pakistan
After lunch, we retreated to the hotel’s poolside, allowing the afternoon to slip by at a slower pace. My husband, engrossed in his latest read, had chosen a book on Pakistan—Pakistan: A Hard Country by Anatol Lieven. Written in 2011, this non-fiction work offers a deep dive into the country’s complex realities, exploring themes of history, politics, religion, and social structures.
A few key takeaways from the book:
• The Strength of Kinship: Pakistani society is deeply rooted in familial and tribal bonds, which serve as both a source of resilience and a challenge to national unity.
• The Role of Islam: While religion is a defining aspect of Pakistan’s identity, interpretations of Islam vary significantly across different regions.
• Military Influence: The military remains the most powerful institution in the country, exerting a strong influence over political affairs.
• Historical and Geopolitical Complexities: The book delves into Pakistan’s troubled relationship with India, its colonial past, and its strategic role in global politics.
Rather than portraying Pakistan as a “failed state,” Lieven presents a nuanced perspective, encouraging readers to see the country through a more informed and critical lens. It’s a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in international affairs and South Asian geopolitics.
An Evening of Celebration: A Surprise Birthday Dinner Cruise
As the sun began to set, we set off toward ICONSIAM, one of Bangkok’s most renowned shopping and entertainment complexes. Unbeknownst to my husband, I had planned a surprise: a birthday dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River.
Looking back, we seem to have a habit of taking dinner cruises during our travels—we did the same last year in Hong Kong. While perhaps it’s time to diversify our experiences, there’s something undeniably magical about dining on a boat, gliding past illuminated cityscapes.
This cruise was no exception. As we drifted along the river, we dined on a lavish buffet featuring fresh seafood, Thai specialties, and international cuisine. The highlight, beyond the food and the glowing skyline, was the onboard entertainment. A skilled DJ kept the energy high, engaging passengers by asking where they were from and then singing songs from their home countries. Guests from Russia, Indonesia, and India had their national hits performed, which sparked a lively and inclusive atmosphere.
Surprisingly, despite several Japanese guests onboard, no Japanese songs were played. It was a minor disappointment, but the overall experience more than made up for it.
As the night drew to a close, the crew presented a beautifully designed birthday cake—vividly colored and unmistakably Thai in its decorative style. My husband, delighted by the celebration, looked genuinely happy.
However, our return to ICONSIAM coincided with its 10 PM closing rush, meaning long taxi queues and heavy traffic congestion. Instead of waiting, we decided to walk a little further to find a less crowded spot for a Grab ride, which we successfully hailed in about ten minutes.
Back at the hotel, we took down the birthday balloons, marking the official end of the celebrations. Tomorrow, we fly back to Japan.
In October 2024, Ani Mru Mru, a Polish fine dining restaurant, opened its doors in Tokyo, introducing a new culinary experience to Japan. With Poland’s rich culinary traditions spanning centuries, this was a long-awaited addition to Tokyo’s diverse food scene. For someone like me, who had never encountered Polish cuisine in Japan, the excitement was immense—and let me tell you, this experience did not disappoint.
The restaurant beautifully merges Poland’s history, culture, and flavors into a modern dining experience, giving us a taste of Central Europe’s deep forests and the Baltic Sea. Let’s take a closer look at the menu and my impressions of each dish.
The Menu (October – December)
Amuse-Bouche
A bite-sized tartlet filled with smoked fish and topped with black caviar and a finishing touch of fresh dill.
My Thoughts: A delightful start to the meal. The balance of smoky fish and the burst of salty caviar, paired with the freshness of dill, instantly transported me to the Baltic Sea. It set the tone for what was to come.
Appetizer – Galaretka
Pork jelly served with green peas, pickled tomatoes, and an intense horseradish espuma.
My Thoughts: This was a beautiful reimagining of a traditional Polish cold appetizer. The jelly was rich yet light, and the horseradish espuma added a bold, sharp note that kept it from being heavy. The pickled tomato added just the right amount of tang.
Soup – Barszcz czerwony
Beetroot soup served with roasted onions, dumplings filled with beef, and a delicate consommé-style presentation.
My Thoughts: A heartwarming dish that paid homage to Poland’s classic barszcz. The beetroot was earthy and sweet, while the beef dumpling offered a savory, meaty contrast. It felt like a comforting hug on a cold day.
Seasonal Granité
Rhubarb and lime granité with lemon zest.
My Thoughts: This was the perfect palate cleanser. The combination of tart rhubarb and citrusy lime was refreshing and left me ready for the main courses.
Fish Course – Bigosek
Grilled eel and eggplant, served with saffron, cinnamon, and a 17th-century-inspired royal bigosek.
My Thoughts: A highlight of the evening. The eel was tender and smoky, pairing beautifully with the eggplant. The saffron and cinnamon lent a regal touch, and I loved how this dish reimagined historical Polish recipes in a fine dining setting.
Meat Course – Kaczka
Slow-cooked duck breast, juniper jus, root celery purée, and a garnish of pickled blackberries.
My Thoughts: This was exceptional. The duck was perfectly cooked, tender, and infused with subtle notes of juniper. The purée was velvety smooth, and the pickled blackberries added a surprising burst of acidity. A masterful dish.
Dessert – Arkas
Caramelized milk custard with sour cream and raspberry coulis.
My Thoughts:Arkas, a nod to Poland’s traditional dessert, was the perfect finale. The custard was rich and comforting, balanced by the tangy sour cream and vibrant raspberry coulis. It felt nostalgic and modern at the same time.
About the Restaurant and Chef
The name Ani Mru Mru translates to “not a word,” perhaps suggesting that words fall short in describing the experience—something I wholeheartedly agree with. The restaurant takes its inspiration from Poland’s culinary history, particularly from medieval and Renaissance traditions, which are beautifully reinterpreted for today’s fine dining standards.
The chef’s dedication to honoring Polish heritage while incorporating modern techniques is apparent in every dish. The influence of Compendium Ferculorum, a 17th-century Polish culinary text, is particularly fascinating. Each dish connects the past and present, blending nostalgia with innovation.
Final Thoughts
Ani Mru Mru is more than just a restaurant; it’s a journey through Polish history and flavor, right in the heart of Tokyo. The menu changes every two months, meaning there’s always something new to experience. For anyone curious about Polish cuisine or simply seeking a unique fine dining adventure, Ani Mru Mru is a must-visit.
I left the restaurant with a newfound appreciation for Poland’s culinary traditions, and I can’t wait to return to see what the chef creates next.
